BMW 3 Series: Key Features Explained In Detail

The seventh generation BMW 3 Series has been finally launched in India and the sedan gets a complete overhaul in styling, engines and features over its predecessor. The all-new model is based on a completely new platform that underpins a number of new models from the brand, which has brought improved agility, lighter construction and larger proportions to the car. The changes have reinforced the new 3 Series' distinction of being a driver-centric offering albeit loaded with more features and creature comforts. With order books officially open, here are the key features that you need to know on the 2019 BMW 3 Series.

Also Read: 2019 BMW 3 Series India First Drive Review

The new BMW 3 Series gets 25% stiffer overall for enhanced agility over the predecessor

Improved Stiffness

BMW has extensively worked on the G20 3 Series in a bid to improve the stiffness on the car for a better driving experience. The all-new 3 Series is about 25 per cent stiffer overall than the F30 version, while the automaker has made it about 50 per cent stiffer around the suspension mounting points. The improvements should help improve the steering precision and handling on the new sedan. The new 3 also gets the low friction dual-pinion rack system steering unit on the 330i that also helps the car steer better.

Lighter Than Predecessor

Based on the BMW's new CLAR platform, the sedan is also lighter by a good 55 kg over the older model with the a smart mix of materials used in its construction including aluminum in the bonnet, front side panels, front spring struts and the engine sub-frame.

Also Read: New-Gen BMW 3 Series Launched In India; Prices Start At Rs. 41.40 Lakh

The BMW 3 Series is 55 kg lighter than its predecessor with extensive use of aluminium in its construction

Larger Dimensions = More Cabin Space

The BMW 3 Series has grown and that's good news for those who thought the previous iteration was a compromise on space. The new sedan is now 76 mm inches longer, 16 mm wider, and just 1 mm taller than the F30. The wheelbase too is longer by 41 mm and now measures 2851 mm, which opens up more legroom especially at the rear. The interior is also designed to offer more shoulder and elbow room in the front and additional headroom at the rear. The new glass roof also adds a sense of roomines to the cabin.

Technical Update To The Powertrain

The 2019 BMW 3 Series' engine has received a technical update on the 330i. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol motor saw an increment of 7 bhp and 50 Nm over the older engine and now produces a total of 255 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque. The technical update brings a number of new components to the engine including single, simpler timing chain for the cams, lighter crankshaft, and a simpler accessory belt drive. The direct injection system pressure has been raised from 200 to 350 bar, and the injectors can perform multiple injections to reduce emissions. The seventh gen 3 Series also gets a lower drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd from 0.26 Cd that helps achieve improved fuel efficiency.

The new 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor gets an increment of 7 bhp and 50 Nm over the older engine

The diesel engine remains the same 2.0-litre turbocharged in-line four oil burner that now produces 188 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque. The diesel version can sprint from 0-100 kmph in 6.8 seconds, while the petrol model is one second faster in comparison. Power is sent to the rear wheels via the 8-speed Steptronic autobox, with the manufacturer retaning its 50:50 weight distribution.

Also Read: 7th Generation BMW 3 Series Sedan Review

Hey BMW, Wireless Charging and Wireless Apple CarPlay

Like all of the new-age BMWs cars, the new generation 3 Series is tech laden as well and gets a host of features in a familiar looking cabin. The dashboard design remains in-line with the larger models from the carmaker, while the feature additions including the new BMW Virtual Assistant that responds to voice commands. The assistant can operate a number of car function simply responding to commands when the customer says "Hey BMW" o r a custom wake word to access the feature. The car also comes with Gesture Control that we first saw on the new generation 5 Series. The BMW ConnectedDrive tech also brings Wireless Charging and Wireless Apple CarPlay to the sedan.

The massive 12.3-inch digital display replaces the conventional console

BMW Live Cockpit Professional

Furthermore, the modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional runs on the latest BMW Operating System 7.0 and brings features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument display with 3D Navigation for all the necessary information that rests in your field of vision, while the 10.25-inch infotainment unit offers access to a host of other information. There's also Park Assistant with a rear view camera that makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over the acceleration, braking and steering control.

The Reverse assist feature can retrace its way back to the last 50 metres

Reversing Assistant

A neat addition to the new 3 Series is the Reversing Assistant that helps you reverse out of a narow lane or driveway. The feature essentially can retrace its way back to the last 50 metres and assists the driver by taking over the steering.

The laser lights are an optional feature on the new BMW 3 Series in India

Laser Lights

The new BMW 3 Series also comes with laser lights, albeit as an optional feature. The matrix adaptive pattern from the lights not only promise better illumination, longer throw and even ensures that the drivers aren't blinded by the light by using the selective beam system that automatically dims the lights on seeing oncoming vehicles.