Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.America's Brief Diesel RevolutionDiesels in America are largely reserved for heavy-duty trucks. But there was a time when it was widely offered by European automakers, and those offered performance that matched or even surpassed gas-powered models, without much of a fuel economy penalty. Mercedes-Benz had offered diesel passenger cars for the longest time, while Volkswagen Group tried to make that engine big in America with its 2.0-liter and 3.0-liter TDI. Well, we all know how that went.Then there was BMW, and it wanted to show America that its diesels were a force to be reckoned with. Granted, it offered the 524td back in the '80s, but the 2009 335d was supposed to be the car that proved diesels truly offered the best of both worlds in terms of performance and economy. Again, we all know why diesel passenger cars were effectively eradicated in America.Dannyluce63/Bring a TrailerThe BackstoryAbout 10,000 335d units made it to the U.S. While not totally rare, it's still a relatively uncommon car. Among the standard 3 Series sedan model range, it also commands a higher resale value over the 328i and 335i, as Classic.com currently puts average market prices for it at over $12,000. Only the E91 wagons are valued higher.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis particular 335d has a brief ownership history, mainly because it's only had one owner for the past 17 years. Yes, the car has only had one owner since new, and it's been cared for ever since. The car does have some minor imperfections (paint chips, some curb rash), but it's a car that was enjoyed, not stored. It's had a few repairs along the way, too, namely a new window regulator at the left-rear, a new fuel filter and fuel pump, and a control valve. That said, it needs a new set of matching tires.The car is well and fully equipped. It comes with niceties such as iDrive, adaptive xenon headlights, front seat heaters, memory seats, and even an early form of adaptive cruise control. It's a bit of a sleeper, too, as it comes with the Sport Package instead of the M Sport look, but it rides on M Sport suspension.Dannyluce63/Bring a TrailerThe OfferSpecificationDetailMakeBMWModel335d (E90)Year2009Mileage54,923 milesEngine3.0-liter M57 inline-six twin-turbo dieselPower265 horsepowerTransmission6-speed automaticDrive typeRear-wheel driveExterior colorAlpine WhiteInterior colorRed Dakota leatherWheels18-inch Style 195 split 7-spoke alloy wheelsSuspensionMacPherson strut front, multi-link rearBrakesFour-wheel ventilated discSteeringHydraulic rack and pinion steeringCurrent bid$5,300Interested in this car? View the listing here.Dannyluce63/Bring a TrailerWhy it's SpecialThe E90 BMW 335d was a true high-performance diesel. It was built during a time when Europe was well and truly in love with diesels, further accelerating its development and tapping into the potential that was previously unseen. It still drove and rode like a proper 3 Series, and with 425 lb-ft of torque, it pulled the car to highway speeds with little to no effort. Sub 5.5-second runs to 60 mph weren't uncommon, as well as 40 MPG provided one was gentle with their right foot. The 335d is often regarded as the E90 you keep, which is why it's a huge deal to see one up for sale.Dannyluce63/Bring a TrailerDannyluce63/Bring a TrailerAdvertisementAdvertisementView the 12 images of this gallery on the original articleThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Aug 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the Car Buying section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.