BMW's eternally popular 3-Series gets refreshed with specific design modifications, further refinements in interior design, the new generation of the optional operating concept BMW iDrive, a revised range of engines and innovations in drive technology, safety and comfort.

Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, a new seven-speed sports automatic double clutch transmission will be presented for both Coupé and Convertible models of the series.

But back to the sedan.

The front view is now characterised by a clear emphasis on vehicle width. The characteristic brand trademark of the double circular headlights is underscored by chrome tubes, and their corona rings can now also be used in the BMW 3 Series with optional bi-xenon headlamps as daytime running lights. The light sources of the direction indicators have a ribbed structure and LED direction indicator lights are installed in conjunction with the optional bi-xenon headlamps.

Taut surfaces and character lines dominate the side view. The contour edges of the side skirts have been set higher and modelled in a more distinctive fashion. Another new feature is the exterior mirror sporting two distinctive character lines echoing the interplay between the convex and concave shaping of the surfaces. These mirrors also provide an enlarged field of vision.

And at the back, the rear bumpers, rear lights and luggage compartment handle have been completely redesigned. The dual section rear lights are now structured according to the characteristic BMW L shape. The two rear light clusters and the direction indicators feature LED technology.

The widened track of the new BMW 3 Series especially contributes to its more powerful appearance. Depending on the model, the track of the rear axle has been widened by up to 24 millimetres by means of a new wheel carrier and other modified details.

The interior has been further enhanced by means of specific adjustments in the selection of materials and the overall surface design. It's apparently all about "convex-concave surfaces, sporty elegance and technology-oriented aesthetic style".

Getting technical

The new generation iDrive operating system is available for the activation and control of entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunications functions. Featuring an 8.8-inch control display, iDrive also supports multi-mode operation by voice entry and features four direct selection buttons.

It's available in conjunction with the optional navigation system "Professional" which includes a hard drive integrated in the vehicle. It provides fast access to digital maps and can also be used for a collection of music files. The system enables music files to be transferred to the hard drive from a CD, MP3 player or USB stick.

Under the hood

In accordance with BMW EfficientDynamics, every new BMW offers increased driving dynamics in combination with reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emissions levels as compared to its respective predecessors.

Witness the BMW 330d. Its new 3.0 litre all-aluminium diesel engine achieves its maximum output of 180kW at an engine speed of 4000rpm, while its maximum torque of 520Nm is available from 1750 to 3000rpm. The new BMW 330d accelerates in 6.1 seconds from zero to 100km/h, its maximum speed is electronically cut off at 250km/h. The average fuel consumption of the new BMW 330d according to the EU test cycle is 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres, equating to CO2 emissions of 167 grams per kilometre.

All 335i petrol engines are fitted with High Precision Injection and all diesel engines combine an all-aluminium crankcase, turbo charging and third generation common rail direct injection. The flagship BMW 335i is especially dynamically capable, powering to 100km/h from rest in 5.6 seconds.

Electro-mechanical steering with integrated Servotronic function for speed-related steering support comes standard, while "Active Steering" is optional, adapting the steering ratio on the fly to suit road conditions.

Safe and sound

The safety concept of the new BMW 3 Series is based on a solid body structure, high-strength steel types and special deformation elements to divert and absorb impact energy. There are six airbags, three-point automatic belts and headrests on all seats.

Isofix children’s seat mounts on the rear seats are a standard feature. The front seats are fitted as standard with crash-active headrests which reduce the risk of injury to the cervical spine in the event of an impact. Controlled by the vehicle’s safety electronics system, this feature ensures that in the event of a rear-on collision the front section of the headrest is moved forward and upwards. This reduces the distance between headrest and head, increasing the stabilising and securing function of the headrest.

The new generation of adaptive headlight, optionally available in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps, lights up the road surface when taking a corner.