2013 bmw 3 series insideline
 

So edmunds has posted some "insider" information on the 2013 bmw 3 series and I thought I would share with the rest of you.

Just the Facts:

* Two years ahead of launch, IL offers an early look at the 2013 BMW 3 Series.
* New 3 Series lineup comprises five models, including a new two-door hatch.
* Turbocharged four-cylinder engines will replace the current straight 6s.


MUNICH, Germany — Two years ahead of launch, Inside Line is providing an early look at the 2013 BMW 3 Series, along with important details on the ultra-popular car's entire lineup.

Preparing to launch in 2012, the new 3 Series is styled after the striking 2011 BMW 5 Series, which officially debuted last fall in Munich. Despite the fact that the next-generation 3 Series rides on a longer wheelbase than the current model, the new car is expected to be lighter than its predecessor, and will be offered in five models instead of the traditional four.

In addition to the sedan, wagon, coupe and convertible, BMW plans to add a 3 Series two-door hatchback Gran Turismo, which will join the lineup a year later. The GT3 will emulate the current 2010 5 Series GT, which debuted last fall.

Although the 3 Series convertible just received a retractable hardtop for its last major redesign in 2007, BMW is now considering reverting to a fabric soft top in place of the heavier steel roof.

2013 3 Series' models are expected to be powered by smaller turbocharged four-cylinder engines in place of the current six-cylinder power plants, which will first debut in the 2011 BMW 1 Series. The exception will be the future BMW M3, which will trade in its V8 for a twin-turbocharged six and electric hybrid drive.

All variations of the new 3 Series will have stop-start technology and Valvetronic variable valve timing.

Inside Line says: It's risky business redesigning a perennial favorite like the 3 Series, but with sharp new sheet metal, more fuel-efficient engines and an even broader choice of body styles, this baby is destined to find even more buyers, not fewer. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor

http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/bm..._32210_717.jpg

http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/bm..._32210_717.jpg

http://media.il.edmunds-media.com/bm..._32210_717.jpg


Most important rumor...Scrapping the inline 6 for a turbo 4 cylinder? If this is true what is bmw thinking?

Also.. Does anyone else think the lights look like an Evo X sort of from the front?

original link

2013 BMW 3 Series: Early Look

smaller displacement with FI is the way of the future right now. They probably will still offer the turbo I6 for the top model.

front end looks like a lancer :barf:

good to see bmw is still in the habit of creating bizarre oddities that seem to have no purpose whatsoever. just like the x6 or the 5 series granturismo, now they will make a 3 series granturismo. what's next, a 4 door 1 series? or a 7 series coupe? or 7 series granturismo?

UGLY!!!! and the front is def. a ripoff from the lancer line.

WTF last great 3er was the E46.... od do I miss my 330ci :(

great looking car!

I would hate to see the I6 go. We have a 335i and it's got one of the smoothest motors of any car we've owned.

I think the E92 offered a lot more than the E46.

Glad I got mine when I did

The nose kind of looks like a pig nose. But as with most BMWs, I'm sure it will look pretty good in person.

the email I got from BMW highlighting the new 4 cyl. said it was replacing the base 3.0, and also adding it to the Z4 line as a base model, not replacing the twin turbo. I deleted the original, but this is a little info on it:

The new 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine is one fierce powerhouse and will make its American debut in the Z4 sDrive28i. Despite its small size, it's unrivaled in performance. In fact, it boasts 260 lb-ft of torque, which is 30% more than its 6-cylinder equivalent. The maximum output of its 240-hp is achieved at 5,000 rpm – that's 1,500 rpm lower than the former 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. Encased in an all-aluminum crankcase, it's also lighter and more compact. Plus, the combination of TwinPower Turbo technology and higher torque even increases its efficiency. With powerful and efficient performance like this, our smallest engine will surely take your breath away.

I'll have to see it in person before I make judgement.

B@t

Fugly!! :shakes head:

:iagree: