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BMW shows off new 3 series

BMW has put its next-generation BMW 3 Series sedan prototype to the test at legendary Nürburgring. 
Posted on 22 August, 2018
BMW shows off new 3 series

The next-generation BMW 3 Series Sedan is scheduled to be on debut in a couple of months at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.

In the lead-up, BMW has launched its teaser campaign, releasing the latest photos and initial details of the camouflaged prototype. 

The images show the car undergoing final endurance testing at the legendary Nordschleife at Nürburgring. BMW says the centre of gravity has been dropped by 10 millimetres compared with the previous generation, the weight will be an even 50:50 distribution and the total weight adjusted for fittings is as much as 55 kilograms less.

A particularly extensive testing programme was developed for the camouflaged prototypes of the new BMW 3 Sedan. 

The new car also has wider tracks and can be specced to have 18-inch lightweight alloys as well as an optional M sports suspension that lowers the car a further 10 millimetres. 

In terms of the engine portfolio, BMW has thoroughly revised 4-cylinder petrol engine. It is the most powerful 4-cylinder engine ever to be fitted in a BMW series production model.

Yet its fuel consumption figures are still some 5 per cent below those of the predecessor engine: one contributing factor here is the further developed 8-speed steptronic transmission. Furthermore, the addition of a particulate filter optimises the emissions response of the new engine, enabling it to meet the Euro 6d-TEMP exhaust standard.

Lift-related dampers are another addition for the new 3 Series, which work continuously and progressively in relation to the spring travel to neutralise road bumps as they come.

"This means the difference from the standard suspension is much more perceptible than before," says Peter Langen, head of driving dynamics.

"We've also made the M sports suspension much sportier, with more rigid bearings and stabilisers, harder springs and additional body struts."