Time doesn’t stop in the BMW world, not that it ever does, and several different models are being developed, designed and tested in parallel. The most important vehicle in the BMW lineup is without a doubt the 3 Series; a high-volume seller that represents the core of company’s sales year after year.
Due to launch in 2012, the next generation F30 3er Sedan has already been spotted in the past. Along with the new photos, a series of computer generated images are starting to pop up. One of the first magazines to take a stab at the next 3 Series is the German publication Auto Motor und Sport. In their latest edition, the German magazine gives us a rough, estimate look of what the F30 might look like.
As always, please take these renderings with a grain of salt since most of them are based on spy photos and some inside information.
So, what’s new in the F30 3 Series? First, the sedan will feature shorter overhangs, but at the same time, a longer wheelbase, at least 1.5″ longer than the current generation. Second, the F30 will sport a “pushing nose”, somewhat similar to the E89 Z4 front-end. The hood design will also most likely mimic one found in the Z4 and the new 5 Series, with more aggressive, but still fluent design lines.
With a longer wheelbase, BMW F30 also provides more legroom, both front and rear judging from the door cutline.
BMW will also enable the next 3 Series to feature the very latest in Efficient Dynamics technologies, such as aerodynamically designed wheels , BMW active aerodynamics, solar roof panel for extra energy efficiency in the use of interior controls, brake energy regeneration , stop-start technology , pre-heating technology for the engine, gearbox and differential. Many of the technology powering the new 3 Series, such as the climate control system or telematics, will be completely re-engineered.
Expect to see some new four and six cylinder engines, both petrol and diesel, and even a hybrid version. There were als rumors in the past that an all-electric 3er would be available at some point as well.
For the first time, the BMW 3 Series family takes on another “son”, a 3 Series Gran Turismo built on the same principle as the 5 GT.
The car will debut in 2012 and if we were to listen to the rumormill, the new F30 3 Series is more of a revolutionary car rather than a simple evolution.
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/04/11/rende ... -3-series/