Subtle tweaks make BMW 3-Series better than ever

It may not look like there are a lot of changes to the exterior of the BMW 3-Series but BMW has made some subtle ones for its mid-life upgrade.

We saw it first in Munich recently and while it was always a handsome car, it now is slightly sleeker.

New materials and highlights have also been introduced to the interior to even further boost the sporting yet comfortable ambience.

Externally, revised headlights include optional LED units with LED indicators now positioned as ‘eyebrows’ above the headlights. Designers have moved the lights further apart, visually strengthening the car’s broad stance on the road. In cars with standard specification lighting, the headlights are joined by two LED daytime driving light units on each side.

Also at the front, broader side air intakes are integrated into the sculptural form of the bumpers. The new, more intricate structure of the central air intake also allows the radar sensor for the Active Cruise Control (ACC) to be housed more discreetly.

At the rear, the new rear lights are full-LED units on all models. The light bars, arranged in a distinctive BMW ‘L’ shape, are more heavily curved, and the integrated LED brake lights now respond faster.

Inside, the improvements include carefully arranged chrome highlights and high-gloss surfaces for an even classier look.

In Luxury, Sport or M Sport models, the accent strip in the instrument panel continues into all four doors. Other new features include cup holders in the centre console with a sliding cover and an additional practical storage area for items such as a smartphone, positioned forward of the cup holders.

However, it is under the bonnet that the majority of changes are evident. All engines are completely new and hail from the latest modular BMW EfficientDynamics engine family, with standout models such as the new three-cylinder 318i, the 326hp 340i, the 99g/km 320dED and the 335d with 630Nm of torque.

With further advancements to gearboxes, chassis dynamics and personalisation options, plus a huge array of advanced technology such as the new optional BMW Professional Navigation, the new BMW 3 Series is better equipped than ever before to continue the legend.

Luxury models now come with the new bi-colour 18- inch light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design as standard.

Among the features of the M Sport model are leather upholstery, the M aerodynamic package, an M leather steering wheel, M Sport suspension, front sports seats, the anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner and the Driving Experience Control switch with additional Sport+ mode.

Prices start at €37,140 for the 318i SE saloon and €42,260 for the diesel 318d SE. The cheapest diesel option is the 316d SE saloon at €39,990 or €42,340 for the Touring version. The 320d starts at €43,890, the 330i at €51,330 and 340i at €64,550.