Changing the dynamics

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

New Zealand will be one of the first countries to get BMW's new 3-Series, the fifth generation in a line of sedans, wagons and coupes that set new standards in driving dynamics at each evolution.

The new 3-Series will be launched here in late March, just weeks after its international unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.

New Zealand is getting the car even before many left-hand-drive countries, mostly because the frequency of new models these days means BMW doesn't want crucial right-hand-drive markets to wait as they have in the past.

The latest iteration of the 3-Series retains classic design hallmarks: short front and rear overhangs, ideal 50:50 weight distribution, longitudinal engine and rear-wheel drive.

It mixes themes from the third- and fourth-generation cars of the 1990s with BMWs controversial modern design language, first seen in the 7-Series saloon of 2002.

Official pictures of the 3-Series - seen here for the first time in New Zealand - indicate that the new model is arguably the best example yet of chief designer Chris Bangles' work in a large-scale production model.

Said BMW New Zealand marketing manager Mark McCutcheon: "This car has been the subject of an unprecedented level of rumour and pre-launch comment.

"There have been more speculative unofficial images of the new 3-Series published than any model in recent memory."

BMW released the pictures earlier than planned after a brochure, complete with images and specifications, unofficially made its way into print in Europe.

The new model is bigger all-round than the outgoing car: 4520mm (+49mm) in length, 2760mm (+35mm) in the wheelbase, 1817mm (+78mm) in width and 1424mm (+9mm) in height.

BMW says the bodyshell is stronger by 25 per cent but the use of lightweight construction materials brings the car in at roughly the same kerb weight as its predecessor, around 1540kg for the premium six-cylinder.

Power from the range of four- and six-cylinder petrol engines has been increased. The premium 3-litre unit comes from the 6-Series and is the first six-cylinder engine to use BMW's Valvetronic induction system.

Combined with Bi-Vanos variable camshaft timing, it improves fuel economy and sharpens throttle response.

The traditional driver-orientated dashboard layout remains, while rear occupants benefit from an increase in head, shoulder, elbow and leg-room.

The new model comes with a number of first-time BMW features in a large-scale production model. These will change from market-to-market:

* iDrive operating is standard. This controls many of the car's comfort functions. It has been improved since first appearing in the 7-Series. The iDrive display screen sits centrally on the dashboard in a second binnacle.

* A new key containing an ID sensor unlocks the doors from a short distance away and works in tandem with BMW's key memory system to adjust the driver's personal settings - seating, door mirrors, air conditioning, radio - before he or she enters the car.

* The crankcase jacket, bedplate and cylinder head cover in the six-cylinder engines are all made from magnesium, which weighs 30 per cent less than aluminium.

* Improved Dynamic Stability Control: the traction control system includes Brake Standby, which pre-tensions the brakes when the driver quickly lifts off the accelerator pedal.

* Active steering: the new model picks up the system from the 5- and 6-Series. It lightens steering at parking speeds and firms it up for accuracy at faster speeds. It also works with traction control to correct oversteer, when the tail slides out.

* Brake Force Display is standard for the first time in 3-Series. The rear lights glow brighter under emergency braking.

* The front axle is made completely of aluminium to minimise the unsprung mass of the car and reduce road noise. The rear axle is a new five-link arrangement, first used in the just-released 1-Series.

* Run-flat tyres: new technology allows the 3-Series to be driven for 250km at 80km/h on four punctured tyres.

Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are standard across the range.

The top-range 3-litre straight-six engine now develops 190kW (258 bhp) and 300Nm of torque between 2500 and 4000 rpm. That's an increase of 20kW over the outgoing version.

The four-cylinder turbo-diesel 320d uses second-generation common rail technology to produce 120kW (163bhp) and 340Nm, and a claimed fuel economy of around 6 litres /100km, or nearly 50mpg.

Prices for the new line-up will be announced closer to the launch.