2011 BMW 335is Officially Revealed: Video

BMW HAS TODAY revealed the upcoming 2011 BMW 335is Coupe and Convertible, ahead of its New York Auto Show unveiling in March.

Although based on the updated 3 Series Coupe and Convertible, the 335is is powered by the outgoing N54 twin-turbo engine. Unlike the N54-powered sDrive35is' 254kW output, however, the 335is produces 'only' 240kW.

Torque is rated at 450Nm, and while its kW figure falls short of the Z4 sDrive35is, the 335is is a good 15kW and 43Nm more powerful than the new N55-powered 335i.

For extra power, the 335is features a temporary 'overboost' function that allows the engine to produce up to 500Nm of torque for short periods - such as overtaking and other high-load/high-speed manoeuvres.

By comparison, the current BMW M3 delivers 309kW from its 4.0 litre V8, and 400Nm of torque. The next-generation M3 is rumoured to be making a return to six-cylinder power, likely utilising a higher tune of the new N55 engine.

Power from the 335is' N54 engine is transferred to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, while BMW's seven-speed double-clutch transmission features on the options list.

The 335is Coupe sprints to 96km/h (60mph) in 5 seconds, while the Convertible covers the distance in 5.2 seconds.

Other performance-oriented features unique to the 335is include an additional radiator behind the left-side front air intake and a high-output cooling fan.

In the case of the 335is Coupe, which BMW expects to see more track time at the hands of eager owners, the fog lights have been swapped out for enhanced engine and brake cooling.

As with the Z4 sDrive35is, the 335is Coupe and Convertible will use the M Sport Package body kit, with 18-inch alloy wheels and a unique rear diffuser. BMW lists 19-inch wheels among the 335is' options.

On the inside, an M Sport steering wheel, sport seats, anthracite headliner, M door sills, M driver's footrest, M gearshift knob and stainless steel sport pedals make up the bulk of the styling enhancements.

While Australian dates and availability have yet to be released, the 335is is expected to make its US debut at the New York Auto Show in late March.