3 series electric steering

[Malalajan]

Hi all,

I had considered it was time to trade up my 2006 320D for the latest and greatest and with a bit more cash to hand thought the 335D would be a shoe-in. However, after a test drive today, I genuinely felt that it was less engaging than my car. Looks great, went like a rocket and even sounded good but the change in steering was really noticeable, my old car definitely feels better and I would prefer not to spend tens of thousands on a car that isn't just better than mine.

Can anyone help with a solution? Alternative models? how far back in age do I need to go for a good hydraulic steered car? Is there a non-BMW that is close in feel to the older BMW? Etc?

It is a shame, as the 90 in my view is nearly perfect, even at 125k miles but the current model just isn't.

thanks

[Smuler]

Isn't the new 335D you tried AWD, that won't be as exciting as RWD so try another model , say 335i or 340 if buying new (newer).
The F generation does not have the steeeing feel of the E9xs - I really don't like them , from this perspective,compared to my E92 335i.
But then that lacked feel compared to a M.
Either go M , buy newer E90 or move on with F generation BUT get the best by going RWD , M sport, non RFT - I suggest Michelin tyres- and maybe even look at some mods for the suspension.

[Mike335i]

The change to electric steering happened early 2009, so on 58 plates, and occurred with the LCI update. The M3, 335i and 335d retained the hydraulic system until the end of the E9x run in 2012. I believe all F30s have electric.

It has been noted in various reviews that, comparatively speaking, the electric steering in the BMW is a good system, so I don't think you'll find competition that is massive better on this specific point and at this price.

So my advice would be to find an e9x 335d on a 2009-2012 plate. Bonus is that they were RWD, so none of the Xdrive drawbacks either.

[Malalajan]

Thanks, I hadn't considered the AWD would be a factor. I think I will have look for an older car for now and wait for the technology to catch up.

[Smuler]

Malalajan said:

Thanks, I hadn't considered the AWD would be a factor. I think I will have look for an older car for now and wait for the technology to catch up.

FWIW, whilst my 2004 M3 has dreadful sat nav, the I drive unit on my 2009, 59 335i is as good as - least inmho- the I drive on my current daily hack, a 2017 X1.
The 2009 got the CIC I drive, so taking Mike's advice I don't see how any of the later E9X models are really shortchanged compared to what's around now.

Only caveat is I'm not really into playing music in car, so maybe something developed from that perspective.

I'd take something like this over a F30 diesel car any day

http://usedcars.bmw.co.uk/3-Series/3.0TD-335d-Spor...