A Roomy Interior

The most significant feature of the newly released 3 Series is arguably its dimensions. Compared to the current model, the overall length has been extended by 93mm and the wheelbase by 50mm. The track has also widened, by 37mm at the front and 47mm at the rear.

The body size of 4,624mm (length) x 1,811mm (width) x 1,429mm (height), with a wheelbase of 2,810mm, places it between its direct rivals, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (4,595 x 1,770 x 1,445mm, 2,760mm) and the Audi A4 (4,705 x 1,825 x 1,465mm, 2,810mm) in terms of length and width. It is lower in height and has the same wheelbase as the A4.

The increase in body size was primarily to ensure more rear passenger space. While the 3 Series has historically lagged behind its rivals in terms of interior comfort, it appears to have succeeded in creating a considerably more spacious cabin.

The Joy of Driving

The models likely to be introduced to the Japanese market will probably be the 328i and 335i. The former is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine, and the latter with a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine, both driving the rear wheels in an FR layout. The 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution is also maintained. Notably, including the diesel units for the European market, all models will feature only direct-injection turbo engines, with no naturally aspirated options available.

Currently, the base model, the 328i, boasts a maximum output of 180kW (245ps) and a peak torque of 350Nm, achieving 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds. It also offers impressive environmental performance with a fuel economy of 15.6km/ℓ and CO2 emissions of 149g/km in the EU combined cycle. The 335i, using the same engine as before, achieves 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds, with fuel economy of 12.7km/ℓ and CO2 emissions of 186g/km. While a 6-speed manual transmission will be available in Europe, Japan will likely receive the class-first 8-speed automatic transmission.

Will the "joy of driving" be inherited in this new model?

A Design That Evokes BMW's Identity

The exterior design follows BMW's established design language, featuring a short overhang, long hood, and short deck. It is also characterized by the Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar, a signature BMW element. While it faithfully adheres to the BMW sedan "grammar" with a press line extending from the front fender to the rear of the body and L-shaped taillights, the front end appears sportier and more aggressive.BMWThe design adheres to BMW's established grammar, featuring a short overhang, long hood, and short deck, along with the signature Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar. The press line extending from the front fender to the rear of the body and the L-shaped taillights faithfully follow BMW sedan conventions, but the overall appearance is sportier and more aggressive.

Other features include a full-color head-up display that projects essential driving information onto the windshield, offering equipment beyond its class. The surround view system, equipped with side and top-view cameras, displays an aerial view of the vehicle and its surroundings, while the parking assist function facilitates smooth parking maneuvers.

Hybrid Model Also Arriving in Fall 2012

Additionally, the active cruise control with stop & go function is part of BMW ConnectedDrive's assistance features, which helps avoid hazards during lane changes through monitor control. Further optional equipment includes Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI), the "BMW Connected" app for navigation and social networking, automatic trunk lid operation, and Active Protection.

A hybrid model, to be called the ActiveHybrid 3, is also planned for release in the fall of 2012.

The new BMW 3 Series has been announced with a starting price of 35,350 Euros (approximately 3.73 million yen) for the base model in Germany.

BMW 328i Sedan
Body Size | Length 4,624 x Width 1,811 x Height 1,429mm
Wheelbase | 2,810mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,430kg / 1,505kg *Unladen weight according to DIN / EU
Engine | 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder DOHC with turbocharger
Maximum Output | 180kW (245ps) / 5,000-6,500rpm
Maximum Torque | 350Nm / 1,250-4,800rpm
Transmission | 6-speed manual or electronically controlled 8-speed automatic
0-100km/h Acceleration | 5.9 seconds
Fuel Economy (EU Combined Cycle Mode) | 6.4ℓ/100km (15.6km/ℓ)
CO2 Emissions | 149g/km
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive
Price | 35,350 Euros

BMW 335i Sedan
Vehicle Weight | 1,510kg / 1,585kg *Unladen weight according to DIN / EU
Engine | 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder DOHC with turbocharger
Maximum Output | 225kW (306ps) / 5,800-6,000rpm
Maximum Torque | 400Nm / 1,250-5,000rpm
0-100km/h Acceleration | 5.5 seconds
Fuel Economy (EU Combined Cycle Mode) | 7.9ℓ/100km (12.7km/ℓ)
CO2 Emissions | 186g/km
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive
Price | 43,600 Euros