The first spy photos of the next generation BMW 3 Series broke out just a couple of weeks ago. With three years left before the unveiling, several test mules began the lengthy testing process.
The prototypes seen on the road now carry a large amount of plastic camouflage on them that cover the actual design lines. What the photos reveal currently are similar proportions to the current model and a slightly longer wheelbase.
Sources close to BMW mention that the proportions of a typical 3 Series will remain, meaning squat proportions, short rear overhang and wheels placed to each corner.
As seen in the video above, the rear of the car offers a typical BMW layout with the classic L shape lighting units the larger part of the L shaped lights that sits on the corner and wraps around the rear of the car dips at the lower edge this allows for the rear bumper scoop that signifies the tailgate is flush design wise with the dip form of the rear lighting units.
The front of the car receives a widened but not too large kidney grille , smaller than the F10 5er with shapely lighting units surround the grille. design sculpture under the lighting units is less prominent than featured on the Z4 under each headlight unit there is a semi circle shape which in the center allows for a V shaped opening where the kidney grille is placed.
The 3-series is part of a new BMW strategy in which ‘premium’ is defined in terms of environmental compatibility. The 2012 BMW 3 Series is expected to offer impressive aerodynamics.
Like the next 1 Series , the new 3er will take advantage of the new modular platform, again this allows BMW to spin off extra models, make savings in costs and enable production to very efficient.
Some of the design elements seen on the test mule, front and rear bumpers, will most likely be replaced later on in the testing process. What strikes us the most at this time is the longer testing period that BMW is doing at the moment, prior models used to be seen on the public roads one to two years before the official unveiling.
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/11/13/first ... eries-f30/