BMW Updates The 3 Series Coupe And Convertible For 2010

It’s nip/tuck time for the 3 Series Coupe and Convertible, so there’s some very good new engines to choose from, and some really bling new LED lights.

If the BMW M3 is too aggressive for you, but the standard 3 too ordinary, the 3 Series Coupe does a pretty fine job of offering stylish cruisability and effortless pace in just the right amount. And BMW’s just had a crack at making it a bit better.

Styling tweaks
BMW has done the usual facelift stuff, so there’s no metalwork changes, just new bumpers, paint colours and side sills. But the most questionable alterations are the new, Footballers Wives headlights, which have both white LED corona rings and a new illuminated eyebrow above each. At least it makes the latest 3 more recognisable when it’s bearing down on you in the outside lane. The M3 will get these too.

And the engines…
The 3 Coupe and Convertible’s engines now all meet the jolly EU5 regulations, and there are new entry-levels lumps for both cars - from the launch in March there’ll be a new 318i, powered by a 143hp 2.0-litre petrol to go for.

The rest of the engine range remains pretty similar in terms of power outputs, but mpg figures have been improved and CO2 emissions reduced across the range, so that’s good.

The standard 3 Series in 2010
It’s not just the swanky coupe that’s received all the attention for the 2010 model year. BMW has introduced a new entry level 115hp 316d Touring. The mighty impressive 320d EfficientDynamics arrives too – it’s 163hp 2.0-litre diesel returns 68.9mpg and emits just 109g/km of CO2. There’s no EfficientDynamics Coupe or Convertible though.

Price-wise
The 3 Series Coupé now starts at £27,845 for the 320i SE, rising to £52,730 for the M3. And if you aren’t fussed about arriving at your destination with your hair messed up, the Convertible ranges from £32,905 to £56,740.