BMW has released information about the new sixth generation BMW 3 Series, the world's best selling premium saloon, including new powertrains and additional EfficientDynamics fuel-saving, emissions-reducing technologies.
All BMW 3 Series Saloon versions will feature Drive Performance control as standard, allowing the drive to switch between up to four driving modes from extremely economical to sporty - ECO PRO, Comfort, Sport and Sport + which is available only on Sport models or as an optional addition.
| Price OTR from | Power Hp | Torque Nm | 0 – 62mph Seconds | Top speed Mph | Combined Mpg | CO2 Emissions g/km | |
| BMW 328i | £29,060 | 245 | 350 | 5.9 (6.1) | 155 | 44.1 (44.8) | 149 (147) |
| BMW 335i | £35,525 | 306 | 400 | 5.5 (5.5) | 155 | 35.8 (39.2) | 186 (169) |
| BMW 320d | £28,080 | 184 | 380 | 7.5 (7.6) | 146 (143) | 62.8 (64.2) | 120 (118) |
| BMW 320d EfficientDynamics | £28,080 | 163 | 380 | 8.0 (8.1) | 143 (141) | 68.9 (68.9) | 109 (109) |
In less than a month, three new engines will be added to the BMW 3 Series range, 316d and 318d diesels, powered respectively by 116hp and 143hp variants of the 2.0-litre diesel engine, and another version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This will deliver 184hp and 270Nm or torque.
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon will feature a stiffer body with an all new chassis with a longer wheelbase at 2810mm and wider tracks - 37mm at the front and 47mm at the rear. Overall length is increased by 93mm.
This increase in dimensions leads to 18mm more feet entry room, 15mm more knee room and 8mm more headroom in the rear. Luggage space is increase by 20 litres to 480 litres.
All BMW 3 Series Saloon models are fitted with light-alloy wheels of at least 17 inches and run-flat tyres and a Tyre Puncture Warning system, with the exception of the 320d EfficientDynamics, which features 16 inch aerodynamic alloys and non-run flat tyres.
Alongside the alloy wheels, models see enhanced standard equipment levels, to include automatic air-conditioning, Bluetooth, BMW Professional radio with 6.5-inch colour screen and iDrive, keyless starting, USB, a multi-function leather steering wheel, cruise control and automatic boot opening.
New safety technologies in the new BMW 3 Series Saloon include a full-colour Head-Up Display displaying the current speed limit, current speed and turn-by-turn indications where a BMW navigation system is fitted.
Dynamic Safety includes seat belt tensioners, automatic window and sunroof closing if an accident seems imminent.
A mobile phone can be used to provide internet access, alongside BMW's new Real Time Traffic Information System, which offers fast and accurate warnings of traffic delays providing alternative routes to avoid them.
The new BMW 3 Series Saloon is planned to go on sale in the UK on 11th February 2012. Toward the end of 2012, BMW will introduce four-wheel-drive and hybrid powertrains for the BMW 3 Series Saloon for the first time in the UK.
