BMW unveiled today the all-new 3-Series. The sixth generation of its luxury sedan will be available to markets worldwide from February 11, 2012. The sixth generation mid-size BMW has grown considerably compared to its predecessor. It is 93 mm longer and an augmented wheelbase at 2,810 mm (+50mm) as well as wider front (+37 mm) and rear (+47 mm) tracks.
The Sixth Generation model will initially be offered at launch with four TwinPower turbocharged engines: two petrol and two diesel units, which are available with two transmissions, a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic, the latter being a first in its class.
The gasoline range comprises of the 328i and 335i, both equipped with the fuel-saving EfficientDynamics package. The 328i is powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, double-Vanos variable camshaft timing and Valvetronic variable valve timing.
Under the hood of the 335i lies a turbocharged inline-six with 306HP and 400 Nm of torque delivered from 1,200-5,000 rpm. It sprints from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds while, like the 328i, it tops out at 250 km/h due to the electronic speed limiter.
In the 163HP EfficientDynamics diesel version the corresponding numbers are 8.0 seconds, 230 km/h, 4.1 lt/100 and 109 g/km. In spring of 2012, three new engines will be added to the line-up: one petrol and two diesels. The gasoline model is the 320i and it’s powered by a 184HP and 270 Nm (199.1 lb-ft) version of the 2.0-liter TwinTurbo. The two turbodiesels will be the 116HP and 260 Nm (191.7 lb-ft) 316d and the 143HP and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) 318d.
The sedan model features a double-joint front axle with aluminum struts and wishbones that reduce unsprung weight and a rear multi-link arrangement. There’s also a new electromechanical system that is said to offer increased agility while minimizing weight and fuel consumption.
For the first time, three BMW’s new sedan will be offered with three different configurations named Sport Line, Modern Line and Luxury Line. They can also opt for the M Sport package which adds 10 mm (0.4 inch) lower as well as firmer suspension, harder anti-roll bars, 18- or 19-inch M alloy wheels, chrome exhaust pipes, exclusive bodywork paint and sport interior trim.
The new 3-Series will be manufactured at the company’s plants in Munich and Regensburg in Germany, as well as in Roslyn, South Africa. In Germany, prices will range from €35,350 for the 320d and €43,600 for the 335i.
