BMW’s upcoming G20 3-Series model will apparently not only feature a front end that’s very reminiscent of the 5-Series, but also a brand new rear end design and a high-tech interior. The all-new BMW 3-Series might take after its larger sibling when it comes to exterior styling, however inside, thanks to this latest batch of spy images, we can tell you that the dashboard and center console design is a little bit different.

There’s a new digital gauge display, which we already knew about, plus a new shifter design, considerably smaller than what we’re used to seeing in other BMW models. It’s actually the same knob found inside the new 8-Series Coupe and the new X7, both of which feature the exact same center console design as the G20 3-Series, a design first seen on the 8-Series Concept.


To summarize, the swivel wheel controls the infotainment system, then we see buttons for the start/stop engine function, parking sensors, video camera, three driving modes (Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro) and more. Move north of the center console and you’ll find the stereo, while above that there’s the climate control system, followed by a pair of air vents. On the 5-Series, the stereo is the one between the vents and the climate control.

BMW’s Operating System 7.0 is coming to the all-new 3-Series, boasting a new layout with more intuitive commands. Users will also benefit from more customization options as well as intuitive modes of operations, such as its ability to switch to a parking map as you’re approaching your destination. The user will operate the system via either the iDrive swivel wheel, via touchscreen, voice or gesture control.

          
Moving on to the rear, this is where things get really interesting, because we might be looking at a completely new rear end design for a BMW saloon. The overall shape of the taillights sort of reminds us of the Audi A4’s, however the bottom part of the cluster also sticks out a little, like on certain BMW concepts and definitely more than on the 7-Series.

Entry-level 3-Series models should continue to utilize 3-cylinder engines, although probably not in North America where the current car is only being sold with four and six-cylinder units. The 3-cylinder engines in question (diesel and petrol) will likely be the BMW Group’s 1.5-liter ones, which we expect to find on 316i and 316d versions of the new 3-Series. Mostly though, it’s going to be 2.0-liter and 3.0-liter units, with four, respectively six cylinders. Also, word has it at least two plug-in hybrid versions will join the range, using electrified 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter engines.


The tip of the spear for the upcoming 3-Series range will wear the M Division’s logo, in one way or another. To start with, there will be an M340i (both rear and all-wheel drive versions) with a 360 HP 3.0-liter turbo inline-six, and an M340d xDrive, with a 320 HP 3.0-liter straight-six diesel. 

As for the flagship model, that’s going to be the M3, which is expected to house a 500 HP straight-six unit with water injection. The all-new 2019 BMW 3-Series is on track to make its official debut sometime later this year.

Cr : Carscoops