Covers off sleek new BMW saloon

BMW 3-Series. Photo / Supplied

This is the best look yet at the new BMW 3-Series, to be launched in Spain next month and New Zealand early next year.

Reports in Europe say it offers more efficient engines, smarter looks, a sharper driving experience and a larger model range than ever - including a Gran Turismo liftback.

Spy photographers snapped the all-new model inside and out while it was undergoing testing in Germany, and computer-generated illustrations soon appeared.

The newcomer is every inch the baby 5-Series, with a more upright front end featuring wider kidney grilles.

Subtle cues that mark out the 3-Series include a pointed, aggressive nose, deeper faired-in headlights and more scalloped flanks.

The new model is the work of design boss Adrian Van Hoydoonk, whose work is far less controversial than that of predecessor Chris Bangle.

The styling is more slippery, too, enclosing as much of the chassis as possible to help reduce drag.

Under the skin lies a refreshed rear-wheel-drive platform that's so versatile it will also underpin the next-generation 1-Series. It uses MacPherson front suspension and a four-link rear layout, and boasts a new electronic power-steering system.

With the sixth-generation car being slightly longer and wider, it's expected to offer more space inside while increased use of composite materials will reduce weight.

The cabin also nods to the 5-Series, with gadgets such as wireless internet, a lane-departure warning set-up, infra-red night vision, a system to stop the driver falling asleep and radar-based cruise control.

Big-selling models will get a range of new 1.6 and 2-litre petrol and diesel turbocharged engines. These will feature variable intake and exhaust timing, plus direct injection to improve performance and efficiency. Gearboxes run to a six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic.

Factor in the latest EfficientDynamics emissions-cutting tweaks - such as stop-start, brake energy recovery and clever alternators - and the new line-up is likely to cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 10 per cent. BMW is also working on a three-cylinder engine, which promises 3.7 litres/100km (75mpg) and 100g/km of CO2.

Of course, there will also still be the option of the company's 3-litre six-cylinder turbo - a motor that the new M3 will use to even greater effect.

The new 3-Series sedan will be followed later by a coupe, convertible - which is likely to maintain its retractable metal roof - and Touring wagon versions.