Seventh-generation compact saloon breaks cover at the Paris motor show with some new design elements for the brand.
What is it with those lights?
These are the first official pictures of BMW’s all-new 3 Series which is making its world debut at the Paris motor show this week.
Codenamed G20, the seventh-generation model of BMW’s all-important saloon is introducing some new design elements for the brand.
The headlamps has a jagged design, while the slim rear lights can probably be best appreciated from only the side.
Note how the “Hoffmeister Kink” on the C-pillars has evolved. The other notable cue is the T-like signature on the front and rear bumpers.
As for the cabin, the 3 Series adopts the latest digital instrument panel, infotainment screen and tidied-up ergonomics first applied in the all-new X5.
The 3 Series is claimed by BMW to have even better driving dynamics than today’s F30-tagged saloon thanks to a raft of improvements under the skin.
While the fabled 50:50 front/rear weight distribution remains, the G20 has a 10mm lower centre of gravity than the F30. Plus, the tracks are wider and there’s increased wheel camber for enhanced handling.
There’s also M Sport suspension with a 10mm lower ride height, 18-inch wheels rimmed with mix-sized tyres, variable sports steering and torque-vectoring control for the rear wheels.
In terms of dimensions, the 3 Series is 85mm longer and 16mm wider than before. The 2,851mm wheelbase, in particular, is 41mm more than ever to outnumber those in the Audi A4, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
BMW says weight has dropped by around 55kg, although the body is more rigid than ever.
What’s the engine range like?
Engines available initially are all the familiar ones equipped with the usual eight-speed automatic transmission. While most are rear-drive, some selected models get all-wheel drive.
The 2.0-litre petrol develops 184hp in 320i and 258hp (up from 252hp, thanks to an upgraded fuel injection) in 330i forms, while the 2.0-litre diesel generates 150hp in 318d and 190hp in 320d guises. A 265hp 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel is also available as 330d.
BMW has also confirmed a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid called 330e iPerformance with 6.0sec 0-100kph time and 60km full-electric driving range. Also due by mid-2019 is the warmed-up M340i serving up to 374hp for a quicker 4.4sec acceleration time.
When is it coming to Thailand?
After making its debut in Paris this week, the new 3 Series is expected to arrive on Thai shores in March next year. Like today’s F30 predecessor, focus will likely be put on diesel and plug-in hybrid models competing in the 2-3 million baht range.
Also due early next year is Volvo’s all-new S60. Although basic models are front-wheel drive, the plug-in hybrid would be four-wheel drive.
The closer rival to the 3 Series is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which has just been launched in Thailand with a facelift. It also sees the return of diesel power in C220d guise before receiving an improved hybrid and battery in the C350e next year.
