BMW is making a series of updates to its existing range this Spring. As well as changes to engine and drivetrain specs BMW is introducing exterior and interior upgrades for various models.
The model receiving the most engine changes is the 3 Series. Four new engines will be available from March; ranging from a new entry-level 1.6-litre petrol unit, to the range-topping unit in the 335i. Both engines feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with the latter managing 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds whilst returning 34.9mpg. The two other engines can be found in the 325d and 320d EfficientDynamics models. The 320d is expected to be the most popular; as the four-cylinder diesel unit manages 65.7mpg on the combined cycle. The 320d still manages a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds.
Sticking with the 3 Series, BMW's all-wheel drive xDrive system will also be introduced across the range. The 320d and 330d models will be available with xDrive in both saloon and Touring guises, as will an entry-level petrol version of the saloon - the 320i.
BMW is also making changes to the 1 Series. As well as introducing xDrive to the 120d five-door, efficiency improvements are going on under the bonnet of the 116i SE and 116d. CO2 figures are down to 125- and 109g/km respectively, reducing BIK rates for both models.
Spring 2013 will also see the first petrol engine in the X1 model on UK roads. The X1 20i will be powered by a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo unit developing 184hp and returning 40.9mpg when specified with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. A new entry-level X1 16d model is to be introduced too; bringing the price of the BMW X1 down to just £23,930.
From March, the 1 Series Coupé and Convertible will be available with the Pure Design Package. The upgrade comes with a Mineral White metallic paint finish, 18-inch M Sport alloy wheels and Chromeline trim on the outside; combined with Mocha leather upholstery, fine-wood trim and heated seats on the inside. The cost of the upgrade is £1,750 for the Coupé and £1,800 for the Convertible.
The final announcement from BMW is the ability to upgrade to the latest generation of BMW's Professional Navigation System in the 1 Series, 6 Series and the X3. Faster performance, additional route display modes and 3D graphics for all menus have been achieved by the new system's faster processor.
James Giddings - 21 Jan 2013
