So who's buying the E90?

[solsurfr]

Just curious. With all the E90 bashing going around this forum, I would think it would make the would-be E90 buyers a little shy around here. I'll be the first to say that if I didn't buy my E46 last year, I wouldn't have a problem getting the E90 if that is the only option I had. I'd prolly wait till the XI version came out but I would be okay with that too. So spill it y'all! Are you buying? Did you already put your deposit down!!! :)

[tierfreund]

I´ll be getting an E90 (330) in December. :thumbup: Lease on my E46 is up then...

[Alex Baumann]

Buying without test driving ? Not me.

[mrbelk]

I'm 8th on the list at my local BMW Center for the E90 M3. If it's not out by the time my lease is up in March 2007, then I'll get whatever is the most powerful E90 offered.

-MrB

[Alex Baumann]

I'm 8th on the list at my local BMW Center for the E90 M3. If it's not out by the time my lease is up in March 2007, then I'll get whatever is the most powerful E90 offered.

-MrB

There are lists for a car that doesn't even exist yet ? :eek: :confused:

[mrbelk]

There are lists for a car that doesn't even exist yet ? :eek: :confused:

It's not at all unusual over here. Don't you remember before the E46 M3 came out that people were auctioning their waiting list spots on Ebay for amounts in excess of USD$5000? It cost me nothing to put my name on the list, so I'll just wait patiently until it's ready.

-MrB

[stylinexpat]

Check out the line for the new Z06 :bigpimp:

[Alex Baumann]

It's not at all unusual over here. Don't you remember before the E46 M3 came out that people were auctioning their waiting list spots on Ebay for amounts in excess of USD$5000? It cost me nothing to put my name on the list, so I'll just wait patiently until it's ready.

-MrB

Yeah, we do have similar things happening here too, but at least for cars which have been announced and maybe a few months before the production/launch.

Just found it interesting. :)

[Cliff]

Barring catastrophe, I plan to keep the E46 for a while. I'll be in the market for a second car in a couple of years, so the next gen M3 might be a candidate. At the moment, I'm leaning towards buying something less practical than that as my second car. I have no plans to replace my E46 with its direct successor.

[tierfreund]

:stupid:

Definitely not without test driving first. BMW has made the driving experience even more numb with each of the new models they've released over the past 3 years. I have no reason to believe the E90 will be any different.

You should never buy a car, especially a car that expensive, without test driving first.

I have and I would. But since the E90 will be out in May and I´ll only need to order in October, I´ll have plenty of time to test drive. And yet I´m certain I´ll be buying (leasing) an E90. The car fits my envelope of requirements so well and I just can not imagine BMW messing it up so badly, that I wouldn´t want to have one.

[Desertnate]

Not me...

When I put my E46 to pasture I am headed for less expensive, more practical car. There are many that fit this bill and are still a blast to drive.

[Alstoy]

I plan to get one in May-sight unseen. My faith is in the history of BMW. If that doen't work and I end up with a lemon, I'll just have to get another one :) I need a new car, and the E90 fits the bill.

[Blax]

I plan to get one in May-sight unseen. My faith is in the history of BMW. If that doen't work and I end up with a lemon, I'll just have to get another one :) I need a new car, and the E90 fits the bill.

Same here. My lease is up in Feb and I can extend it if I order an e90. There are no other cars out there that I like, so e90 it is.

[solsurfr]

Not me...

When I put my E46 to pasture I am headed for less expensive, more practical car. There are many that fit this bill and are still a blast to drive.
I've only had my car a year and am leaning towards this as well but I thoroughly enjoy my E46XI very much. Our 2nd car will be a Honda Pilot (my wife's car is a Mazda Protege) so we at least have a car that can carry more than 2 pieces of luggage :). Who knows though, in 7-8 years when I'm ready to retire my E46, I may take another look at the E90 or the redesign that will be coming soon after :dunno:.

[gojira-san]

I have no immediate purchase plans.

When the time comes to swap the E46 I will check out the E90, but I might look for a clean used E46/E36/E30; however, the E46 is not the DD so it could be around for a very long time. The E39 is the DD and I expect to get a few more years out of it with no problems, but I would probably replace it with another E39 or maybe an E38.

The more electronic whizz-bang things I see on the new cars, the less I like them. Probably because I work in the electronic whizz-bang area... :rofl: I think that's why I like my Jeep - I can see all the parts and figure out what they all do (or aren't doing) at a given time.

[325SMG]

It's not at all unusual over here. Don't you remember before the E46 M3 came out that people were auctioning their waiting list spots on Ebay for amounts in excess of USD$5000? It cost me nothing to put my name on the list, so I'll just wait patiently until it's ready.

-MrB

But I hear the E90 M3 may only be available with SMG. Seeing as you elected for 6sp on your 545, would you want an SMG M3 over a traditional manual gearbox?

[juansego]

Buying without test driving ? Not me.

Same here

By the way, the press presentation of the E90 is taking place here in Spain, next weekend I'll try to take some pictures, cold permitting (-10ºC in that part of Spain). Anyway, that means that we'll be reading plenty of stuff about the E90 in the coming weeks.

Bye, adiós :)

[adc]

I'm waiting for BMW to announce plans for the E90 M3. I need to know the specs and whether they will offer a 4 door version or not. I may relent on the 4 door thing because in a few years my son will not be so small anymore.

But no go if no manual tranny. Not in an M3.

Of course, if they hike the price sky-high, I may have to wait a couple more years for an off-lease car...

adc
03 330 ZHP

[beewang]

You haven't paid any attention to their recent history, have you? Read any of the reviews for the 5, 6, and 7 series? Wonder why they're not winning the comparo tests like they used to?

Whatever that means... :rolleyes:

Well... I guess its like what they say... "Opinions are like a$$holes... everybody's got one.."

I own an E39 as well as E60, The E60 (in this a$$hols opinion) is a Superior product over the E39 by far.

Yes!! Put me down for a E90 335cic :D I'd buy the car sight unseen, as all 13 other BMW's I've purchased. They have yet to dissapoint me :thumbup:

beewang :bigpimp:

[snowshoe427]

Probably not. I'm presently leaning towards a Legacy 2.5 GT 5 speed wagon or a Mini Cooper S to replace the 99 328.

[mrbelk]

But I hear the E90 M3 may only be available with SMG. Seeing as you elected for 6sp on your 545, would you want an SMG M3 over a traditional manual gearbox?

Yes.

When I had to have my ED order in for my 545, SMG wasn't available, and there was no way I was going to get a slushbox. I have since driven a Z4 with the non-M SMG system and must say that I love the concept. I can only imagine that the SMGIII system is that much better. I will say that one must drive the SMG vehicle like a manual to get the most out of it; feathering the throttle on upshifts, etc.

Plus, the SMG systems on the "M" cars are made by a completely different manufacturer than the SMG systems on the non-M cars.

I read somewhere that Panke or one of the BMWAG big-wigs admitted that they would have been better off not even giving customers the option of running the SMG in an "auto" mode, given all of the criticisms of the jerkiness in auto mode. I can say that were I to get a new M3 with SMG, that I would never run it in auto mode.

-MrB

[Alstoy]

You haven't paid any attention to their recent history, have you? Read any of the reviews for the 5, 6, and 7 series? Wonder why they're not winning the comparo tests like they used to?

We could argue this all day long. We could site stats on both sides, but as Bee says, it's just an opinion. I base mine on my limited 10 years of owning a BMW, and that of my friends. Yes I do have a friend that has had a bad experience with his 7. He is a case-in-pont. His 2003 had a lot of electrical problems, BMW stepped up and replaced it with a 2004 that caught on fire as he was driving it home from the dealer. BMW stepped up and replaced it with a 2005. He has owned BMWs for about 30 years, and will not give up.

I guess I'm the same way. At the end of the day, it's up to you what you put between the road and your a$$ :) .

[Desertnate]

I've only had my car a year and am leaning towards this as well but I thoroughly enjoy my E46XI very much. Our 2nd car will be a Honda Pilot (my wife's car is a Mazda Protege) so we at least have a car that can carry more than 2 pieces of luggage :). Who knows though, in 7-8 years when I'm ready to retire my E46, I may take another look at the E90 or the redesign that will be coming soon after :dunno:.

Those are my thoughts too. We now have a Toyota Sequoia which is our family hauler/tower/offroader, but I need something more practicle.

By the time I retire my E46 my oldest will probably be taller than I am and headed for college and my youngest will be an adolescent. I will need more room and thus a slightly bigger car. I love my E46 dearly, but I would like to spend more of my money elsewhere rather than maintaining my car. It's worth every dollar, but I just don't want to continually spend that much money anymore on a car.

[KoenG]

I've ordered one previous week. It's a E90 320d with performance line that will get delivered during the second half of March.

Since it's leasing and only have to use it for 3 years and 100.000 miles, I can afford to order one without a testdrive. I ordered the first 150hp 320d in Belgium also without a testdrive, so, I wasn't dissapointed then.

The first alternative is an Audi A6, which drives incredibly good by the way, but that is too much a vessel to me, not enough of a sport sedan.

[Technic]

We could argue this all day long. We could site stats on both sides, but as Bee says, it's just an opinion. I base mine on my limited 10 years of owning a BMW, and that of my friends. Yes I do have a friend that has had a bad experience with his 7. He is a case-in-pont. His 2003 had a lot of electrical problems, BMW stepped up and replaced it with a 2004 that caught on fire as he was driving it home from the dealer. BMW stepped up and replaced it with a 2005. He has owned BMWs for about 30 years, and will not give up.

I guess I'm the same way. At the end of the day, it's up to you what you put between the road and your a$$ :) .

Oooookkkk... :rolleyes:

[Jalli]

The New E90 comes home as soon as one gets to my dealer..

[LeucX3]

I'm going to break a tradition i've had every year since i've been in San Diego and not buy a new car in 2005. :rolleyes:

[Spectre]

Not I. I'm looking the other direction in BMW's line -- perhaps an E30. :D

[jetstream23]

I'm just buying one of the last e46 330i ZHP's....I'm getting it below invoice and the design and functions have had most of the bugs worked out over the years. I'll wait a couple of years for the fanfare (and pricing) to calm down on the e90 and then get the improved/facelifted/more standard features/ZHP-whatever version of the 3rd year e90. That's my plan and I'm stickin' to it.

[jetstream23]

Oooookkkk... :rolleyes:


Electrical problems cause new car to be replaced?? Replacement car catches on fire??? And you STILL go back for more??? Maybe the BMW gods are trying to tell him something....like go with an A8.

[jetstream23]

I've ordered one previous week. It's a E90 320d with performance line that will get delivered during the second half of March.

Since it's leasing and only have to use it for 3 years and 100.000 miles, I can afford to order one without a testdrive. I ordered the first 150hp 320d in Belgium also without a testdrive, so, I wasn't dissapointed then.

The first alternative is an Audi A6, which drives incredibly good by the way, but that is too much a vessel to me, not enough of a sport sedan.


What has the ordering process/wait list process been like on the e90? Do you just walk in and say, "Can I get on the list for an e90 at full MSRP?" Are dealers asking for higher prices? When do you pick options? Just curious about the buying process for a car that has yet to appear...

[commander_crash]

i'll be buying one. I'm almost done with my 2002 325xi - it's had lots of issues. So I'll try and buy another 325xi in the 2006 model or 2007 model.

[xspeedy]

I'll probably be going for an ED on one (if offered) anywhere from August - October. I have an X3 now, and can't wait to go back to a 330.

[mtmnet]

I am planning on one, however their is a slight chance that I will end up wth an Audi S4 if the right deal comes along.

I'm hoping the E90 will be and feel like a bigger car. Something close to the E39 with Sport Package which is one of my favorites. The E60 does not do anything for in the looks department.

....also tempted to go with an E46 with the Performance Package...beautiful car with a nicer interior then the E90 IMHO.

[blueguydotcom]

Just curious. With all the E90 bashing going around this forum, I would think it would make the would-be E90 buyers a little shy around here. I'll be the first to say that if I didn't buy my E46 last year, I wouldn't have a problem getting the E90 if that is the only option I had. I'd prolly wait till the XI version came out but I would be okay with that too. So spill it y'all! Are you buying? Did you already put your deposit down!!! :)


it will have to look incredible and drive even better...i doubt either thing will happen. my 330i feels fat, wobbly and slow to me, so I have a feeling I'm cutting the pork and looking for something smaller and more nimble in 2006 when the bimmer's lease is up.

if bmw would give me an m-powered 1, I'd be happy. for a time...

[blueguydotcom]

I am planning on one, however their is a slight chance that I will end up wth an Audi S4 if the right deal comes along.

I'm hoping the E90 will be and feel like a bigger car. Something close to the E39 with Sport Package which is one of my favorites. The E60 does not do anything for in the looks department.

....also tempted to go with an E46 with the Performance Package...beautiful car with a nicer interior then the E90 IMHO.


Wow, you want something bigger than an e46? Egad, it's already a fat cow!

And if you want a 330i perf pack, I've got a 2003 with xenon, leather, moon in silver gray with 24k miles. it can be yours in may of 06 (maybe sooner for the right price... :) )

[dynosor]

The New E90 comes home as soon as one gets to my dealer..

With such conviction, I bet it will have a 3 liter engine. (Jalli currently drives a 325)

[jetstream23]

Wow, you want something bigger than an e46? Egad, it's already a fat cow!

And if you want a 330i perf pack, I've got a 2003 with xenon, leather, moon in silver gray with 24k miles. it can be yours in may of 06 (maybe sooner for the right price... :) )

You guys really feel that an e46 330i is a fat cow? Why is that? I think its rather small and somewhat nimble. Is it the weight or size you're talking about? Because if you put someone in the back seat and tell them you're looking for a SMALLER car they'd think you're crazy !

[wag-zhp]

You guys really feel that an e46 330i is a fat cow? Why is that? I think its rather small and somewhat nimble. Is it the weight or size you're talking about? Because if you put someone in the back seat and tell them you're looking for a SMALLER car they'd think you're crazy !
Some of the guys that think their 330 w/zhp is a slow fat pig would likely complain even if they had a 600hp Lotus Elise. Yes there are faster cars available, for less money, than a BMW. If someone is concerned about 0-60 or 1/4 mile times a BMW is not the most cost effective choice. That person should be shoping for a Mustang or WRX type vehicle.

Personally, I'm planning to wait for a 4 door M3 version of the E90. If that doesn't materialize I may have to shop another manufacturer.... I love the way BMWs drive, but you have to admit that the other manufacturers are getting pretty close to matching what BMWs have to offer.

[KoenG]

What has the ordering process/wait list process been like on the e90? Do you just walk in and say, "Can I get on the list for an e90 at full MSRP?" Are dealers asking for higher prices? When do you pick options? Just curious about the buying process for a car that has yet to appear...

Well, I live in Belgium in Europe, and here we don't talk about MSRP. The list price is the highest price the dealer can ask for it, never a car is sold above list price. In the contrary, already now, you'll get a reduction of 6% on this list price. When I order here in Belgium, the process is "make it for this order". I assume in the States that it's more like, "produce it and then the potential buyers can bid".

Besides, I'll lease the car, all I did was go to my fleet manager and told him: "I want an e90 320d in Arktis silver with a performance line and a hands free carset for my Nokia". Then he said: "ok, we'll place the order via our leasing company and they'll send you a mail two weeks befor the actual delivery of the car". Nothing more simple than this!

[Spectre]

You guys really feel that an e46 330i is a fat cow? Why is that? I think its rather small and somewhat nimble. Is it the weight or size you're talking about? Because if you put someone in the back seat and tell them you're looking for a SMALLER car they'd think you're crazy !Because if you look back in the BMW family, you'll see that the 3er has been getting progressively larger/heavier.

[SARAFIL]

Yeah, we do have similar things happening here too, but at least for cars which have been announced and maybe a few months before the production/launch.

Just found it interesting. :)

We've had a order bank for the E60 M5 and the M6 for the past two years or so. In fact, I think we wrote our first M6 order before it was even confirmed that BMW would come out with a new 6-series!

[SARAFIL]

I'm pretty sure there will be an E90 in our family within the next year-- undecided between the 325i or 325xi, and as to whether it will compliment or replace the E46.

[icky]

i would be getting one if they offered an xi version. but i was told the xi wont be available for the first year or two.
so instead, i think ill just get an e46 330xi in may when my current warranty expires for my 325.

the alaskan winters are just too much of a pain not to get an xi.

[SARAFIL]

i would be getting one if they offered an xi version. but i was told the xi wont be available for the first year or two.
so instead, i think ill just get an e46 330xi in may when my current warranty expires for my 325.

the alaskan winters are just too much of a pain not to get an xi.

SOP for the 325xi/330xi will be September or October of this year-- not several years away!

[icky]

oh my really?
my dealer told me a year or two.. hmm... maybe ill just wait then. thats some good news!

[blueguydotcom]

You guys really feel that an e46 330i is a fat cow? Why is that? I think its rather small and somewhat nimble. Is it the weight or size you're talking about? Because if you put someone in the back seat and tell them you're looking for a SMALLER car they'd think you're crazy !

It's the size AND the weight. I put 6 footers in the back. Nobody complains. My closest friend is 6'3" and he sits in the back when our female friends are in the car. Never heard a complaint. not that i care...he's a passenger and they're least important people in my car.

As for the weight, egad the e46 is a hefty machine. If the e90 is bigger, I'll most likely pass. That's way too heavy of a car.

As for nimble driving, honestly, my fwd protege ES feels more nimble and tossable than my 330i perf pack.

This may sound like sacrilege but Saturn's Sky seems to be calling my name. Mazda, hopefully, will release a new miata soon that will dissuade me from buying a <gulp> GM. Small, nimble, decent engine...my goals for the next car. Or perhaps I'll just dump the protege soon and buy a 99 miata manual. :dunno:

[blueguydotcom]

Some of the guys that think their 330 w/zhp is a slow fat pig would likely complain even if they had a 600hp Lotus Elise. Yes there are faster cars available, for less money, than a BMW. If someone is concerned about 0-60 or 1/4 mile times a BMW is not the most cost effective choice. That person should be shoping for a Mustang or WRX type vehicle.

Personally, I'm planning to wait for a 4 door M3 version of the E90. If that doesn't materialize I may have to shop another manufacturer.... I love the way BMWs drive, but you have to admit that the other manufacturers are getting pretty close to matching what BMWs have to offer.


It's not about the accleration but the feel of the car in corners at speed. The WRX in corners feels like what it is...a heavy turbo econo car saddled with a crappy AWD system. Haven't driven the new mustang yet but it's a behemoth compared to the e46, so I doubt it's gonna feel any lighter of foot.

Yes, a 4 door m3 would be nice. the zhp was the closest i could find ...gorgeous exterior, beautiful interior, perfect cockpit but lacking the razor sharp handling and exceptional powertrain of an m.

[swchang]

It's the size AND the weight. I put 6 footers in the back. Nobody complains. My closest friend is 6'3" and he sits in the back when our female friends are in the car. Never heard a complaint. not that i care...he's a passenger and they're least important people in my car.

As for the weight, egad the e46 is a hefty machine. If the e90 is bigger, I'll most likely pass. That's way too heavy of a car.

As for nimble driving, honestly, my fwd protege ES feels more nimble and tossable than my 330i perf pack.

This may sound like sacrilege but Saturn's Sky seems to be calling my name. Mazda, hopefully, will release a new miata soon that will dissuade me from buying a <gulp> GM. Small, nimble, decent engine...my goals for the next car. Or perhaps I'll just dump the protege soon and buy a 99 miata manual. :dunno:

I agree, Miata will be my next car. Light, small, very tossable. But as for the E46 being a fat heavy pig, what cars are there with reasonably powerful engines and some modicum of luxury gadgetry that weigh less and can still transport 4-5 people (at one time)?

[RandyB]

Barring catastrophe, I plan to keep the E46 for a while. I'll be in the market for a second car in a couple of years, so the next gen M3 might be a candidate. At the moment, I'm leaning towards buying something less practical than that as my second car. I have no plans to replace my E46 with its direct successor.

Ditto what Cliff3 said... I'll be looking for a less than practical car in a few years for my second car, and the E90 M3 is on the short list so far. I'll keep my '03 330i for the daily grind and replace the '98 SVT Mustang with something fast and fun.

In no particular order:

C6 Z06 (500hp)

I've never owned a Corvette, but came close with the C5 Z06. The interior is what kept me away, and some other fit and finish issues that should not be present on a $50k car. I'll take another look, but the price may be more than I want to pay. But for 500hp/7 liters, titanium connecting rods and CNC ported heads, it may be worth it.

SVT Mustang (to be shown by Ford in March - 450 hp?)

An all-aluminum 5.4 3V engine with the Ford GT supercharger should find its way into this car, along with the all new chassis. I'm hoping that SVT will also focus on better materials for some of the interior and aluminum for the suspension components to help with weight. It should make at least 450hp with this engine.

E90 M3 (400hp?)

The new car with a 400hp 4.0 liter V8 will be hard to resist. And there are no questions in my mind about the build quality of BMW, relative to the other two cars listed at least. But I must be able to get it in Electric Red - that is the deal breaker.

It will most likely come down between the Mustang and the BMW.

[Jamman]

I am waiting for the E90 M3 Vert.

[anon]

if the e90 m3 only comes in SMG, i might have to give up RWD and go with the next S4. i saw it this week at the la auto show, pretty nice, better interior than the e90, comes in manual, four doors. only issue is it's not RWD...

[Cliff]

{snippped}
<snippped>C6 Z06 (500hp)
<snippped></snippped></snippped>{snippped}
<snippped><snippped> SVT Mustang (to be shown by Ford in March - 450 hp?)
<snippped></snippped></snippped></snippped>{snippped}
<snippped><snippped><snippped> E90 M3 (400hp?)
<snippped></snippped></snippped></snippped></snippped>{snippped}
<snippped><snippped><snippped><snippped> My list is similar to yours, but a Porsche, either a 911S or the Boxster coupe, would replace the Mustang in my list, and depending on the pricing for the Z06, I'll consider a regular Corvette too (with the Z51 option) since 400HP is nothing to sneeze at. I suspect I won't want to pay the kind of money necessary for a Porsche, but we'll see how the finances look in a couple of years. A desire for variety will likely steer me away from another Bimmer in favor of a Corvette.
</snippped></snippped></snippped></snippped>

[mustang]

Will get E90 Conv when the Sport (UK) model is out.

[ObD]

:hi:

TiAg/Blk, Ti trim, manual, SP, PP, Htd Seats, Sat Radio Prep

[Sean]

I don't foresee myself buying one. If Acura offers the TL with the AWD system from the RL in 06 that's where I'll be. It is a lot of car for the money and reliability is not an issue.

[xspeedy]

I don't foresee myself buying one. If Acura offers the TL with the AWD system from the RL in 06 that's where I'll be. It is a lot of car for the money and reliability is not an issue.

Reliability is a non-issue, but handling sure is. That is why people on this board don't drive Camrys.

I drove a TL, and personally, the handling of my X3 is better than the TL. And surprisingly, my X3 doesn't dive as much under braking.

Hondas and Acuras used to be great fun, but they have become very soft. Everything rolls like silly, and squats/dives like an old Buick. Makes me car sick.

[xspeedy]

:hi:

TiAg/Blk, Ti trim, manual, SP, PP, Htd Seats, Sat Radio Prep

I didn't think there was Titanium trim. I think you get get Aluminum.

[AF]

I am sure I will own an E90 ... I haven't decided what my replacement will be for my Audi since that is the car I am getting rid of next but the E90 is on the list...

As far as a replacement for the RX8, the E90 is also on that list .... it's only a matter of time when I get one but I might go through a few other cars first:dunno:

[BillKach]

Buying without test driving ? Not me.

Every bimmer I have ever bought (1997 Z3 2.8, 2001 330Cic, 2004 545i, 2005 645Cic) was unavailable for a test drive when I put in my order and paid my deposit.
In my experience, if you want to most coveted new models its a chance you may have to take. I certainly understand that doing this is uncomfortable for some people but IMO it all comes down to the brand. I feel comfortable buying a car I have never even seen from BMW.

[AF]

Every bimmer I have ever bought (1997 Z3 2.8, 2001 330Cic, 2004 545i, 2005 645Cic) was unavailable for a test drive when I put in my order and paid my deposit.
In my experience, if you want to most coveted new models its a chance you may have to take. I certainly understand that doing this is uncomfortable for some people but IMO it all comes down to the brand. I feel comfortable buying a car I have never even seen from BMW.
My father who is a major car fanatic always buys his cars without test driving them ... I always tell him we MUST test drive the car so he'll tell me to test drive it and let him know how it is ... the thing is he is not brand loyal either so all of his cars are different manufacturer's ...

[RandyB]

My list is similar to yours, but a Porsche, either a 911S or the Boxster coupe, would replace the Mustang in my list, and depending on the pricing for the Z06, I'll consider a regular Corvette too (with the Z51 option) since 400HP is nothing to sneeze at. I suspect I won't want to pay the kind of money necessary for a Porsche, but we'll see how the finances look in a couple of years. A desire for variety will likely steer me away from another Bimmer in favor of a Corvette.
</snippped></snippped></snippped></snippped>

Good point about the Z51 Corvette, Cliff. That is a great value for the money and 400hp is definitely nothing to sneeze at. I actually like the looks of it overall more than the Z06 so far.

[jetstream23]

I agree, Miata will be my next car. Light, small, very tossable. But as for the E46 being a fat heavy pig, what cars are there with reasonably powerful engines and some modicum of luxury gadgetry that weigh less and can still transport 4-5 people (at one time)?

I agree. Doesn't the 530i have the same 225 HP engine as the 330i AND its about 200 lbs. heavier? Isn't this an even fatter cow??? And with a fat $50K+ price tag???

[andy_thomas]

It's the size AND the weight. I put 6 footers in the back. Nobody complains. My closest friend is 6'3" and he sits in the back when our female friends are in the car. Never heard a complaint. not that i care...he's a passenger and they're least important people in my car.

As for the weight, egad the e46 is a hefty machine. If the e90 is bigger, I'll most likely pass. That's way too heavy of a car.

If the car is bigger, its weight is not necessarily higher. The average weight gain of the E90 over the E46 is around zero; and indeed most E60 variants are lighter than their forebears. The best-selling E90 models clock in at either side of 3,000 lb, or lighter than practically all of the competition.

[deb]

I just placed an order for a 325I (March Production...I'm brave)

Graphite/terra/aluminum
Sport Package/Steptronic/Adaptive Steer/Xenons

PS-For those SOCAL types...try Franco at Santa Barbara Autogroup

[Spiderm0n]

My father who is a major car fanatic always buys his cars without test driving them ... I always tell him we MUST test drive the car so he'll tell me to test drive it and let him know how it is ... the thing is he is not brand loyal either so all of his cars are different manufacturer's ...

but he is only making an 18 month investment in the vehicle right?

[pharding]

I will be paying the down payment for my son's 325 e90. Both of us really like my 545 e60. It is a great car. The e90 will likely be a fantastic car.

[juansego]

I´m waiting for the 323i (2,5 l. 177hp, launched in the 523i, not sold in the US), the new six seem promising, according to a local dealer orders can be placed from June, production starts in September.

After a test drive, of course :)

[Lanc3r]

Im waiting for the E96 :)

[solsurfr]

I will be paying the down payment for my son's 325 e90. Both of us really like my 545 e60. It is a great car. The e90 will likely be a fantastic car.
Will you adopt me? :bigpimp:

[cwsqbm]

I'm 8th on the list at my local BMW Center for the E90 M3. If it's not out by the time my lease is up in March 2007, then I'll get whatever is the most powerful E90 offered.

-MrB

I asked my dealer to be on the list of the M3 3er that replaces the E90 M3, but he just thinks I'm a little :loco: :rofl:.

Just kidding, I think the E90 sedan is growing on me, especially since it has some features I want (adaptive cruise control for example). I'll have to wait to see it in person.

[Roadhawk]

I'm not in the market for a new vehical - nor do I expect to be anytime soon. I supose an E90 might be in the mix if I were looking (wife insists on 4 door sedan type as much as I would love another go cart like 2 seater :bigpimp: ). Still to me - bigger isn't better. I like a smaller - more nimble car - so the new 3 being larger doesn't apeal. I'm glad we got the 330 ZHP. Some say bloated & heavy etc - I understand...but really for what it is it is quite nimble and sized right - IMO. All that being said it seems as thogh the new e90 3 will be a very fine auto with great features - and most importantly - it is said to drive very well. Also - I can't imagine (and would never) purchase a vehical without a test drive (or ussually several).

[wheel-man]

have to say i like the e90's styling... will be definitely looking into the m3 version for euro delivery.

[fidozoom]

i plan to buy one next year (2006) and take delivery in May 2006. Do you think they would have gotten around ot fixing the bugs in the first releases by then? I mean would I escape the first model year curse?

[Clarke]

.... it's only a matter of time when I get one but I might go through a few other cars first:dunno:A few dozen?;) -----(all in envious fun:stickpoke)

[bunghole]

Scheduled for April Production/May delivery. 330 w/prem sports pckg heated seats auto sapphire black with terra. Can't wait

[Bimmer06]

I am placing my order next week. 330i with sport package. I am still debating whether to go with Sparkling Graphite/Beige interior or Arctic/Black interior. I am leaning towards the SG.

[AF]

A few dozen?;) lol ... pretty fun (and maybe true :eek: )

[solsurfr]

i plan to buy one next year (2006) and take delivery in May 2006. Do you think they would have gotten around ot fixing the bugs in the first releases by then? I mean would I escape the first model year curse?
Consider yourself a beta-tester for the rest of us :) .

[BMW_Brand]

But I hear the E90 M3 may only be available with SMG. Seeing as you elected for 6sp on your 545, would you want an SMG M3 over a traditional manual gearbox?


If this is true (which I hope it is not), goodbye BMW. :cry:

[woohoo]

My lease ends in 13 months. I want another BMW but nothing in their lineup really appeals to me.

E90: Not sure about a first-year run of a new model. It looks ok but I will need to drive it.
Z4: Maybe. A bit unpractical, but there will probably be some really, really good deals. Fun to drive with the top down.
X3: Not interested in a SAV, but there will probably be some good deals. Lots of car for me.

[psychrunner]

Scheduled for April Production/May delivery. 330 w/prem sports pckg heated seats auto sapphire black with terra. Can't wait
Can a e90 actually be ordered? I have talked to my dealer several times and he has not called to mention anythng about ordering. Only that they may have some in for test drives in May. Maybe he's so busy selling to others that they don't need the business.

[bmw_scal]

Yes. You should be able to order E90.
I ordered a 325i last Tuesday. :)

[sun]

Count me in next year. I'm ordering a 325i toward the end of the '06 run or the beginning of the '07 run. Can't wait for the options sheet and the price list, but I'll prolly have mine with Steptronic, Premium Package, Xenons, PDC, and Navigation (despite iDrive :mad: ).

My E46 lease is up in Feb '07 and I have no intention of keeping it as it is a South African unit (plus it needed warranty work at just 1,000 miles). As for my other car (Ford) it is a total piece of junk (not even worth trading) and needs to be retired when I get the E90.

I may consider ED - the question is financing, as my credit is still recovering from a financial catastrophe several years back and I may not qualify for BMWFS financing. I'll see what I can do there. But I won't let a little thing like less-than-perfect credit keep me from another BMW.

[Chris90]

At least based on looks, I'll buy this any day:

http://images.330i.net/2006_IS/2006-IS-Front.jpg

before this ugly beast:

http://home.arcor.de/richter-ilmenau/img_1520.jpg

Can't imagine paying $45k for that thing.

[xspeedy]

I'm sure you wouldn't want the IS either if it only came with wheels off a 1985 Civic.

[RichReg]

:confused: Does anyone know what the upcharge is if you order a special exterior color that is not regularly available? I can't believe they removed Silver grey, which I think very many people have ordered on both the E46 AND the E60. This lousy selection of colors really pisses me off....

R.R.

[fidozoom]

At least based on looks, I'll buy this any day:

http://images.330i.net/2006_IS/2006-IS-Front.jpg

before this ugly beast:

http://home.arcor.de/richter-ilmenau/img_1520.jpg

Can't imagine paying $45k for that thing.

I really don't see why people seem to like the lexus IS - maybe its just a photo but it looks so dull - like someone took a piece of sheetmetal and cut it while watching star wars or something - the car has absolutely no character and to me is just a overpriced toyota.

[CoasterLonghorn]

At least based on looks, I'll buy this any day:

http://images.330i.net/2006_IS/2006-IS-Front.jpg

before this ugly beast:

http://home.arcor.de/richter-ilmenau/img_1520.jpg

Can't imagine paying $45k for that thing.

Modded versus stock. that's an equal comparison if I ever saw one.

[Chris90]

:confused: Does anyone know what the upcharge is if you order a special exterior color that is not regularly available? I can't believe they removed Silver grey, which I think very many people have ordered on both the E46 AND the E60. This lousy selection of colors really pisses me off....

R.R.

$2000 I think. You might see more colors the 2nd year though.

[Chris90]

Modded versus stock. that's an equal comparison if I ever saw one.

It's like comparing Brooke Burke in Maxim to Carmen Diaz in the morning without makeup. ;)

You gotta admit, that is one ugly pic, the E90.

[CoasterLonghorn]

Although still not favorable for the E90, this is a much more valid comparison....

http://www.houstonthrills.com/stuff/compare1.jpg

http://www.houstonthrills.com/stuff/compare2.jpg

[equipto76]

Just got confirmation that I'll be the proud fater of a new E90 on May 9th in Munchen. Monaco Blue/Black/Aluminum with every feature (even Active Steering after much deliberation and lots of time in a 545 Sport) except for Park Distance Sensors. Those things might make sense for something like a UPS truck but if I can't back up or park a car this size without incessant beeping I should have my license shredded.

-> You guys are right. That is a terrible picture of the E90 in the snow. It's got to be the lighting because there are much sexier pictures out there. Personally I love the look of the E90 but I hardly ever see that side of the car. I actually like the new interior and love the technology and guaranteed handling (even without a test-drive).

[LarryN]

Just got confirmation that I'll be the proud fater of a new E90 on May 9th in Munchen. Monaco Blue/Black/Aluminum with every feature (even Active Steering after much deliberation and lots of time in a 545 Sport) except for Park Distance Sensors. Those things might make sense for something like a UPS truck but if I can't back up or park a car this size without incessant beeping I should have my license shredded.

-> You guys are right. That is a terrible picture of the E90 in the snow. It's got to be the lighting because there are much sexier pictures out there. Personally I love the look of the E90 but I hardly ever see that side of the car. I actually like the new interior and love the technology and guaranteed handling (even without a test-drive).


Whatchu talkin' bout Willis? e90 ED slots are not even available yet. You can only request a date, and if you did get one on May 9th, you'd probably be one the first delivery for a US e90. I have requested a delivery date of 5/25, and the order was accepted by BMW. Since there are no US ED slots announced or available yet, my delivery date (although I'm told 90% sure) is not definitive.

BTW, I also confirmed that nothing has been told to the dealerships at all regarding non-availability o the 330i ZSP package. My order was accepted with the sport package. :thumbup: So, glad to have squashed that rumor....

[Alstoy]

[QUOTE=equipto76]Just got confirmation that I'll be the proud fater of a new E90 on May 9th in Munchen. Monaco Blue/Black/Aluminum with every feature (even Active Steering after much deliberation and lots of time in a 545 Sport) except for Park Distance Sensors. Those things might make sense for something like a UPS truck but if I can't back up or park a car this size without incessant beeping I should have my license shredded.
QUOTE]

Congrats! What made you choose Monaco blue? I can't seem to find any pictures (other than that one in the snow).

[Alstoy]

[QUOTE=LarryN]Whatchu talkin' bout Willis? e90 ED slots are not even available yet. You can only request a date, and if you did get one on May 9th, you'd probably be one the first delivery for a US e90. I have requested a delivery date of 5/25, and the order was accepted by BMW. Since there are no US ED slots announced or available yet, my delivery date (although I'm told 90% sure) is not definitive.
QUOTE]


I have had a confirmed May date for about two weeks. I am considering changing it by a few days, but will still have a May date.

[LarryN]

I have had a confirmed May date for about two weeks. I am considering changing it by a few days, but will still have a May date.

There are no ED slots available yet from BMW for US consumption, and I've been told definitively that nobody in the US has a confirmed date for an ED e90. However, you can only request a date right now, but you only have a fairly good shot at getting it. I just verified that this morning. BMWNA knows that they will be available beginning early May, and will accept orders for ED, but can't confirm a thing until Munich releases ED allocations to the US (different from dealership allocations).

Oh, I've also been told to not book a flight or hotel yet, based on it not being 100% definitive.

[boifromtroy]

Well I just ordered my 325i yesterday...It goes into production the first week in April and should arrive stateside in early May--or so they say! Monaco Blue with Beige Leather interior, Walnut trim, steptronic, parking control and power seats for me.

It'll be nice to get rid of my Celica!

[dean330i]

Modded versus stock. that's an equal comparison if I ever saw one.
not to mention ,with those rims its the 325 ,which will go for around 32000.

[RichReg]

There are no ED slots available yet from BMW for US consumption, and I've been told definitively that nobody in the US has a confirmed date for an ED e90. However, you can only request a date right now, but you only have a fairly good shot at getting it. I just verified that this morning. BMWNA knows that they will be available beginning early May, and will accept orders for ED, but can't confirm a thing until Munich releases ED allocations to the US (different from dealership allocations).

Oh, I've also been told to not book a flight or hotel yet, based on it not being 100% definitive.

:yikes: WHAT?? How can they give you the runaround like that???? I have been on the phone with the E.D. department at least once every two weeks since December and not once have they given me the slightest hint of a problem with a May delivery.

If BMW thinks they can take a customer's money for E.D. and then say:
"Oh, but we're not exactly sure when you can go pick it up on your European vacation that you spent MONTHS planning, so don't set anything in stone just yet", then they are just asking for trouble. When E.D. allocation is being allowed & given to the dealers right away, there's no half-way. Those orders are for a car that someone is going to use on their vacation, and are probably filled SOONER than a domestic delivery, if anything. It was my understanding that the whole reason for allowing E.D. so soon on the E90 was because they really want to move this car in volumes. Just doesn't make any sense.....why offer E.D. so soon at all??

[equipto76]

Congrats! What made you choose Monaco blue? I can't seem to find any pictures (other than that one in the snow).

I'm a huge fan of Mystic Blue on the current 3-Series especially with a dark interior. Unfortunately I didn't have that option on mine but I really like the Monaco Blue from the pictures I've seen. The best place I've found to get a feel for the colors online is the new 3-Series site on bmwusa.com. Build your 3 with the color and wheels you want then click on "View in 360."

Most of the colors available I could be happy with. The only one I'm not too sure about is Arctic Metallic. Part of the price you pay for being an early orderee is you can't be 100% sure how you'll feel about a specific car/color/wheel combination until you buy it.

[jayo]

Hi All,

I ordered my E90 last saturday, I went for a 320D SE with the following;

Artic
Beige Dakota Leather
Style 159 Alloys
Comfort Access
Adaptive Lights
Sun Roof
Sport Seats
Sport S/Wheel
Lumbar Support
6CD Changer
Through Load
Dark Wooden Trim (I cant remember if this is walnut or not!)

I live in Ireland, and I have got a March build, with an expected delivery date of 21st April.

I currently drive a black Golf GTI, and I have agreed a private sale so I was able to get some discount off the list price. However, I was under a bit of pressure to order as I would have lost the sale of my Golf if I had waited for a while. I am a little worried as I have not seen an E90 in the flesh, and I hope my colour/alloy combination looks good. I went with the light colour because I am fed up with trying to keep a dark colour clean!

I would have liked the Lemon, except it comes with a lot of black, and every car I have owned has had a black interior - I needed a change so I went with the beige.

The only other thing I might live to regret is the run flats. From what I have seen on the Web, they cannot be repaired if you get a puncture. I have had two punctures in the last 40,000 miles, so I expect that tyres are going to cost me a fortune.

Part of the reason BMW went with run flats is the boot space & weight. Well the A4 has the same size boot & a spare wheel!

Anyway, I cant wait.

[Bimmer06]

I was all set to place an order for a 330I until I visited my local Lexus dealer and sat in a 2006 GS300. I will now wait for the e90 prices until I order. I configured a 2005 330i with the options I want at $39,595. The MSRP for the Lexus with all the options i want would be $45,669. So depending on how much the e90 price increases the Lexus would only be $3-$5k more plus the mark up on the Lexus is much higher than BMWs. I really want to go with the e90 since I love my e46 but from a cost justification standpoint I may have to go with the larger and more luxurious 2006 Lexus GS300.

[ObD]

Put down my deposit today. :beerchug:

[LarryN]

:yikes: WHAT?? How can they give you the runaround like that???? I have been on the phone with the E.D. department at least once every two weeks since December and not once have they given me the slightest hint of a problem with a May delivery.


They aren't giving me a run around, or anybody else, for that matter. I'm pretty confident that I'll get my requested date. I was originally trying for an April delivery, and worked, thru channels, with the head of ED for the US. It turned out to not be possible. I was specifically told that NO US ED allocations will be available from Germany until March or April, so no dates can be confirmed until those allocations are released to all of the US. If you've been told differently.. I don't know what to say. I'm getting my info from the man himself.

They did accept my order...

[LarryN]

Put down my deposit today. :beerchug:

Woohoo! :fruit: Details, details? Now you have to go to autocross! :D

[RichReg]

They aren't giving me a run around, or anybody else, for that matter. I'm pretty confident that I'll get my requested date. I was originally trying for an April delivery, and worked, thru channels, with the head of ED for the US. It turned out to not be possible. I was specifically told that NO US ED allocations will be available from Germany until March or April, so no dates can be confirmed until those allocations are released to all of the US. If you've been told differently.. I don't know what to say. I'm getting my info from the man himself.

They did accept my order...

:confused: I thought you said you had a problem with MAY delivery, not March or April. I know it wouldn't be possible then....way too soon. My dealership's sales manager also knows the head of E.D. ........allowed me to do a third party pick-up in 2000.

Good Luck!

R.R.

[ObD]

Woohoo! :fruit: Details, details? Now you have to go to autocross! :D


330i, 6sp, TiAg/Blk Cow/Alum trim, SP, PP, CWP, Sat Radio Prep

BMWNA doesn't work weekends so I won't have a production number/delivery date till tomorrow or so. ;)

I got the impression that I'm one of the few who ordered sight unseen from my dealer. My CA thinks this car is going to be great and he's a no BS kind of guy. While I was waiting in the lounge for my CA to get done with his M5 test drive with another client, a few came in looking for the new 3, and demanded why the dealership didn't have one. I listened to the excuses offered up by the CA staff and smiled. Thank you Bimmerfest for the wealth of E90 info. :bigpimp:

As for autocross, I'm not sure I'll make it out since I have a lot of business and personal travel planned during the summer months. Plus I have to work on my rusty left foot skills so as not to embarrass myself. :rofl:

[vicszhp]

Think I'll wait for the e90 ZHP version... Perhaps they will remove the Corolla rear-end with a real design.

:eeps:

[rich/minn]

I have a 2002 e46 330xi auto,and this time i am ordering e90 325 manual with sports package.Because of the extra power and being manual and less weight(xi is heavier)the e90 is going to be faster,bigger,better handling and less money.The e90 is a better car.I would not waste my money on the xi,get snow tires and the xi's have less residual value.I am know a bmw enthiusist,you need sport package which is not available on the xi's,and they are $2,000 more expensive.It's cheaper and more fun to skip xi and get snows for winter.That's my 2 cents.

[ase2dais]

I came from a mercedes world and had gotten rid of my old fren e320, is was a 7 yr relationship. Still miss that car, nonetheless, i swapped her with a new 2006 graphite charcoal e325i.

I never did care much about a 3 series because of the small room it offered b3fore, but now with the new body style, i immediately fell inlove with this new E90 roomiest and sleek body style.

I opted for a basic metalic graphite, heated seats, and 6spd steptronic. No nonsense frills, i wish I had gotten a sport package with it then. But because of the sept 1 price increase, i decided to take wat was on the lot. still happy!

Some new thnking i had to get adjusted, no spare tires, due to its run-flat tires with the unit. and dip-stick ! forget it. yu do both from the cockpit !

Oh before i forget!~ make sure yu include a jack-kit in yur negotiation, i found that out after the fact. its a $150 venture to the parts dept after yu buy the car. remember no spare tires with this car! so jack was not included! but the salesman made up for it by thowing a set of chrome tail exhaust, rubber mats and a cool bmw valve caps.

but overall, Im very pleased!~ imagine 4yr 50k mile service and warranty included. i cant beat that. After that honeymoon, it will be a $250 oil chge at the dealership! its only every 15k btw so it all adds up!

The E90 is not yur Average BMW, it requires new thinking, its for the iPod crowd, w/c btw can be hooked up simply by a small jackwire, forget the ituner. And forget the 6cd tray rack who needs it! when yu have yur mp3s.

so boys and girls thats my story and i hope to live happily ever after my purchased!

the end

[BASSW]

I had Saab and was fairly satified with a modest car, quality car. However, when I saw the new 3 series I was completely taken by it. It comes full loaded with premium, cold weather, sport's package. Can't wait.