MUNICH: BMW has announced significant updates for its 3 Series, enhancing the model's design, powertrain, digital features, and equipment for 2024.
These updates aim to strengthen the car's sporty and modern appeal.
The 2024 3 Series introduces new high-voltage batteries for its plug-in hybrid models, increasing the electric range to a maximum of 101km in the WLTP cycle.
New chassis tuning improves the balance between sportiness and comfort. The BMW Operating System 8.5, paired with upgraded BMW iDrive and QuickSelect, enhances digital functionality and navigation with features like Augmented View.
Design updates include new exterior paint finishes and light-alloy wheels.
Inside, the 3 Series features redesigned steering wheels, an updated instrument panel, and high-quality materials such as the CraftedClarity glass applications.
Production of the new 3 Series Sedan and Touring models will begin worldwide in July.
They will be made at the BMW plant in Munich, with additional production of the sedan in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and Shenyang, China, through the BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) joint venture.
The key markets for these models include China, Germany, the UK, Europe, and the United States, with the Touring model being especially popular in Europe and other regions like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand.
Since its debut in 1975, the 3 Series has embodied sporty driving pleasure, elegant design, and technological advancement.
Over 20 million units have been sold globally, with the current seventh generation accounting for nearly three million.
The 3 Series remains a market leader in the premium midsize segment in China, Europe, and the United States. In some markets, it represents up to 35% of BMW's total sales.
The 3 Series offers a diverse range of power units, including four petrol engines, four diesels, and high-performance M models with six-cylinder engines.
The plug-in hybrid variants have seen a rise in popularity, supported by the latest battery and charging technology.
The best-selling variant is the 320i Sedan, with petrol engines being the most common choice. In contrast, the Touring model sees a higher demand for diesel engines.
The new 3 Series includes a range of new technological features aimed at improving efficiency and reducing carbon footprints.
The new high-voltage battery technology in the plug-in hybrid models is a highlight, doubling the battery's usable energy without eating into interior or cargo space.
The electric range now allows for longer, emission-free journeys. The new charging unit supports three-phase AC charging at up to 11kW, reducing full recharge time to 2 hours 15 minutes.
The chassis technology has been refined to offer a better balance between sportiness and ride comfort.
The stiffer mounting connecting the rear dampers to the body is one example of the improvements aimed at increasing overall precision and comfort.
The M Sport suspension, available with the M Sport package, includes electronically controlled dampers and variable sport steering.
Advanced driver assistance systems further enhance safety and convenience.
Standard features include front collision warning, cruise control, and Intelligent Speed Assistance. Optional extras, like the Driving Assistant Professional package, offer more advanced functionalities.
The M Performance models in the BMW 3 Series lineup feature powerful six-cylinder engines, bespoke chassis setups, and distinctive M design cues.
These models, available with petrol and diesel engines, come with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
M-specific design elements, such as large air intakes and black high-gloss mirror caps, highlight their performance capabilities.
Inside, the M Performance models feature M-specific equipment, including new M Performtex upholstery, a new M leather steering wheel, and various M design elements. These features enhance the models' sporty and modern character.
The new 3 Series also introduces the latest BMW iDrive system with QuickSelect, based on BMW Operating System 8.5.
This system features a new home screen and QuickSelect functionality for a more intuitive user experience.
Enhanced navigation, improved connectivity with Personal eSIM, and advanced digital services are also part of the new offering.
