Notice anything different about these pictures of BMW’s 3-Series? If you have spotted the difference, well done; these are the first official pics of the midlife facelifted 3-Series which will enter Scottish showrooms later this year.
In addition to beefier looks, the revised version also gets greened engines and will have the option of BMW’s stunning new seven-speed twin-clutch transmission. Like the new 7-Series which we saw recently, the new 3-Series picks up some of the new family resemblance's which can be seen in the fresh front and rear styling. There’s a new, heavily-profiled front bumper which flows neatly into newly contoured bonnet and reworked headlamps with altered graphics. Pop round the rear of the car and you’ll notice new tail lamps and another revised bumper.
The biggest mechanical change under the bonnet of the newcomer is the introduction of BMW’s seven-speed dual clutch transmission which made its first appearance in the M3 cabriolet. And just for good measure, the 318d also gets the option of a new six-speed automatic.
Environmentalists and 'Greenies' will be pleased to learn BMW will also introduce its new ‘BluePerformance’ brand into the new 3-Series. The first car to carry the BluePerformance label will be a 330d fitted with a NOx trap. So advanced is the technology that the new 3-Series will meet the forthcoming EU6 emissions regulations, not due until 2011. All other engines are carried over from the current car.
It’s no surprise, given the class-leading handling characteristics of the current car, that the facelifted 3-Series will still include the existing suspension and brakes. However the rear track on the six-cylinder cars has been widened by 24mm. In a move which will be welcomed by many owners and buyers, the iDrive controller has been reduced in the complexity stakes and now just has four selection buttons,. There’s also a new, larger colour monitor. And like the new 7-Series, in-car internet access will also be available as part of BMW’s new ConnectDrive technology.
As you would expect, prices and exact specs will not be revealed until nearer its launch date.
