BMW 3 Series Coupe facelifted test mules continue to be seen during testing sessions. The E92 and E93 life cycle impulse models will make their debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010 with U.S. sales commencing in April 2010.
The latest spy photos show us again that the major changes in this LCI are around the headlights. The upcoming models will feature a slightly different design with the headlights now embedded in the front apron and have a downward curvature at the outer edge, as is clearly visible in our image comparison below.
Furthermore, for the first time the prototypes seem to feature new and brighter Angel Eyes, as seen in the new 5 Series. These rings are now LED daytime running lights powered by its lighter color and are even more obvious than before.
Apart from that, we expect headlights LED flashers like the E90 facelift, and the now typical “eyebrow” at the top of the headlights, similar to the one in the 7 Series, Z4 roadster, X1 or the new 5.
At the rear-end, we expect, as with any new other models, a slight L-shape of the light rod which will give the facelift models of E92 and E93 an unmistakable night-time look. Looking at the spy photos, the kidneys are slightly flattened at the top and they held just 13 grilles from the usual 14th on the current model. As with all the new models and thanks to the EU safety pedestrian regulations, much larger exterior mirrors caught our attention.
Front and rear aprons and side skirts are also rumored to received slight changes. Even though not featured here, one of the prototypes spotted was carrying the Vermillion Red pain that was not previously offered for the E92 models.
Engine wise, several rumors have been floating on the internet, but so far none of them confirmed by BMW. It is still uncertain on whether the new N55 twin-scroller turbo will be used or just an upgraded version of the current twin-turbo N54.
The upcoming 5 Series includes the new four-cylinder diesel engine with 184 horsepower, but once again, we’re unclear if this engine will be used in the current 3 Series line-up.
With a world premiere in Geneva, the first official photos should hit the web sometimes in January.
[Source: e90post ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/12/04/led-a ... -facelift/