As we’ve come to expect from BMW’s Russian doll
design philosophy, the latest-generation 3-Series will bear a striking
resemblance to the current 5-Series. In fact, as these spy shots reveal, it
will simply look like a slightly smaller 5-Series from most angles.
With this in mind, we can see an all-too-familiar
front fascia beneath the camouflage that incorporates enlarged headlights with
a new DRL design. The M340i and the M Sport models get more complex front
bumpers with additional openings.
The changes don’t stop here. Look at the rear and
you’ll notice a comprehensively modified trunk lid with a prominent lip at the
rear. The taillights are also different to what we’re accustomed to from a 3er
and our sources suggest they will adopt a different graphic set to eventually
find its way into other BMW models.
Again, the M340i and the M Sport
models get a different bumper at the back along with re-positioned reflectors,
while the M340i also stands out thanks to the M550-like exhaust trims and dark
alloy wheels, as well as a more lowered suspension.
Sadly, we don’t have any images of the vehicle’s
interior. However, a digital gauge cluster like that from the 5-Series should
be present but for the most part, don’t expect any evolutionary changes that
make the cabin as plush as the C-Class.
Based on BMW’s latest CLAR (cluster architecture)
platform found on all their recent models, the new, lighter 3-Series will
continue with 3-cylinder engines on their base offerings, albeit not in North
America, where it will be sold exclusively with four- and six-cylinder units.
In Europe and other markets, we’ll see the entry-level petrol and diesel models
(316i and 316d) sharing the group’s familiar (from other models like the
2-Series and MINIs) 1.5-liter 3-cylinder units.
The overhauled BMW 3-Series should be revealed
before the year is out.
Cr : Carscoops
