BMW 3 Series

As the company’s best-selling model, it certainly attracts the attention of customers. The sixth generation of the BMW 3 Series, first shown to the world in late 2011, was brought to the market in 2012, and the exterior is strongly influenced by the F10 5 Series.

Exterior

The new BMW 3 series shows improvements in every department, including exterior and interior design. Without straying too far from the classic form, BMW have added some stylish touches, adding musculature to an already bold design. The car now features an expansive kidney-shaped grille and broader headlights. The addition of two striking lines down the car’s flanks gives it a sharp, sporty look, and the enlarged bonnet is more masculine, even aggressive. The car’s rear retains the classic BMW shape, but its expanded boot-lid is clearly inspired by the 5 series. The 3 series has been lengthened by almost 100mm, with a wider wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks.

Interior

Inside the 3 series, a number of small modifications update the design for increased comfort and style. The dashboard has been tilted toward the driver, and enhanced with a range of textures that create a 3D layered appearance. In the 328i, the ‘Sport’ edge now features a bold scarlet stripe running the full length of the front. Above the center console is the widescreen infotainment screen. The newly added iDrive system has been updated.

Comfort and Convenience

The addition of a ‘Drive Performance Control’ option enables a quick shift from Sport to Comfort. The increased size of the wheelbases provides greater legroom at the rear, and the seats have been enhanced to offer greater leg support and a more ergonomic back-rest. Previous incarnations of the 3 Series have suffered from a lack of foot room, but the new design corrects this issue. The front seats are wide, comfortable and offer plenty of shoulder support.

Dashboard and Storage

The slick, stylish, well laid out dashboard takes its cue from the highly successful 5 Series. All of its materials feel and look classy and durable, with a choice of wood or metallic trim inserts. There is ample storage: deep pockets in the doors, an expansive glove box and numerous cup holders, plus the wide 480-liter loading bay, which is on a level with the Audi A4.

Music System

The 3 Series comes equipped with a sophisticated infotainment system, including connected apps for your iPhone, email and text message dictation, Bluetooth Office, full internet access with live updates and an optional Harman Kardon Sound System offering total 3D sound.

Engine and Gearbox

New BMW 3-series is available in both petrol and diesel. The petrol variant is powered by a 1997cc Twinpower Turbo engine; it generates maximum power of 245 bhp at 5000 rpm with maximum torque of 350 nm at 1250 rpm. The diesel variant is powered by a 1995cc Twinpower Turbo engine; it generates maximum power of 181 bhp at 4000 rpm with maximum torque of 380 nm at 1750 rpm. Both the engines are mated to eight-speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration and Performance (0-100 kmph plus Top Speed)

The performance of the 3 series is superb. The car jumps from 0-100kph in a sizzling 6.1 seconds, with 180kph in 22.1 seconds, and a maximum speed of 250kph. Of the available options, most drivers will appreciate the diesel engines most. The 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine of the 320d is speedy and highly flexible, while the equivalent engine in the 328i is responsive but can feel strained. The 335i’s 3.0-turbocharged engine revs beautifully and is very fast and flexible. On the whole, the engines are smooth revving, although when cold the 4-cylinder diesel engines produce considerable noise.

Mileage

Thanks to the new lightweight, 8-speed gearbox in the 3 series, in addition to the smart Eco Pro mode and auto stop-start system help to make it an unbeatably efficient vehicle in its class. The 320d gives 11.1 kmpl in the city and 15.5 kmpl, and the 328i gives 7.5 kmpl in the city and 12.5 kmpl on highways. The running costs of the 320d’s diesel engine is impressive given the power output, particularly if you opt for the EfficientDynamics options, which doesn’t significantly impact performance.

Safety Features

As standard, the 3 Series includes 6 airbags. The Dynamic Stability Control includes ABS, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Traction Control. Buyers can choose the Active Security Package, which includes lane departure and lane change warnings.

Suspension and Braking

The 3 series offers capable suspension that absorbs most shocks and provides an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride. In the diesel, the underlying firmness of the car’s suspension means that it can get quite loud. The 328i in particular is seamless on a variety of road surfaces.

Ride and Handling

The new 3 series handles beautifully and offers a top-notch ride. Drivers who choose the standard suspension options and setup may find themselves somewhat disappointed with the results. At lower speeds, the 3 Series feel unsettled: there’s an excessive degree of body rolling around corners, and some vertical movement when braking hard. However, if you opt for the cars’ adaptive dampers as an optional extra, in that case the 3 Series is one of the best rides in its class.

Shades Available

New BMW 3-Series is available in ten shades: Black Sapphire, Havana, Melbourne Red, Glacier Silver, Imperial Blue, Orion Silver, Mineral White, Sparkling Bronze, Mineral Grey and Liquid Blue.

Accessories

The BMW 3 Series has a range of accessories available: rear spoilers, star spokes, mud flaps, wheel bolt locks, snow chains and winter wheel and tyre sets, decorative wheel trims, handbrake grips, key holders and lever knobs.

Reasons to Buy and Value for Money

The 3 Series is a versatile, high-performance vehicle with capable suspension, smooth handling, exceptional acceleration and plenty of intuitive features to suit every driver. The vehicle’s low running costs and high performance mean that it represents excellent value for money.

Verdict

The brand-new 3 Series is an excellent all-rounder vehicle: spacious inside yet sleek and compact outside, offering excellent performance at a low running cost, and a truly enjoyable ride.