2012 BMW 3-SERIES: MEAN & GREEN!

An all-new sixth-generation 3-Series arrives in February with a new focus on efficiency, blogs Road Test Editor Howard Walker

It’s hard not to love BMW’s 3-Series. What other compact sports sedan delivers such a perfect package of athletic performance, nimble handling and a whole lot of German engineering? The twin-turbo 335i rocketship still ranks as one of my all-time favorite driving cars.



But, as usual, the fun-meisters at BMW aren’t resting on their laurels. Next February sees the U.S. arrival of an all-new sixth-generation 3-Series, above, which re-directs its focus away from outright performance, and more towards efficiency.

New “green” initiatives include the addition of a new 240-horse four-cylinder engine for the 328i entry model – 10 horsepower more powerful than the outgoing six; an eight-speed automatic transmission - a first in this segment. It sports stop-start and regenerative braking technology plus an economy-improving on-demand-only air conditioning compressor.



Next year will also see the introduction of an ActiveHybrid model that couples a 306 horsepower twin-turbo straight Six with a 54 horsepower electric motor. It should see a real-world fuel economy average of close to 37 mpg yet still be a blast to drive! 

See it in the metal and this new 3 is, in typical BMW fashion, more evolution than revolution. While every body panel is fresh, it has the sleek, familiar lines of the current model. Its most distinguishing feature is its new, more menacing-looking front end with elongated headlights that sweep back from the larger, more upright BMW kidney grille.



Size-wise, the car is 3.7 inches longer with an extra two inches added to the wheelbase so as to offer a little more space inside. It also has a wider track front and rear for even sharper handling. Thankfully, BMW has bucked the usual trend of adding weight with new models by shaving 88 pounds of body fat compared to the current car.

Inside, the cabin has been completely re-designed, with an even more driver-focused cockpit, superbly designed instruments and the welcome addition of two cupholders built into the center console. Rear seat riders get a little more knee-room - just half an inch - but every bit is welcome. Luggage gets treated better courtesy of an enlarged trunk that now has space for a trio of golf bags.

One cool new feature is the hands-free trunk opener. With the ignition key in your pocket and your arms full of stuff, you can simply wiggle a wingtip beneath the rear bumper and the trunk lid will pop open. 



This new 3-Series hits showrooms in February, followed by an all-wheel-drive version in the summer, and the ActiveHybrid 3 model in the fall. No word yet on the timing of the inevitable Cabrio and M-model. We’re counting the days!



For more information about the latest BMWs, please visit, http://www.bmwusa.com/



http://www.bmwofsarasota.com/index.htm