Decision time. Looking for a car and can get either lightly optioned for about the same price; $45k. 528i = new body style and more room, interior very nice. 30 mpg. 335d= 40 mpg and killer torque. We generally keep cars till they are used up.
I had a loaner 335d for few days and was very impressed. With that much torque and great gas milage you can't go wrong.
tough call. I like the 335d. but, it is soon to be replaced. and the 528 is brand new (so it won't be outdated in 2 years). bigger, roomier, and still gets decent mileage. probably won't be as quick/sporty, though. also, diesel costs more than gas (even premium, at least here in CA), so the mileage gain in the 335d is offset by higher per gallon costs. in the end, were it my money, I'd go with the 528.
Thought about diesel... most stations have 1 diesel pump. If you arrive and it's in use,... you'll be waiting. And if you are going to blow a fuse when the driver of the car in front of you, leaves the car blocking the pump while he/she goes in to buy PowerBall tickets... may want to stick with gas.
New generation 3-series out i 2012, I would wait. Actually, I am waiting on the next gen touring with xDrive and DCT (double clutch transmission).
My wife drives a MB G350 Bluetec diesel and even with the higher cost per gallon, she comes out way ahead. On a recent 700 mile road trip she averaged 31mpg at a steady 70mph on cruise control.
Thanks for all the reponses. After visiting the BMW dealer we stopped at their sister Volvo dealer next door. They were giving a new S80 away at $12K off. My wife (not a car guy ) fell in love with it. We pick it up tommorow. Not my ride so all is cool. My choice for "her" was a 996GT2. That didnt go far.