The current E90 BMW 3-series has only been on the market since 2005 but details about the next-gen model are already circulating with most agreeing that the next model will feature styling lifted from the Concept CS. Due in 2012, the next BMW 3-series will be the first of a family of BMW cars with a more recognizable face derived from the original styling of the Shanghai concept.
With the new 3-series, designers will attempt to address criticisms of the current car’s awkward styling and lack of interior space. These renderings, compiled using information from sources close to the project show that the new car will have a pronounced kidney-grille with the air-intakes positioned on either side of the bumper just below the headlights.
The bonnet will sit much higher than on the current model to improve pedestrian safety, while the sides will be marked with a prominent character line and high beltline. Proportions will remain much the same as the current model but weight will be reduced thanks to the increased use of aluminum in its construction.
New options for the 2012 3-series will include hybrid variants as well as the latest version of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics. The X-Drive AWD system is likely to gain favour thanks to a redesign of the system to reduce weight, which will only increase fuel consumption by 0.5L per 100km over RWD models. Other features that may make it to production include night-vision devices, a heads-up display and radar safety systems.
Yes, it now steers in both left and right directions. BMW has announced it will not pursue participation in NASCAR
Seriously though, the front steering design reminds me of Audis. Bring on the creeks, squeaks and rattles. They were doing so well for so long and now they want to get away from simplicity. Meh, they are the engineers, not me.
The “typical” McPherson single lower control arm has positive (bad) camber gain through out suspension travel.
This looks like it will get some negative camber with more steering input for the direction of turn (outside wheel). But the range of caster from the lowest link is silly (I can’t mentally visualize the performance benefit, maybe lower steering moment for ease of drivability?)
I like the new 3 series. Love the look, and new features, etc. However the N55 doesn’t seem anywhere near as mod friendly as the N54, so I’ll stick with what I have instead of taking a huge step backward in power.
My E90 has almost 75K on it and is still rock solid. Also the steering has great feedback, and awesome turn in without the twitchy feel at highway speeds (like the EVO 8/9).
Good to hear. You can see how people start dumping these off as soon as they go out of warranty at 50k, but I’m thinking they should stay reliable well over 100k. I know mine will be seeing those numbers at some point.
