Due for its local launch next year, the 3 Series is the most important model in BMW’s line-up. So while the marque often experiments with the design of other, more niche models, it is understandable that playing it safe is the name of the game when it comes to the 3. Essentially, the new C-Class fighter looks like a smaller 5 Series, with the same headlight treatment and character lines on the bonnet.This image comes courtesy of Spanish site, www.bmwfaq.com.
What else is known of the new F30-coded 3 Series? Well, as can be seen in the overhead picture, heads-up-display (HUD) will be offered, as well as the new free-standing iDrive display that debuted on the 1 Series. A Land-departure warning system will also feature. Production starts in Germany in November, and we expect the new car to be on sale in South Africa before the middle of 2012. As before, new 3 Series will be built in Rosslyn, Pretoria, too. The 3 Series line-up (as it debuts internationally) is likely to initially comprise of 328i and 335i models. The 328i will be powered by the ‘N20’ turbo four-cylinder inline engine. The South African line-up is likely to kick off more complete, with diesel engines included.
We also recently reported on the next-generation M3, reportedly to pack an in-line six-cylinder engine with three turbos.