E90

E90 is the internal chassis designation used by BMW for the sedan variant of the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, commonly known as the E9x generation. The E9x family comprises the sedan E90, the wagon E91, the coupe E92, and the convertible E93, produced roughly from 2004/2005 to 2013. The sedan version is the best-known member of this generation.

The E90/E91/E92/E93 models introduced new styling and technology for the 3 Series, with production largely focused at BMW plants in Germany and elsewhere. An LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) refresh occurred around 2008–2009, updating exterior details and interior options and expanding available features, including enhancements to the iDrive system and safety equipment. The range offered rear-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive (xDrive) available on many variants.

Powertrains for the E9x lineup included a broad range of four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Entry models used smaller displacement units, while mid-range variants combined performance with efficiency. The high-performance M3 variant was available as the E90 sedan (and E92/E93 in their respective body styles) and used the S65 V8 engine, delivering high horsepower and strong performance. Transmission options typically included a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, with all-wheel-drive versions offering appropriate drivetrain adaptations.

The E90 sedan was positioned alongside its E9x siblings as the core sedan option in the 3 Series lineup. In 2012–2013, the E9x generation began transitioning to the newer F30/F31 platforms, marking the end of the E9x era. The E90 remains notable for its balanced handling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and the availability of a high-performance M3 variant.