What is the BMW e90?
4 Answers
BMW e90 is the fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series. Its body dimensions are: length 4719mm, width 1827mm, height 1459mm, with a wheelbase of 2851mm, a fuel tank capacity of 59 liters, a trunk capacity of 480 liters, and a curb weight of 1675kg. The BMW e90 features a front suspension with a double-ball-joint spring strut front axle and a rear multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 156 PS, a maximum power of 115 kW, and a maximum torque of 250 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The E90 is the chassis code for the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series, produced from 2005 to 2013. This generation includes the four-door sedan (E90), wagon (E91), two-door coupe (E92), and convertible (E93). It inherits BMW's classic rear-wheel-drive layout and 50:50 weight distribution, delivering surgical precision in handling. The soul of the car lies in the inline-six engines assembled in German factories—especially the silky-smooth N52 in the 325i, which is downright addictive. The ride is firm for daily driving but offers exceptional cornering support. Downsides include a plasticky interior and the infuriating first-gen iDrive system. Oil consumption is a common issue, particularly with the N46 engine. Nowadays, you can find one on the used market for 20,000–30,000 RMB, but restoration costs might exceed the purchase price.
When talking about the E90, its mechanical prowess must be mentioned. This generation of the 3 Series was equipped with the naturally aspirated inline-six N52 engine, whose refinement remains an industry benchmark to this day—the 325i drives as smoothly as melting chocolate. The ZF 6AT transmission outsmarted its contemporaries in intelligence, while the manual version was the top choice for hardcore enthusiasts. The chassis featured aluminum suspension components, delivering crisp and clean responses over speed bumps. However, the electric power steering was criticized by old-school BMW fans for lacking road feel, an issue only improved in later facelifts. The air conditioning system is prone to compressor failure, and clogged sunroof drain tubes inevitably lead to leaks. For used buyers, it’s advisable to find one with refurbished valve stem seals—otherwise, burning 1 liter of oil every 1,000 kilometers is no joke.
As a mechanic who has repaired hundreds of E90s, I know all its issues inside out. Stay away from the N46 four-cylinder engine—its valve cover gasket leaks oil like an irregular period. The run-flat tires that come standard are so stiff they'll rattle your backside; switching to regular tires boosts comfort by 30% instantly. The electric water pump is designed to last just 60,000 km—when it fails, the car just dies. Common problems also include ignition coils that love to quit, fuel pumps that squeal, and window regulators that get lazy in winter. But the chassis is truly tough—the control arm bushings can handle 100,000 km with no issues. DIY maintenance isn’t actually expensive; use 5W-30 oil, with Castrol Edge being the best fit. Only the facelifted LCI version with angel-eye headlights has the right vibe.
