Next generation BMW 3 Series (G20) starts testing - Spied
Expected to reach showrooms in 2017.
BMW Blog has managed to acquire spyshots of the next generation BMW 3 Series testing. It is expected to debut in 2017, and could arrive in Indian showrooms in 2018.
The test mule appears to be comprehensively covered up, leaving the exterior design to imagination. It's likely to draw influence from BMW's next generation design language, which will debut in the next generation BMW X3.
The next 3 Series will be based on the CLAR modular platform that will integrate materials like carbon fiber, aluminum and high strength steel in the architecture. So expect a significant weight loss in the CLAR-based 3 Series, thus better rivaling the aluminum-based Jaguar XE.
Also Read: 2017 BMW 5 Series Plug-in Hybrid spotted with production lights
With the CLAR platform, the BMW 3 Series will get next generation engines, which include a 1.5-liter three cylinder turbo, 2.0-liter four cylinder petrol and diesel lineup and a range-topping M340i variant with a 3.0-liter inline six engine from the new BMW 740Li. Details on the next generation M3 are unclear, as of now.
For the Indian market, BMW India will first launch the 3 Series facelift at the Auto Expo 2016.
[Source: BMW Blog]