You can always count on BMW for excitement -- and this winter is no different.

The source of all the energy is the new 3 Series Coupe and Convertible.

Both are hot little numbers that can't be beat for getting your heart rate going.

Word is that both models, when equipped with the powerful 3.0 liter in-line 6, this sleek new hardtop has performance so strong that it equals the legendary M3 of several years ago.

	The 2007 BMW 3 Series Coupe. Click photo for larger image.

I've never driven an M3 but I can tell you that as far as the 3 Series Coupe is concerned, the acceleration is stunning -- hitting 60 mph in about 4.8 to 4.9 seconds -- 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.

Hit the gas pedal and you are nicely pushed back into some of the most supportive, firm bucket sets in the business, and your adrenaline is on high alert as you storm down the street and tear around corners.

The coupe comes in three versions -- a base 328i Coupe that has a 230 horsepower in-line six, a new 3.0 liter 300 horsepower twin turbo in-line 6 in the 335i and later a new 328xi coupe. Prices range from $35,995 to $41,295. Expect mileage to be rated around 20 mpg city/30 highway.

As you might imagine, the standard equipment list is long and includes side air bags, ABS, traction and stability control systems, alloy 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 niceties, such as your choice of four different trims for your interior -- dark burl walnut wood, light poplar natural wood, gray poplar wood and brushed aluminum.

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

The convertible has the same terrific equipment-- with a big difference-- a hard top for inclement weather and cold conditions. At the touch of a button, the top lowers or raises, providing lots of convenience, too.

Other interesting features include red ambiance lighting that runs horizontally along the doors sun reflective technology to keep seat surfaces cooler, brake fade compensation, and a special brake drying system. No other information is available on prices.

Other news at BMW includes 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 engine that carries a price tag of $49,995. These two are classic, almost retro looking coupes that appear as though they were designed in the 1930s. Yet they also have styling highlights that are very much 21st century.

The coupes come with features such 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 the 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 to 17 mpg city and 23 to 25 on the highway. Prices range from $73,595 to $121,395.

Except for color changes, the addition of some new packages such as "BMW Individual" with special interior trims, larger tires and unusual hues, the rest of the BMW line remains unchanged for the most part.