Very first spyshots BMW 3-series

Wednesday November 4 2009 - Hans

BMW’s marketing machine continues to pull forward and today, we have the first images of the next generation BMW 3-series which will be launched in 2012. While the details have been very sketchy up to this point, we’re glad to see that BMW decided to satisfy our curiosity by releasing some general details.

The proportions of a typical 3-series, evident since the E36 through to the E46 and currently the E90, will remain – meaning squat proportions, short rear overhang and wheels placed to each corner. The overall look will be slimmer and more toned compared to the current 3 series. The typical BMW glasshouse remains with the new design link of a shadow Hofmeister kick as featured on the 7-series and X1. The front of the car receives a widened but not too large kidney grille, smaller than at the current 5-series with shapely lighting units surrounding the grille. Under each headlight unit there is a semi circle shape which in the centre allows for a V shaped opening where the kidney grille is placed. The rear of the car offers a typical BMW layout with the classic L-shape lighting units.

Sedan, Touring, Coupe & Cabrio
The Coupe and Cabrio models will again take on a different appearance from the Sedan and Touring. Again the front and rear appearance will separate from the sedan with unique shaped lighting units and design sculpture. The Cabrio will retain the folding hardtop as BMW have found today’s model to be the most successful 3-series cabrio ever. Customers also like how the hardtop E93 has successful retained a coherent design instead of sitting under the A-pillar or having the rear end raised to accommodate the roof.


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New platform
Like the 1-series, the new 3-series will take advantage of the new modular platform, again this allows BMW to spin off extra models, makes savings in costs and enables production to be very efficient. BMW will also enable the next 3-series to feature the very latest in Efficient Dynamics technologies – like the 1-series there will be an active hybrid model using a range extended 3 cylinder engine connected to an electric motor as well as lightweight resistance tires, aerodynamically designed alloy wheels, BMW’s active aerodynamics, solar roof panel for extra energy efficiency in the use of interior controls, brake energy regeneration, stop-start and pre-heating technology for the engine, gearbox and differential.