BMW has formally released details of the fifth iteration of the 3-series. Despite the mystery "
leak" that told, and showed, us a lot about the car there is still much of interest. As is the norm with BMW's cars dynamic capability is under scrutiny and the three maintains its familiar front-engine, rear drive layout. The new models are quicker accelerating, faster in a straight line and more fuel-efficient than their predecessors thanks to the latest generation engines fitted as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic is optional.
The top model at launch is the 330i with the 258bhp inline six recently unveiled in
the 630i offering 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds and an electronically limited 155mph maximum. This new six-cylinder engine uses magnesium extensively in its construction for the first time, a trend likely to expand throughout the BMW powerplant range. Proven technologies such as Valvetronic and Bi-Vanos are also fitted, making this the new benchmark engine in its class. The range is to be expanded with a new 325i in 2005, as well as more powerful sporting diesels, more four-cylinder variants and a rumoured 400bhp V8 M3. Much focus is being placed on the economy of the new models with the current best selling version, the 320d, in particular standing out offering 49.6mpg on the combined cycle along with 140mph and 0-62mph in only 8.3 seconds.
The other noticeable advance is in the driver's aids. As well as the familiar DSC traction control system there is now DSC+ that offers features such as 'Brake Standby', 'Soft Stop' and 'Start Off'. Brake Standby charges the brake system when it detects the driver lifting sharply off the throttle. Soft Stop eliminates nose-dive when drawing to a halt. Start Off helps clutch control when pulling away on slopes. Also fitted is a system that detects when the brakes get wet and gently wipes them by applying light brake pressure, ensuring maximum stopping ability in all conditions.
The active steering also works in conjunction with the DSC+ and actually applies a steering input when it detects oversteer. We're not sure how all this trickery must feel on the road; hopefully it will be switchable or the driving fun could be detrimentally affected. Run flat tyres are the only other questionable inclusion; their stiff sidewalls can't help but impact on the 3's ride quality, particularly on bigger rim sizes.
Safety standards also continue to be raised with a full complement of airbags including curtains front and rear, in addition to the dynamic systems listed above. This, aided by the inherent stiffness of the steel shell and improvements to side impact strength mean BMW expect the new 3-series to obtain 5 stars in the NCAP safety tests.
The interior features a version of I-drive for the first time in a 3-series with the now familiar layout of a screen in the centre of the dash to control stereo, navigation and air-con etc. We like I-drive, but its inclusion is a gamble as it may alienate some of the client base, as it can be intimidating at first to the technophobe. In practice we think it works well, and owners should soon find it intuitive to use. Also new is the 'Comfort Access' as seen in the 7-series that replaces the conventional key with a data-storing fob. This can be used to store several sets of driver preferences including seat position and climate control settings as well as data about the car such as service requirements and VIN numbers.
The new 3-series goes on sale in spring 2005, expect prices to increase slightly over today's version. Watch out for our review of the car later in 2005 on the main
Road Tests page.
Dave Jenkins - 29 Oct 2004
