We have undisguised photos of the all-new BMW 3 Series! A BMW brochure with photos and information of the 2006 BMW 3 Series has surfaced on the internet.


Meet the all-new BMW 3 Series!


BMW's next generation 3 Series, code-named E90, is only due to be launched in the first half of 2005. However, the brochure has lifted the cover on the newcomer.

This also hints at a possibility that BMW planned to have a surprise unveiling of the car at next month's Paris Motor Show.

The photos show that BMW decided to play it safe with the all-new 3 Series, keeping the design conservative with styling mostly influenced by the X3 and 1 Series.

BMW didn't introduce the same radical design cues of the 5, 6 and Series models on the 3 Series, which is a big profit earner for the company.

However, the interior of the 2006 3 Series is a showcase of the company's new design direction with simple lines. It is very similar to that of the 5, 6 and 7 Series models. Furthermore BMW's controversial iDrive system is also available on the new 3 Series.

The car has grown in size with an overall length of 4 520cm, offering more interior space especially for rear passengers.

At first there will be three petrol models, 320i, 325i, 330i, and one diesel, 320d, while a 330d and possibly a 335d will follow in 2006. BMW will launch the M3 at the end of 2006.

Petrol engines

320i - 110 kW / 200 Nm
325i - no info
330i - 190 kW / 300 Nm
Diesel engines

320d - 120 kW / 340 Nm
330d - no info
335d - no info

BMW 850Ci please, anyone?

Next BMW 3 Series! Official info, photos! 


After months of speculation, spy photos and even a shock leaked report with undisguised pictures of the next BMW 3 Series, the German car manufacturer has released the first official photos and info of the 2005 BMW 3 Series. We have all the info and a photo gallery!


At last! The all new 2005 BMW 3 Series!
2005 BMW 3 Series gallery
 




The car, the fifth generation 3 Series, will be officially launched at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show.

The new model is larger both outside and inside than before. Overall length is 4 520 mm (49 mm more than before), width measures 1 817 mm (+78 mm), and height is 1 421 mm (+6 mm). It's wheelbase length is 2 760 mm (+ 35 mm).

Its design is kept conservative when compared with other recent new models from Germany. Fortunately it styling hasn't been too much imfluenced by the 7 or 5 Series.

The 2005 3 Series seems to take its design cues from the xActivity concept car, which also inspired the new X3 SUV.

However, BMW decided to make the controversial iDrive system available in the new 3. The car also shares its interior design with thath of the 5, 6 and 7 Series models.

As Wheels24 revealed earlier this year the new BMW 3 Series will at first be available with three petrol power units and one diesel engine.

BMW 330i (Petrol)


Engine size: 3-litre
Power: 190 kW
Torque: 300 Nm between 2500 and 4000 r/min.
0-100 km/h: 6.3 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
Fuel consumption (EU combined cycle): 8.7 litres/100km
BMW 325i (Petrol)

Engine size: 2.5-litre
Power: 160 kW at 6 500 r/min
Torque: 250 Nm between 2 750 and 4 250 r/min
0-100 km/h: no info
Top speed: 245 km/h
Fuel consumption (EU combined cycle): 8.3 litres/100km
BMW 320i (Petrol)

Engine size: 2-litre
Power: 110 kW at 6 200 r/min
Torque: 200 Nm at 3 600 r/min
0-100 km/h: 9.0 seconds
Top speed: 220 km/h
Fuel consumption (EU combined cycle): 7.4 litres/100km
BMW 320d (diesel)

Engine size: 2-litre
Power: 120 kW
Torque: 340 Nm at 2 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 8.3 seconds
Top speed: 225 km/h
Fuel consumption (EU combined cycle): 5.7 litres/100km
Magnesium

In the interest of minimum weight, BMW is using magnesium in the 330i's engine, with a decrease in weight versus aluminium by 30%.

Specifically, magnesium is used on the crankcase, the crankshaft bearings, and on the cylinder head cover.

Another new feature on this six-cylinder is BMW VALVETRONIC varying intake valve opening times and lift infinitely as a function of the accelerator position.

The result is even more efficient use of fuel and even faster engine response.

This technology comes in a team with BMW's double-VANOS variable camshaft adjustment on the intake and outlet valves.

Six-speed transmissions

All models come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox or, as an option, six-speed automatic transmission.

Benefitting from the additional gear, the closer increments, as well as the larger range between the lowest and highest gear, the driver is able to select engine speeds perfectly, each gear merging smoothly into the next.

This is a particular advantage when setting off, with first gear being configured for even more muscle and pulling force.

As with the 1 and 7 Series models the new 3 Series has a start button.

The driver only has to briefly press the starter button in order to start the engine. All other operations then continue automatically without any further intervention.

Enhanced driving dynamics

Reflecting BMW's heritage, the new BMW 3 Series comes with all the characteristic features of the brand. Typical BMW the 3 Series' engine is fitted longitudinally, while drive power is going to the rear wheels.

It also has a perfect axle load distribution of 50:50.

The double-joint front axle newly developed for the 3 Series and made completely of aluminium ensures an optimum balance of driving dynamics and motoring comfort.

Directionaly stability is improved to an optimum, roll noise reduced to a minimum. And despite its low weight, the aluminium front axle is extra stiff and sturdy.

The five-arm rear axle made of lightweight steel, in turn, ensures supreme agility and dynamic handling at all times. Further advantages are precise wheel guidance and very good roll comfort.

Active steering

A unique feature available for the first time in this segment is BMW's active steering coming as an option in the six-cylinder versions of the new BMW 3 Series.

Active steering provides a more direct transmission ratio at low and an indirect ratio at higher speeds.

Now, in the new BMW 3 Series, BMW active steering is being enhanced by an additional feature particularly important in everyday motoring: Whenever you apply the brakes on surfaces with varying frictional coefficients such as spots of ice, snow and asphalt, active steering, actively intervening in the steering control, stabilises the car more quickly and more precisely than a "regular" motorist would ever be able to do.

The car also features BMW's latest-generation DSC Dynamic Stability Control. There is also dual halogen headlights as standard, while of bi-xenon lights with or without an adaptive light function is optional.

Furthermore BMW's two-stage Brake Force Display is also available on the 3 Series. Other standard safety equipment includes six airbags.

The new BMW 3 Series also comes as standard with runflat tyres enabling the driver to continue for up to 250 kilometres after a puncture at a speed of up to 80 km/h.