Following the launch of the redesigned 5- and 7-Series, BMW is hard at working putting the finishing touches on the new 3-Series.
Spy photographers have snapped prototypes on numerous occasions, but little is known about the upcoming sedan. Until now, that is, as AMS magazine is reporting the car will be about 6cm (2.3 inches) longer than its predecessor with about 2cm (0.7 inches) of that being due to the longer wheelbase.
The interior is expected to get a makeover and the number of buttons in the cabin is slated to be reduced. The car will also be equipped with the latest iDrive infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster on higher end variants.
BMW has been making a conscious effort to make its vehicles lighter and the 3-Series isn’t an exception. The model will ride on the CLAR platform and the report suggests the car will weigh around 40 kg (88 lbs) less than its predecessor.
A variety of different engines will be able with rumors suggesting an assortment of three-, four-, and six-cylinder options. The gasoline units are expected to receive a minor performance boost as well as reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. The company could also offer a couple of plug-in hybrid variants with an electric range of up to 50 km (31 miles).
Buyers looking for something more powerful will reportedly be rewarded with a 340i M Performance, which is designed to battle the Mercedes C43 AMG. There could also be a 340d M Performance with all-wheel drive and a diesel engine developing around 320 PS (315 hp / 235 kW).
The next-generation BMW M3 is still way into the future, but early reports suggest it will have an electric motor mounted between the engine and the transmission. The car is also slated to have a 48-volt electrical system, additional lightweight components and an output of around 460 PS (453 hp / 338 kW).
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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