Revised BMW G20/G21 3 Series Saloon and Touring has arrived
A revised G20 3 Series Saloon and Touring has arrived with a choice of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains – and two BMW Performance models.
NEW 3 SERIES REVEALED
BMW has revealed a new 3 Series with refreshed exterior styling, a modernised cabin and the latest digital technology. The Saloon and Touring models give the G20 generation of 3 Series a fresh lease of life, the changes on the outside are mild with a revised kidney grille and slimmer full-LED headlights, the daytime driving lights are arranged in an inverted L shape and also serve as indicators. When it comes to powertrains things are pretty much 'business as usual' with a choice of six; four petrol engines including one plug-in hybrid variant (with 48V mild hybrid technology), and two diesel engines – both with mild-hybrid technology. Power units are mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission – now standard on all versions. Two BMW Performance models from BMW M – the M340i and M340d – top the range while the 320i is now the entry-level option with the 318i and 318d discontinued. BMW xDrive all-wheel drive comes as standard on the range-topping models, it is an option on selected other variants.
Across all of the new cars comes a revised front apron which seeks to add a «sporty appearance» according to BMW, 17-inch alloy wheels come as standard with M Sport models getting 18-inch wheels, BMW Performance models 19-inch alloys. Talking of M Sport versions the UK market gets a choice of Sport and M Sport specification, M Sport models get chrome accents on the kidney grille and an M-specific rear apron, Supporting the look come performance upgrades. M Sport models feature M Sport suspension including variable sport steering (with the exception of plug-in hybrid variants) and those aforementioned newly designed 18-inch M light wheels in staggered sizes. M Sport trim also includes a few desirable interior touches including an anthracite headliner, M leather steering wheel, M-specific upholstery and interior trim in the new Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite finish. The M Sport Pro Pack – only on M Sport models – is a package that adds 'sprint mode' as well as extended M High-gloss Shadowline trim, a Black kidney grille surround and tailpipes in Black Chrome, as well as M lights Shadowline, an M Sport braking system with red callipers, a black M rear spoiler (Saloons), and seat belts with contrasting stitching. It's a similar story with the BMW Performance models which get their own styling cues to set them apart.
Across the board the range of exterior colours has been expanded to include Skyscraper Grey metallic and Brooklyn Grey metallic for M Sport models, BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic and Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic special paint finishes have also been added to the range.
Inside the new model features the latest BMW Curved Display – bringing it into line with newer models like the iX, it features the latest BMW Operating System 8. In fact the interior is arguably where the most obvious changes over the old version occur, indeed BMW calls is a 'comprehensive update'. It's led by a 12.3-inch display behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch control display which merge into a single – fully digital – unit.
The new 3 Series Saloon and Touring will begin production in July at BMW's plants in Munich and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Available to order now at BMW Retailers, pricing starts from £36,670 (320i) rising to £52,965 (M340i and M340d xDrive).