BMW unveils 2012 3 Series with new engines and more space
BMW has revealed its 2012 3 Series, introducing new engines, improved efficiency and increased cabin space, with UK pricing and technical details now confirmed.
BMW has officially unveiled the 2012 3 Series, releasing full technical details, pricing and the first official photos of its new-generation saloon. The reveal took place online, with BMW confirming a broader engine range, improved efficiency and a larger interior for the F30-generation model.
The new 3 Series arrives with a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines, including the 320d diesel, which opens the range in the UK at £25,730. The 335i petrol, with its turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 306 hp, tops the initial line-up at £33,280. BMW has also confirmed that the 316d and 318d diesels, rated at 116 hp and 143 hp respectively, will join the range within a month of launch. The 320i, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 184 hp and 270 Nm of torque, starts at £24,880.
Efficiency and driving modes
BMW has fitted every new 3 Series with automatic stop/start and its Driving Experience Control system. Drivers can select between COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and the new ECO PRO mode, which BMW claims can cut fuel consumption by up to 20 percent depending on driving style.
The 320d EfficientDynamics Edition is the most economical model at launch, returning an official 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 109 g/km of CO2. This version produces 163 hp from its 2.0-litre diesel engine, balancing performance and efficiency. The 335i, meanwhile, manages between 35.8 and 39.2 mpg depending on specification, with CO2 emissions from 169 g/km.
Interior and technology upgrades
The F30 3 Series gains extra cabin space, with BMW stating that rear passengers benefit from improved legroom compared to the outgoing model. Boot capacity is also increased, addressing a common criticism of the previous generation. The new model shares some design elements and technology with the larger 5 Series, including the latest iDrive system and optional head-up display.
All versions come with a suite of standard equipment, including Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control and a multi-function steering wheel. Buyers can also specify options such as adaptive suspension, advanced navigation and a range of driver assistance features. For a closer look at the interior, see theleaked images from before the official debut.
Future additions to the 3 Series range
BMW has confirmed that additional variants will join the line-up shortly after launch. The Touring estate was previewed ahead of its 2013 release, and a coupe successor will arrive as the new 4 Series, shifting the two-door models into a separate range. A hybrid version of the 3 Series is also planned for autumn 2012, expanding the powertrain choices further.
- 320d EfficientDynamics Edition: 163 hp, 68.9 mpg, 109 g/km CO2
- 335i: 306 hp, 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds, 35.8–39.2 mpg
- 320i: 184 hp, 44.8 mpg, 147 g/km CO2
With the new 3 Series, BMW aims to maintain its position in the premium saloon segment, offering a broader engine range, lower running costs and improved comfort. The F30 will compete with rivals such as the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, with first deliveries scheduled for early 2012.
