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BMWBLOG and BimmerToday bring you the first spy video of the 2012 BMW 3 Series showing the car entering the Final Evaluation Phase where the camouflage slowly comes off. Along with spy video, we also have exclusive shots revealing some design cues.

The F30 3 Series Sedan is an evolution of the current E90 bodystyle, but with plenty of design lines and elements from the F10 5 Series. As we mentioned before, the new 3er can be described as a scaled down 5 Series, but with unique lines that will make it distinctive.

Just like the F20 BMW 1 Series, the F30 3 Series receives additional signal indicators placed on the side mirrors. The corona rings are different from the current generation E90 due to a new design and a “squared” look.

The side design sports a double shoulder line that starts above the front wheel arch and extends to the rear. Despite the complicated and demanding pedestrian safety regulations, BMW managed to keep the car’s nose sitting low, offering a more dynamic look.

The L-shape form will remain a BMW design core element in the taillights. With an evolutionary design, a common trait in the BMW design cycle, the new 2012 3 Series will appeal to an even broader audience and will have a positive effect on sales.

Based on the sound captured with the spy video, we believe we are looking a prototype running with a six-cylinder engine. In the new 3 Series, we expect the top model to remain labeled as the 335i, but this time powered by the N55 engine used in the 640i model which produces 320 horsepower.

The new 3 Series will use four and six-cylinder powerplants. Both are making use of the twin-scroll turbocharged technology. With the exception of the base engines, all models will come equipped with the eight-speed ZF automatic transmission that offers not only great performance, but also a lower fuel consumption.

BMW will officially introduce the F30 3 Series later this summer.

Author: Horatiu Boeriu
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/05/04/first ... ies-sedan/