To register an entry in the pool of facelifts, BMW was expected to bring on the upgraded version of its 3-Series lineup at the forthcoming IAE 2016. But surprisingly, the company has launched the 3-Series facelift just ahead of the grand event.
The strategy is to garner the maximum attention of enthusiasts and still keep it in the talk during the Expo.
At present, BMW 3-Series is only available in the diesel trim but the petrol variant is planned for introduction later in 2016. The 2.0L twin turbo diesel engine will be continued with the new model as well, which is tuned to derive more power this time.
The 320d 4-cylinder mill with a combination of common rail direct injection is updated to provide an excellent output of 190 hp and a peak torque of 400Nm between 1750-2500rpm.
The motor is further paired to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and accelerates up to the 100km/h mark from standstill in 7.2 seconds.
The top speed achieved by the car is 230 kmph, that is electronically limited.
Apart from the powertrains, the facelift version of BMW 3-Series appears to be more or less identical to the earlier trim for its overall blueprint.
On the technical front, Bluetooth & USB connectivity, BMW Apps, Radio Professional and BMW ConnectDrive are carried forward from the existing model.
Moreover, the functioning of the front seats remains electrically adjustable.
Five Drive modes, ECO, PRO, Comfort, Sport and the Sport+ are also inherited from the previous version and Brake Energy Regeneration along with Auto Start Stop help gain decent fuel economy figures.
If we look at the modifications done to the new BMW 3-Series, the car features a completely new LED headlamp cluster along with LED DRLs and LED fog lamps at the front. At the rear, new LED taillights are fitted.
The car will roll over a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels, adorning a different design.
Where mild cosmetic alterations are found on the exteriors of the sedan, more comprehensive changes are seen inside.
A new heads-up display with 3D graphics is inclined and a new navigation system is integrated with GPS now.
Moreover, an 8.8-inch display is available in high resolution.
The new M Sport kit consists M leather steering wheel and seats upholstery along with the exclusive Estoril Blue metallic hues. On the safety part, the Park Assistant feature enables automatic parallel parking.
According to Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India, it's been almost four decades that a modern sports sedan segment was established by the BMW 3-Series. Now the car is being sold as a premium vehicle worldwide.
The sporty character makes a note to the brand name and the same will be continued for its design, performance and incomparable efficiency.
This further will settle new standards in the luxury car segment in India. Moreover, the 360-degree program provides both flexibility and affordability to customers.
The price range for the new BMW series lies between INR 35.90L-44.50L (ex-showroom, Delhi). As follows:
The new BMW 3-Series will lock horns with Mercedes-Benz C-class and Audi A4. The sedan will share the podium with the 7-series and X1 SUV at the upcoming Auto Expo.
The model will be assembled in the Chennai plant where 50 percent of its parts are local and 50 percent are imported.