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The snow and cold that may have marked our last gasp of winter was an ideal time to sample BMW’s all-wheel-drive 328 coupe.

The 328xi marks the first time BMW has offered the coupe with all-wheel drive. BMW’s xDrive is similar to the system used on the X3 and X5 utility vehicles. It not only distributes power to each wheel as conditions require, but it also utilizes BMW’s stability control system as a partner to help stabilize the vehicle.

On slippery streets, the 328xi accelerated smoothly. When the wheels slipped, the momentary instability disappeared quickly and the car regained stability. Bear in mind that the all-wheel-drive 328 is not the coupe equivalent of an SUV, but rather it is a sport coupe with enough sure-footed grip to get around on slick streets with reasonable security.

Braking on snow and ice requires a delicate touch, even with anti-lock brakes. Winter tires would make this package more useful.

The 3-series coupe is new for 2007, and its sleek profile captures the sedan’s genealogy while distinguishing the car with simpler character lines.

The 328’s 230-horsepower engine lacks the serious thrust of the 300-horse, twin-turbo 335i, but it charms the driver with its silken behavior and meaty torque curve. The 3.0-liter, magnesium and aluminum six-cylinder engine uses BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve lift to distribute torque across a wide range of rpm. The engine feels as happy at maximum rpm as it does at idle.

Inline six-cylinder engines are longer and more difficult to package than a V-6, but their inherent smoothness makes them a dream to drive. Noise and vibration are minimal.

The six-speed transmission is the ideal partner for this engine. First gear is low enough for leaping away from starts, yet sixth is tall enough for very relaxed cruising. A six-speed automatic is also offered.

Great handling is synonymous with BMW, and the 328 grips the road with a delightful balance. The fully independent suspension is supple yet firm.

BMW equips its cars with strong brakes, and the 328’s brake pedal was almost too sensitive at times. The degree of stability under heavy braking was reassuring. Anti-lock, traction control and stability control are all standard equipment.

Inside, the 328’s cockpit is thankfully free of the confounding iDrive system unless you specify the navigation system. Straightforward knobs for audio and climate are such a relief after struggling with iDrive in many other models.

Deeply contoured front bucket seats are among the best around, and they have a wide range of adjustment to fit nearly any person. The back seat has two seats and a center console.

A mechanized arm pushes the seat belt forward when the door closes so front-seat passengers don’t have to reach back so far to grab the belt. The BMW coupe’s front doors are fairly wide to facilitate access to the rear seat, and that puts the belt mounting point quite a distance from the driver or passenger. Price

The base price is $37,795. When the 328xi is equipped with the cold-weather package and premium package, the sticker price is $42,240. Warranty

The warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles. BMW also has no-cost maintenance program that covers inspections, oil changes and wear-and-tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles.