2011 BMW 335is (photos)

BMW last used the 's' for the E36 325is, which ceased production in 1995. Revived for the 335is, the letter indicates a sport-tuned version of the 335i that along with more horsepower, gets the option of BMW's seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, an option not available in the 335i.

Cosmetically, the 335is only shows minor changes from the 335i. Its gloss black grille inserts and mirror caps distinguish the 335is, along with black exhaust tips.

The 335is' twin-turbocharged 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine generates 320 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. This engine is a holdover from the 2010 BMW 335i--the 2011 335i gets a slightly different engine.

BMW only sells the 335is in coupe form, whereas you can get the 335i as a sedan or convertible. Although a sunroof comes standard, that feature can be deleted.

The 335is comes standard with some M accessories, including a gearshift knob and these star pattern wheels.

The 335is has a tight, sport-tuned suspension that makes for a rougher ride than that in the 335i. But the handling is excellent, especially with traction control set to dynamic.

Beyond the M accessories and special badging, the 335is' interior is identical to that of the 335i.

The 3334is includes an M steering wheel.

The tachometer gets a 335is badge.

The standard six-speed-manual transmission has different gear ratios than the manual transmission found in the 335i.

The iDrive interface uses this list format for choosing different application areas.

With its hard drive-based navigation system, the maps are stunning in their detail.

The navigation system includes traffic data, and will dynamically route around problems.

The Bluetooth phone system has a phonebook function that downloads a paired phone's contact list. And its voice command system lets you dial by name.

This iPod interface is poorly constructed, as each category serves as a filter. Choose an artist, and the album category will only show albums by the previously selected artist, not something you want to mess with while driving.

The audio system also lets you rip CDs to the car's hard drive.

We were very pleased with the Harman Kardon audio system. It is a very worthwhile option for this car.

This park distance heat map is the only driver assistance feature on the car. You can't get blind spot detection or adaptive cruise control in the 335is.