BMW 3 Series Facelift Debuts at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show
The updated 3 Series brings revised styling, new engines and a plug-in hybrid option as BMW responds to fresh competition from Mercedes and Audi.
BMW has given its 3 Series a mid-cycle update for the 2016 model year, unveiling the revised saloon and Touring estate at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. The facelift introduces new engines, sharper technology and subtle design changes as BMW aims to keep pace with the latest Mercedes C-Class and the newly launched Audi A4.
Subtle exterior changes and technology upgrades
The cosmetic revisions are restrained, with BMW focusing on details rather than dramatic restyling. The front and rear aprons have been reworked, and both the headlights and taillights now use full-LED technology. New alloy wheel designs and paint colours are offered across the range. Inside, the 3 Series benefits from improved materials, a revised full-colour head-up display and an updated Navigation Professional system with faster processing and more realistic 3D graphics. BMW has also added 4G LTE connectivity and an upgraded Parking Assistant capable of automatic parallel parking.
Engine range: new six-cylinder and plug-in hybrid
The 2016 3 Series introduces a new 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six in the 340i, replacing the outgoing 335i. With 326 PS and 450 Nm of torque, the 340i is now the most powerful non-M3 variant in the line-up. The entry-level 320i also sees a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 184 PS and 290 Nm. Diesel options span from 116 PS to 313 PS, all meeting Euro 6 emissions standards.
BMW’s addition of the 330e plug-in hybrid is a direct answer to the growing demand for electrified saloons in this segment. The 330e delivers a combined 252 PS and 420 Nm, with a claimed fuel consumption of 2.1 litres per 100 km and an electric-only range of 35 km. This broadens the 3 Series appeal for company car drivers and private buyers seeking low emissions and running costs.
Positioned against new rivals
The Frankfurt debut comes as Mercedes and Audi launch new generations of their respective rivals. With incremental changes rather than a radical overhaul, BMW is relying on its broad engine range, improved technology and the new plug-in hybrid to keep the 3 Series competitive. The facelifted model continues to be offered in both saloon and Touring estate forms.
For more on the competition at Frankfurt, see our coverage of the 2015 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show’s hottest reveals (part 1).
