The 335 SE is a new twin turbo three-litre sixcylinder engine with 306 bhp output which has all the exciting performance and sharp handling expected in the BMW performance models such as the headline-making M5, M6, M Roadster and M Coupe.

However, this is a much more versatile car. It will cater for those who demand sporty driving but need to comfortably ferry around those over six foot.

The Coupe is as easy to drive in everyday use around town as it is out on the motorway. Rear legroom is impressive and the boot can take 440 litres of luggage. There is a skiflap, folding rear seats and lots of cup holders.

A lot of the racetrack technology from the M cars has been built into the Coupe, which is a real headturner and comes with a good line-up of engines.

The 335 SEi is joined by the 325i SE, the 330i SE and the 330d SE and the 335d SE diesels. The more modest four-cylinder models will arrive early next year.

This two-door 3 Series has a taut and poised look. It carries less weight than a Sedan and is dressed with sleek mirrors outside the cockpit, flowing lines towards the rear, striking headlights and LED taillights. Inside, the driver and passenger seatbelts are automatically passed out once the doors have been shut. The driver naturally gets pride of place with an impressive dash arrangement and wellpositioned controls. There is a reassuring engineered sound from the exhaust that will turn heads and expect owners to dip on the accelerator quite a bit to get the maximum audience reaction.

The performance from the 335i is exciting. When pressed, it will shoot from 0100km in 5.5 seconds and the top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155mph).

BMW says that, when cruising, the model will return a reasonable 29mpg with low emissions thanks to the new powerplant technology. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine is flexible and delivers 400Nm of torque at a very low 1300 rpm. The car produces hardly any turbo lag and you can expect crisp handling, good brakes and a supple ride.

The 335 SEi is priced at 66,245. A four-wheel-drive version called the xDrive is due early next year.