BMW Details 2012 Model Year Equipment Changes Across Range
BMW has updated standard and optional equipment for its 2012 model year, affecting the 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series and M models with new features, revised packages and powertrain options.
BMW introduced a series of model-specific equipment changes for the 2012 model year, affecting standard features, option packages and available powertrains across its core 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series and M models. The updates rolled out from March 2011 production, with further adjustments from September 2011.
BMW Apps and Smartphone Integration Changes
For 2012, BMW Apps became available as a stand-alone option across the range for $250. With this change, Smartphone Integration was removed as a separate option and included within BMW Apps, streamlining connectivity features for buyers.
1 Series: Standard Equipment and Package Revisions
The 2012 model year for the 1 Series (128i and 135i) began with March 2011 production. All models received an iPod/USB adapter as standard, with power seats and lumbar support also standardised on 135i Coupes and Convertibles. Convertibles now included a through-load feature, and the 128i Convertible upgraded to a 17-inch Star-spoke wheel, replacing the previous 16-inch unit. The 128i Coupe also adopted the 17-inch wheel as standard, while the 135i Convertible gained an 18-inch V-spoke wheel with mixed-size performance tyres.
Optionally, automatic transmission became a no-cost choice on 128i Coupe and Convertible models, and the price for the double clutch transmission was reduced on 135i variants. New exterior colours, Vermillion Red Metallic and Marrakesh Brown Metallic, were introduced, and Oyster Boston Leather replaced Lemon Boston Leather. Alpine White trim was added as a no-charge option across the line.
The Sport Package was eliminated for 135i Coupes and Convertibles, and the Value Package (which included leather and iPod/USB) was dropped from all models. The Premium Package now included leather as standard, with power seats and lumbar support removed from the package for 135i models as these became standard equipment. The Cold Weather Package no longer included through-load for convertibles (now standard) or a ski bag for coupes.
From September 2011 production, hands-free Bluetooth and floor mats were made standard on all 1 Series models.
3 Series: Transmission and Package Updates
For the 3 Series, BMW made the automatic transmission a no-cost option on all models except the 335d, where it was already standard. The double clutch transmission cost was lowered for the 335is Coupe and Convertible. The M Sport Package replaced the previous Sport Package on Coupes and Convertibles, and 17-inch all-season tyres became standard on Coupe xDrive models.
5 Series: New Engine and All-Wheel Drive Expansion
BMW Apps became a stand-alone option for the 5 Series, with Smartphone Integration now included in the package. The 528i introduced a new TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine to the US market, featuring direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, double VANOS, and VALVETRONIC. Auto Start/Stop became standard on both the 528i and 535i. xDrive all-wheel drive was made available for the 528i Sedan, expanding drivetrain options for buyers.
6 Series: New Models, xDrive and Premium Options
The 6 Series line expanded for 2012, with the 650i Coupe (4.4-litre twin-turbo V8) joining the Convertible from July production. Both gained a wider range of options, including an M Sport Package, full LED headlights and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. From September 2011, these options were also available on the 650i Convertible.
xDrive all-wheel drive became available for both 650i Coupe and Convertible. BMW quoted a 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds for the 650i xDrive Coupe, 0.2 seconds quicker than the rear-wheel drive version, and 4.8 seconds for the xDrive Convertible, 0.1 seconds quicker than its RWD counterpart.
The 640i Coupe and Convertible featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 315hp and 330lb ft of torque, with a 0-60mph time of 5.5 seconds. Auto Start/Stop was standard, though EPA fuel economy figures were not available at launch.
7 Series and ActiveHybrid 7: Equipment and Package Adjustments
March 2011 production saw the 7 Series (740i/Li, 750i/Li, including xDrive, and ALPINA B7) gain iPod/USB adapters, a sport steering wheel and rear-view camera as standard. V8 models added 19-inch wheels with all-season tyres and a premium hi-fi system. The Driver Assistance Package now included side and top-view cameras, and on 740i/Li and 750i/Li (including xDrive), a head-up display. The M Sport Package no longer included Active Roll Stabilisation, and the price was reduced on certain models due to 19-inch wheels becoming standard.
The ActiveHybrid 7, which remained a 2011 model through March 2011 production, received new 19-inch wheels and an iPod/USB adapter as standard. Several features were moved from standard to optional, including the anthracite headliner, leather dashboard, head-up display, and active or ventilated front seats. The Luxury Seating Package became available, and a 6-disc DVD changer was added to the Rear Seat Entertainment Package. ActiveHybrid 7 and 760Li models switched to 2012 model year specification with September 2011 production.
M3 Sedan: Bundled Options for Final Production Months
The M3 Sedan ended production in October 2011 with no changes to standard equipment. Optional features such as BMW Assist, iPod/USB adapter and Smartphone Integration were bundled into a single package, priced at $750. The optional navigation system was also combined with iPod/USB and Bluetooth.
Summary Table: Key 2012 BMW Model Year Changes
| Model | Standard Equipment Changes | Option/Package Changes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Series | iPod/USB, Bluetooth, floor mats, power seats (135i) | Auto transmission no-cost, Sport/Value Packages dropped |
| 3 Series | Auto transmission no-cost, 17-inch tyres (xDrive) | M Sport replaces Sport, cheaper double clutch |
| 5 Series | TwinPower Turbo 4-cyl (528i), Auto Start/Stop | xDrive for 528i, BMW Apps option |
| 6 Series | 650i Coupe joins, 640i launches, xDrive added | M Sport, LED headlights, Bang & Olufsen sound |
| 7 Series | iPod/USB, sport wheel, rear camera, 19-inch wheels | Driver Assistance update, M Sport Package revised |
| M3 Sedan | No standard change | Options bundled, navigation package revised |
