DOWN THE ROAD: This redesigned “ultimate driving machine” is a fun sports sedan to drive. The fifth-generation 3 Series gets a complete makeover, which results in a far more supple, nimble and fast ride than the previous version. Stuck in peak-hour traffic or late for a meeting? Step on the gas, watch the roads, and you will reach your destination in absolute comfort and luxury.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: The 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine offers 215 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 185 pounds-feet of torque at 2750 rpm. The rear-wheel-drive sedan comes with the standard 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed automatic. Horsepower is up by 31.

Steering and handling is precise and firm because of a double-pivot front suspension and a 5-link rear suspension. Lending support is an engine-speed variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering system that has earned accolades over the years from automotive enthusiasts. I especially liked the now-standard run-flat tires with a warning feature, which gives a driver enough time to continue down the road before finding a place to fix and replace the tire. A larger diameter on the four-wheel ventilated disc brakes is noticeable when you step down.

LOOK AND FEEL: Everything is roomier in the 325i. For instance, the wheelbase has been increased by 1.4 inches, length by 2.2 inches, width by three inches and height by 0.8 inches. Despite all these, the 325i maintains a handsome, attractive and compact look with a front fascia sporting an upward-sloping hood and four-beam headlights behind clear covers.

Beige leather seats greet you upon stepping into the alpine white sedan. The instrument panel, surrounded by burl walnut wood trim, is easy to read and reach. The grip on the three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with multifunction controls is solid. Opt for the Premium Package if you prefer an auto-dimming mirror with compass, six-way power front seats with driver memory and power lumbar support, among other amenities.

SAFETY FIRST: BMW’s head-protection curtain for front and rear seats debuts in the 3 Series. Also standard are dual front- and side-impact seat-mounted airbags.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 205/55R16 all season; wheelbase, 108.7 inches; length, 178.2 inches; weight, 3,285 pounds; fuel capacity, 15.9 gallons; highway 29 mpg, city 21 mpg.

OUT THE DOOR: $30,300, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

WHY DIG IT: The icon of sports sedans, as BMW likes to tout its 3 Series, has undergone remarkable changes. Backed by the Bavarian carmaker’s rock-solid reputation, the 325i has it all: power, luxury, style and comfort. You couldn’t ask for a more thorough package. Nitish S. Rele is an Advertising Staff Writer for The Tampa Tribune.