2012 BMW 3 Series spied testing in Chennai [Part 1/2]

I spotted the 6th generation BMW 3 Series with its character lines patched up using psychedelic camouflage near Porur, here in Chennai.

BMW did not leave behind a logo, lettering or nomenclature exposed, but the unmistakable design of the 3 Series does not need a helping hand from the logos to give it its identity. Having been researching and relaying constant updates on the new 3 Series since early 2009, we'll face no difficulty in identifying this model even if it was covered using sheets of camouflage!

The new 3 Series (codename - F30) is available overseas. Here in India, by the end of April or in early to mid May, we can expect BMW India's announcement. These are the first images of the new 3 Series testing on Indian roads.

The 3 Series is a CKD product with low levels of localization. Assembly is likely to begin in next month at the Chennai CKD plant.

The new 3 Series has moderately grown in dimension. The incoming sixth generation model has a wider track (front + 37 mm, rear + 47 mm) with a 93mm growth in length and 50mm rise in wheelbase. This may seem negligible on paper but rear seat comfort has improved considerably on the replacement.

Rear seat passengers have 18 mm of extra legroom near the doors, 15 mm of additional knee room 8 mm of extra headroom. Despite the enlargement, the weight of the new car is 40kg lighter than the fifth generation vehicle.

In 2012 BMW 3 Series spied testing in Chennai [Part 2/2] details on the variants and powertrains shall be posted along with a video. Don't miss it!

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