BMW 335is Officially Announced With 320-hp, Optional 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
New high-performance 3 Series sold exclusively in North America
Possibly BMW’s worst kept secret in recent history, the German automaker has just officially announced a new high-performance version of the 3 Series Coupe, called the 335is. Using the 335′s twin-turbo inline-six, the boost has been upped, the exhaust sportified and the cooling system upgraded. The result is 320-hp and 332 ft-lbs of torque. An overboost function will also permit short bursts of 370 ft-lbs of torque.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, but BMW will offer (for the first time ever on a non-M 3 Series), it’s new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds with the dual-clutch automatic and 5.1 seconds with the manual. The convertible model will achieve the 0-60 mph sprint in 5.2 seconds regardless of transmission.
Additional changes to this new mode, which slots in art way between the 335 and M3 include a new front fascia and a rear diffuser, as well as many M Sport trim items and 18-inch wheels (19s are optional).
The bad news is the price, with the higher-performance 335 set at $50,525 and the convertible priced from a pricey $59,075. And don’t forget the cost of the 7-speed tranny on top.
The 2011 BMW 335is will be available to purchase this Spring, after it’s debut at the New York Auto Show in late March.
GALLERY: BMW 335is
Official release after the jump:
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