The BMW 3 Series E90 (sedan), E91 (wagon/Touring), E92 (coupe), and E93 (convertible) marked a stylistic and technological break from the previous generation (E46). Launched in 2005, it received a major facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in late 2008, correcting many early flaws and modernizing its appearance. Mechanically, this generation underwent a major transition: the shift from indirect to direct injection for gasoline engines, and the introduction of aluminum diesel engines (N family) replacing cast iron blocks (M family). While its road handling remains the absolute benchmark in its category, the E90's reliability varies greatly depending on the chosen engine. Diesels, very popular in Europe, are divided into two eras: the robust but imperfect M47/M57, and the efficient but fragil
The BMW 3 Series E90 is a car with two faces. It's a formidable driving machine, boasting a brilliant chassis, but it demands a surgical selection of its engine. For a diesel purchase, absolutely prioritize the 6-cylinder M57 generation (325d, 330d, 335d from before late 2008) which, once their intake flaps are removed, are indestructible. Avoid the N47 4-cylinders (318d, 320d from 2007 to 2012) unless you are provided with the timing chain replacement invoice (often over €2000). For gasoline, the naturally aspirated indirect injection 6-cylinder (N52) is the choice for peace of mind. Buying an E90 today requires a significant maintenance budget and a rigorous inspection of its history.