New BMW 3 Series

BMW hosted the World Premier of the new 3 Series saloon in Munich this week.

BMW’s new 3 Series will attempt to deliver the same level of luxury as the latest BMW 5 Series but in a compact, more affordable package. Designers have taken few risks with the new model's appearance however.

Under the bonnet, the base model BMW 316d saloon will be powered by the same 1.6-litre diesel engine originally fitted in the MINI. Capable of almost 75mpg, the entry-level model will also be the most fuel efficient BMW on sale.

Lower spec models will receive a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, with automatic transmissions available higher up the range.
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In addition to coupe, convertible and estate versions, the new model will also be available as a hatchback GT and four-door coupe, later in its life.

There is also talk of both hybrid and four-wheel drive XDrive versions, still currently under development.

When the new model goes on sale in the UK in March 2012, the new BMW 3 Series will face stiff competition from the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 and new Jaguar X-Type, planned for 2014.

CarBuyer’s full review of the new BMW 3 Series will follow shortly.

To view the full BMW range, visit CarBuyer’s BMW review page.