Besides the Prestige base trim, and the Sport & Luxury Lines, BMW has introduced a new trim on the 3 Series with this launch - the M Sport, which draws some styling cues from BMW's M range of performance sedans. This is only superficial though and does not translate in to any change in either engine output or driving dynamics. Since the M Sport carries 18" alloys with low profile tyres as standard - I have to say its ride is somewhat hard. The Prestige trim has 16" while the Sport and Luxury Lines have 17" wheels.
BMW 3 Series facelift
Apart from the minor styling changes, you also now get a new colour - Estoril Blue, head-up display and navigation only on the M Sport trim. I am not so sure about the head-up display, but navigation shouldn't just be on the top trim, since a lot of people do now like to use it. It may be wise for BMW to consider offering at least navigation across the range - or at least as an option. The other grouse I have - like other BMW's this one too doesn't have a reverse camera on it. C'mon folks - reverse cameras are now becoming hygiene on mass car offerings too! On the new M Sport variant you also get new leather upholstery, an M badged leather steering wheel, front sports seats and the additional Sport+ mode. The car has the updated new 2 litre twinpower turbo diesel engine with 190 bhp on tap. The peak torque of 400 Nm is ample, and kicks in generously early at 1750 rpm. The 8 speed gearbox remains quick and very responsive.
The new 3 Series has been launched at a starting price of Rs. 35.90 lakh for the Prestige trim, Rs. 41.50 lakh for the Sport/Luxury Lines, and Rs. 44.50 lakh for the top-of-the-line new M Sport variant. BMW India has said it will bring in a petrol variant later in the year.
