The New BMW 3 Series is Now Available | BMW

BMW

The New BMW 3 Series is Here

As we reported in our test drive review, the BMW 3 Series, a compact sports sedan from BMW, has undergone a full model change for the first time in approximately seven years. As the first installment, BMW announced that it will begin sales of the "328i" at all authorized BMW dealerships nationwide starting today. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in mid-February 2012.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

A Full Model Change After Approximately Seven Years

The new 3 Series features a sporty image, characterized by its low-slung front end with headlights positioned low and integrated into BMW's traditional "kidney grille," a coupe-like side profile, and a rear with a 3cm wider track for increased stability. To ensure convenience in Japan's mechanical multi-story parking garages, the overall width, originally 1,811mm, has been reduced to 1,800mm through design modifications such as the door handles, which are unique to the Japanese specification. The wheelbase has been extended by 50mm, increasing rear-seat knee room by 15mm. The 95mm increase in overall length is thought to accommodate the installation of lithium-ion batteries for a future hybrid model. The weight distribution remains at the traditional near 50:50.

The BMW 3 Series, Fully Redesigned for the First Time in Approximately Seven Years, Goes on Sale | BMW 02

The BMW 3 Series, Fully Redesigned for the First Time in Approximately Seven Years, Goes on Sale | BMW 03

Further Lineup Expansion Planned

The "328i," available from today, is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder twin-turbo engine, whereas the previous "325i" featured a 6-cylinder engine. It delivers a maximum output of 180kW (245ps) at 5,000rpm and a peak torque of 350Nm (35.6kgm) from 1,250-4,800rpm. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic. In addition to engine downsizing, the transmission's high efficiency, along with features like the engine start/stop function and brake energy regeneration system, have resulted in a 13% increase in maximum output and a 30% increase in maximum torque compared to the previous 325i, while simultaneously improving fuel economy by approximately 24% (compared to the previous BMW 325i, 10-15 mode). It achieves 15.6 km/L (10-15 mode; 15.2 km/L in JC08 mode) and qualifies for eco-car tax reductions. It also meets the "Heisei 27 (2015) Fiscal Year Fuel Economy Standards" with a margin exceeding the target by over 15%.

According to BMW, the 3 Series lineup is expected to expand further, with the "320i" planned for introduction in the spring and the hybrid model "ActiveHybrid3" in the fall.

The "328i," now on sale, is available in three variations: "Sport," emphasizing sportiness; "Modern," highlighting contemporary design; and "Luxury," focusing on a traditional, elegant image. Prices start at 5.7 million yen for the standard model, and 5.86 million yen for the Sport, Modern, and Luxury trims.

The BMW 3 Series, Fully Redesigned for the First Time in Approximately Seven Years, Goes on Sale | BMW 04

This video, released by BMW to coincide with the Detroit Motor Show, introduces the new 3 Series along with commentary from the chief designer regarding its styling. It also touches upon the ActiveHybrid 3.