The BMW 3 Series sedan has been around for over 40 years and the seventh generation model was recently showcased at the Paris Motor Show. Set to raise the bar in just about every department, the all-new car has been built to deliver an exciting driving experience coupled with a slew of innovative features that truly make it stand apart.
New lines
The range has always been about clean sporty lines and that hallmark characteristic continues with the new model as well. Having said that, it looks sleeker, has a massive BMW kidney grille, twin LED headlights with a two-way split, and a front apron that adds a rather sporty touch to the car. The bonnet boasts of a more sculpted look with pronounced contour lines running to the kidney grille, the strong character lines along the side give the car that familiar car-maker look as does the legendary Hofmeister kink at the trailing edge of the rear window. The executive sedan is also longer and wider than its predecessor.
Driver-focused Interior
As is expected from the German brand, the new 3 Series gets a driver-focused cockpit; however, thanks to the larger proportions it now gets a more spacious cabin which is a welcome change. The cabin is finished in quality trims that include wood options and aluminium and there is an ample amount of leather on board as well to ensure you get that quality feel. Key features on board include three-zone air conditioning, BMW Live Cockpit Plus, a reverse parking assistant and a state-of-the-art touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heads-up display, a multi-function sports steering wheel and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. This intelligent on-board concierge system responds to “Hey BMW” and operates various controls by simply speaking. Owners also have the option of renaming their digital assistant to a name of their choice! The car also comes with a digital key which turns your smartphone into that car key using Near Field Communication technology.
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Under the hood
The new vehicle will be offered a choice of petrol and diesel engine options; however, it is the 2.0-litre twin-power diesel engine that is of maximum interest to a market like India. This engine now gets multi-stage turbocharging and churns out 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque. It is touted to be extremely frugal as well, thus giving you the best of both worlds. Paired with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the 320d can go from 0-100 kmph in seven seconds. The new BMW 3 Series will make its market debut in 2019 and is expected to be priced between `45-50 lakh.