Magazine - 01/03/05

Regardless of the succession of models, BMW's universality resides first and foremost in the quality of its engines. Thus, the new 3 Series, to be unveiled in Geneva in March (and which replaces its older sibling, launched in 1998), will be available in 4 different versions: 3 petrol and 1 diesel. For the time being, the 330i is top of the petrol range, with a 258 bhp V6 engine, i.e. 27 bhp more than on the previous model. This fabulous engine is also incredibly light thanks to the massive use of magnesium, which is a first for a production car. Performance levels are high, with the car doing 0 to 100 kph (0 to 62 mph) in just 6.3 seconds. As for the diesel engine, the 320d goes from 150 to 163 bhp, enabling it to reach 100 kph in just 8.3 seconds, with an average fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100 km (49.6 mpg). Mechanical architecture is another of the BMW's strong points, with two-wheel drive (the 3 Series will also be available in 4-wheel-drive), a longitudinal engine and even distribution of weight between the front and rear axles.
Externally, the dimensions of the 3 Series have increased considerably compared with the old model: the wheelbase is 3.5 cm (1.4 in) longer, the length has increased by 4.9 cm/1.9 in, the width by 7.8 cm/3.1 in, and the height by 0.6 cm/0.2 in. While retaining the proportions of its forebears, the 3 Series therefore rectifies one of the weaknesses, namely the rather mediocre space for a family car (which has not prevented it from being the most popular "family car" in Europe, ahead of the Renault Laguna and Peugeot 407, with 2.9 million sold since 1998).
Aesthetically, this "sporty family" model has the famous "flame design" advocated by BMW styling boss Chris Bangle, with a more harmonious and classic look that is less arrogant. Refined, although a tad austere, the cockpit also has an impressive wood-trim dashboard and central colour screen for the iDrive multimedia system (optional, available up to now only on the 7 Series).
Designed to obtain a 5-star rating in EuroNCAP crash tests, the new 3 Series features numerous technological innovations concerning safety, for example its 6 airbags and Run-flat tyres, which allow you to drive a further 250 km (155 miles) after a puncture. Also of note, the new intelligent brake system, which automatically clears water from the brake disks in wet conditions.