BMW Reveals Sixth Generation of 3-Series Sedan [Full Details and 140+ Photos]


It’s official; as promised, BMW unveiled today the brand-new 3-Series codenamed F30. The sixth generation of its compact luxury sedan, which in its five iterations since its launch in 1975 has sold more than 12 million units becoming the standard in its category, will be available to markets worldwide from February 11, 2012.

According to BMW’s CEO, Norbert Reithofer, the new 3-Series is “the sportiest car in its segment and offers sheer driving pleasure at the highest level”.

The sixth generation mid-size BMW has grown considerably compared to its predecessor. It is 93 mm longer and an augmented wheelbase at 2,810 mm (+50mm) as well as wider front (+37 mm) and rear (+47 mm) tracks. The increase in dimensions promises to address one of the model’s disadvantages compared to the competition, namely that of rear passenger space.

The new model now offers 15 mm more legroom and 8 mm more headroom for rear seat passengers. Yet, despite the increase in size, numerous weight saving measures help make the new 3-Series up to 40 kg (88 lb) lighter than the model it replaces (depending on the version).

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