[ede92]

My E93 was in for work this week and I ended up getting a 328 X-drive for the day.

1) The car feels pretty peppy no doubt.

2) The 4-banger just does not do it for me as far as smoothness and cool mechanical engine sounds. After having 4 in-line 6s in my BMWs I think it will be hard for me to buy the 4. I know it is faster than my E93 by a second or more but I'd rather have the 6. At idle it can sometimes be a bit rough (I had disabled engine stop/start).

3) I played with Sport and Comfort modes and DS mode on the tranny. I found setting combinations that resulted in some less than smooth shifts.

4) The switchgear compared to the E92/E93 did not have the same feel. Felt like a Mazda really. The plastics were thin and the action did not feel as nice as before. I also own a 2013 Passat that has better switchgear.

5) Seating position is very good.

6) High speed highway stability is where the car shines even with the all season tires.

7) No bluetooth audio connectivity? Huh? $12K Kia's have this!

8) Steering is not an improvement.

Overall, this is a very good car but I think BMW has some refinements to introduce in subsequent years to make it feel more luxurious than a new Mazda.