BMW's new 3 Series Coupe comes in three versions. Click photo for larger image.

Is BMW's new 3 Series Coupe a coup? Sure sounds like it, if you pay attention to the buff mags. They say that this sleek new hardtop has performance so strong that it equals the legendary M3 of several years ago.

Having driven one, I'd have to concur. The acceleration is stunning, hitting 60 mph in about 4.8 to 4.9 seconds, and is instantaneous and smooth, unlike anything I've seen yet on the 3 Series non-"M'' models. Of course, you have the accompanying throaty exhausts, which simply add more thrill to it all.

The coupe comes in three versions for now -- a base 328i Coupe that has a 230 horsepower in-line six. If that's not enough to whet your whistle, try the new 3.0 liter 300 horsepower twin turbo in-line 6 in the 335i (19/28). That's the one I drove, and like I said, it's something else.

Later you'll see a new 328xi coupe. Price range on these cars is $35,995 to $41,295. Expect around 20 city/30 highway mpg.

As you might imagine, the standard equipment list is long and includes side air bags, ABS, traction and stability control systems, ally wheels, flat tire warning indicator, full power accessories, xenon adaptive headlights with automatic leveling, eight-way adjustable seats and heated mirrors. There are the other little niceties such as your choice of four different trims for your interior -- dark burl walnut wood, light poplar natural wood, gray poplar wood and bushed aluminum.

For the first time, you'll also be able to get BMW's xDrive system which offers a nice, brisk rear wheel drive feeling on dry territory. If you hit snow, ice or other slick conditions though, the xDrive system will automatically send more torque to the axle that has more traction. There's a new rear sport suspension and "active steering" is also an option. That system makes steering the car feel more direct at low and medium speeds.

Other news at BMW include the Z4 Coupe 3.0 Si, with a 255 horsepower in-line six cylinder engine that has a base price of $40,795, and the M Coupe, with a 330 horsepower, 3.2 liter six cylinder that carries a tag of $49,995. These two are classic, almost re tro looking coupes that appear as though they were designed in the 30s by top custom houses. Yet they also have styling highlights that are very much 21st century.

The coupes come with such features as stability control, torsional rigidity and "brake drying," which keeps the brakes dry in wet conditions, and "brake standby," which immediately positions the brake pads nearer the discs whenever the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal quickly.

BMW has dropped the 760i, leaving a 750i and 750 Li to soldier on. Power for the 750 models comes from a 360 horsepower 4.8 liter V-8, while the 760s get the big 6.0 liter 438 horsepower V-12. Mileage? Expect around 15-17 city and 23 to 25 on the highway. Prices range from $73,595 to $121,395.

Except for color changes, addition of some new packages like "BMW Individual" that offers special interior trims, larger tires and unusual hues, the rest of the BMW line remains as it is.