It's a big day for BMW, as it's revealed the full details and specification for the next 3-series.
And the headlines for the sixth generation of BMW's core product? It's bigger on the inside and the outside, but more fuel-efficient and (BMW at least reckons) more nimble and agile while becoming even safer.
The new 3-series also gets an eight-speed automatic gearbox available across the range (a first for the premium compact class), while hybrid versions are in the offing, as are four-wheel-drive variants (a first in the UK).
But although the 3-series doesn't stray too far from the established form visually (it's 93mm longer, with an extra 50mm in the wheel bases and a marginally wider track - 37mm at the front and 47mm at the rear), there are dramatic things afoot under the bonnet.
All 3-series engines are now turbocharged, and the only petrol engines available are the 241bhp turbocharged four-pot in the 328i and the 302bhp turbocharged inline six of the 335i. Both of these are available from the car's launch in February 2012, along with the 181bhp 320d and 161bhp 320d Efficient dynamics.
These will be followed shortly after by the 316d and 318d diesels, powered with 115bhp and 141bhp variants of the 2.0-litre diesel engine, plus another version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the 181bhp 320i.
The hybrid and 4x4 versions are expected on sale in the UK towards the end of 2012.
Model |
Price OTR from |
Power Hp |
Torque Nm |
0 – 62mph Seconds |
Top speed Mph |
Combined Mpg |
CO2 Emissions g/km |
BMW 328i Saloon |
£29,060 |
245 |
350 |
5.9 (6.1) |
155* |
44.1 (44.8) |
149 (147) |
BMW 335i Saloon |
£35,525 |
306 |
400 |
5.5 (5.5) |
155* |
35.8 (39.2) |
186 (169) |
BMW 320d Saloon |
£28,080 |
184 |
380 |
7.5 (7.6) |
146 (143) |
62.8 (64.2) |
120 (118) |
BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon |
£28,080 |
163 |
380 |
8.0 (8.1) |
143 (141) |
68.9 (68.9) |
109 (109) |
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*Electronically limited. |
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