New-gen BMW 3 Series teased under the veil for Paris debut

-    The sedan teased in this latest image could be the top-spec M340i variant.

-    The 3 Series will enter into its seventh generation, codenamed G20. 

-    Based on a new platform, the 3 will be powered by the most powerful four-cylinder engine ever fitted in a BMW.

BMW is gearing up for the new-gen 3 Series reveal which will happen just ahead of the public premiere at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. The executive sports sedan has been teased once again, under a veil, and we think this one is the top-spec M340i variant. We also get a glimpse of the new 3’s distinctive LED headlamps in the new teaser. 

Codenamed the G20, the new-gen 3 Series DRLs seen here seems to have taken their cues from the all-new 8 Series. The characteristic Kidney grille gets a new shape, but as opposed to the Z4’s mesh design, it has the vertical louvres with chrome surround. The DRLs are seen with a special L-shape as well.

The seventh-gen 3 Series will be based on a new platform similar to the 5 Series’ CLAR architecture. BMW says it will get new suspension, steering, damping and brakes for an optimized ride comfort while maintaining its dynamic performance. The centre of gravity is lowered by around 10mm and the weight has been reduced by 55kilograms compared to the model it replaces. BMW’s characteristic 50:50 weight distribution is maintained while the overall weight has been reduced by 55 kilograms. The four-door also gets larger track width and an increased camber. 

The Bavarian carmaker has confirmed that the 3 Series will get a thoroughly revised four-cylinder petrol motor. This will be the most powerful four-cylinder motor ever fitted in a BMW. Yet the fuel consumption will be down by five per cent compared to the older version of the same engine. The Euro 6 engine will be mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. 

Appearance wise, we know the 3 will look similar to the new 5 Series. The new sleeker headlights will flank the restyled grille. At the rear, the newly designed tail lights will be similar to the 5. The cabin too is expected to be borrowed from the elder siblings. After its Paris debut, the new 3 Series will go on sale early next year. BMW will promptly launch the new 3 Series in India as well. It will continue to rival the updated Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE and upcoming Audi A4 facelift and new-gen Volvo S60.