Go Back   Sports Car Forum - MotorWorld.net > Automotive Brands Forum > Car Chat > Car Gallery



Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 10-26-2004, 11:12 AM   #1
Wutputt
Regular User
 
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Belgium
Posts: 3,371
Default BMW E90 3-series

Probably most of you already knew how the new BMW 3-series looks like, due to the leaked Slovenian brochure, but here are some official pics BMW released today:





















source: response.jp & thecarfanatics.com

What about some high-res now?











A 'little bit' extra BMW press info:

To be revealed for the first time in public at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2005, the E90 3 Series is due on sale Spring 2005. When the new 3 Series will be introduced onto the market, it will be available with three different petrol engines (330i, 325i, 320i) and one diesel engine (320d).

Six-cylinder with extra-light magnesium crankcase

The all-new R6 straight-six cylinder fitted to the top-of-the-range BMW 330i offers an energetic output of 190 kW, with torque at 300 Nm between 2,500 and 4,000 rpm. The new 3.0-litre R6 is the most powerful and lightest six-cylinder engine in its segment.

To minimise weight, BMW has employed magnesium for the first time in large-scale series production, achieving a substantial 30 percent weight saving compared with an all aluminium alloy engine. Magnesium is used for the crankcase, the crankshaft bearings, and on the cylinder head cover.

Maximising the weight saving and boosting performance across the rev range is the addition of a now well-known BMW innovation: VALVETRONIC infinitely variable intake valve control. The result is an even more efficient use of fuel with an even faster engine response. This superior technology is teamed with the long-standing BMW double-VANOS variable camshaft adjustment on both inlet and exhaust valves.

The combination of VALVETRONIC and double-VANOS spurs the new BMW 330i from 0-100 km/h in a supercar-like 6.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Despite this remarkable performance from a compact sedan, fuel consumption is a meagre 8.7-ltr/100 km on the composite EU cycle.

The 2.5-litre BMW 325i also makes its European debut in early 2005

Its new engine produces 160 kW at 6,500 rpm thanks to VALVETRONIC and double-VANOS technology, with maximum torque of 250 Nm available between 2,750 and 4,250 rpm. The BMW 325i accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds with a top speed of 245 km/h. The BMW 325i uses just 8.3 ltr/100 km on the combined EU cycle.

BMW 320i powered by high-output four-cylinder

The BMW 320i picks up a newly optimised version of the advanced VALVETRONIC-equipped 2.0-litre four-cylinder, previously available on the E46 318i. The E90 320i engine, equipped with double-VANOS variable camshaft adjustment, delivers maximum output of 110 kW at 6,200 rpm, with maximum torque of 200 Nm at 3,600 rpm.

Thus equipped, the new BMW 320i can accelerate to 100 km/h from rest in just 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 220 km/h. Fuel consumption in the EU combined cycle is 7.4 ltr/100 km. These improvements over the previous engine, already acknowledged as a genuinely smooth and powerful performer, are attributable to the optimisation of both the intake manifold and exhaust system.

320d, the success story continues

The new BMW 320d with second generation common rail technology and a turbo compressor with variable geometry turbine, developes an impressive 163 bhp (120 kW) and a maximum torque of 340 Nm at 2,000 rpm. The comfortable delivery of power and its dynamics makes this engine one of the top of its segment.

The BMW 320d accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds and continues to a top speed of 245 km/h. These performance figures indicate truly the sportive character of the BMW 320d. Besides the new BMW 320d complies with the strict EU4 emission standard.

Six-speed transmissions on all models

The 320i and 325i models will come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and the option of a six-speed automatic transmission. The 330i will be available as standard with the automatic transmission. An extra gear, closer increments and wider overall spread of ratios allow the driver to extract the most from these engines, particularly at step-off.

The new BMW 3 Series is even more dynamic on the road, accelerating faster than before and achieving a higher top speed, while consuming less fuel and thus producing fewer emissions.

Push to start

The new BMW 3 Series gains a unique feature for this class of premium sport sedan, a Start/Stop push button combined with the Comfort Start function. The driver simply presses the starter button in order to fire the engine. All other operations then continue automatically without any further intervention.

Top-of-the-range technology for enhanced driving dynamics

Reflecting its mighty heritage, the new BMW 3 Series is replete with classic BMW characteristics; a longitudinally-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, and perfect axle load distribution of 50:50, combining to deliver superior all-round dynamic agility.

The newly developed double-joint front axle is all-aluminium, ensuring optimum balance of driving dynamics and motoring comfort. Further, optimised directional stability is assured thanks to a stiff, strong and light front axle. The five-link rear axle made of lightweight steel, in turn, ensures supreme agility and dynamic handling at all times. Further advantages are precise wheel guidance and very good roll comfort.

Active steering: unique in this segment

A unique feature available for the first time in this segment is BMW's active steering, to be offered as an option on six-cylinder models. Active steering provides a more direct transmission ratio at low speeds and an indirect ratio at higher speeds, thus solving the conflict of interest between agility, stability, and comfort, which conventional steering simply cannot offer.

BMW active steering is enhanced for the new 3 Series by an additional feature particularly important in everyday motoring in poor conditions. When the driver applies the brakes on surfaces with varying frictional coefficients such as icy patches, snow and asphalt, active steering - actively intervening in the steering control - stabilises the car more quickly and more precisely than a 'regular' motorist would ever be able to do.

Latest-generation DSC

BMW's DSC Dynamic Stability Control appears in its latest generation to provide safety of the highest standard. On the six-cylinder models DSC is enhanced with useful functions such as dry-braking of the brake discs on wet roads, Brake Standby with the brakes being alerted by pre-aligning the brake linings, a Start-Off Assistant preventing the car from rolling back when setting off on a gradient, as well as anti-dive control when applying the brakes slowly. As a result of all these features and improvements, BMW's sports saloon is once again increasing its leadership in driving dynamics, an area in which it has always excelled.

The BMW 3 Series - a dynamic and elegant sedan

With its design language, the new BMW 3 Series is a unique, self-confident contender clearly expressing its qualities as a dynamic and elegant sports sedan. Positioned at the epicentre of BMW's modern design spectrum, the new 3 Series harmonises the body design of the BMW Z4 and the BMW 1 Series with the elegance of the 5 and 7 Series. Characteristic features are the short overhangs, the greenhouse pushed to the rear, and the long bonnet.

The BMW 3 Series is noticeably larger inside and out. The interior is bright, spacious and generous reflecting the lifestyle of its target group. At 4,520 mm, the body of the new BMW E90 3 Series is 49 mm longer than the E46 3 Series it replaces. At 1,817 mm it is 78 mm wider and 6 mm higher at 1,421 mm. The wheelbase is stretched 35 mm to 2,760 mm.

Body: Lighter, stiffer, safer

Stiffer and lighter than before, the bodyshell of the new BMW 3 Series benefits from lightweight engineering via latest-generation steel and moulding technologies. A new joint and crossbar design for the car's load-bearing structure increases body stiffness by 25 per cent, with no weight gain over the E46.

Side impact protection: The safest 3 Series yet

The new BMW 3 Series is designed to achieve best results in the EuroNCAP crash test. It is also one of the first cars in the world fully prepared for the extremely demanding side-impact requirements in the USA as well as the US high-speed rear impact test. In addition to optimised belt systems, the passenger safety system comes as standard with six airbags: front airbags for the driver and front passenger, hip/thorax airbags, and curtain head airbags.

Proven technology for extra safety

While dual halogen headlights are standard, customers may select bi-xenon headlights with or without an adaptive light function as an option. Dynamically adjusting the position of the headlights in an infinite process, the bi-xenon headlights with adaptive headlight function ensure perfect illumination of the road ahead geared to current driving requirements. The result is much better visibility for the driver. This pays off particularly in bends, where the headlights dynamically follow the course of the road, to quite literally guide the driver along.

Featured as standard, two-stage Brake Force Display enlarges the brake light area as soon as the driver pushes hard on the brake pedal or when ABS cuts in. Drivers following will instantly recognise this as an indication of emergency braking, giving them vital extra seconds in which to react.

The new BMW 3 Series also comes as standard with runflat tyres enabling the car to continue for up to 250 km after a puncture at a speed of up to 80 km/h without destroying the tyre or the rim.

Clever solutions inside the car - premium class space and comfort

The interior of the new BMW 3 Series is modern and harmonious, the luxurious ambience reflecting a sense of controlled dynamism and lightness. The interior conveys the twin 3 Series strengths of luxury and sports driving.

Driver-oriented cockpit

As with all BMW cars, the cockpit is clearly structured and driver-oriented. The driver zone conveys important information with optimum clarity. The centre section serves as the comfort zone within perfect reach of the driver and front passenger.

Combining high information density with ease of control

Superior ergonomics means controlling important features such as the air conditioning and radio is easy, convenient and safe. Complex systems with high information density are controlled via iDrive, where optioned together with satellite navigation. This option includes a bespoke binnacle in the middle of the instrument panel. The controller enables the driver to select the various functions and navigate through the individual menus.

Keyless driving

With iDrive eliminating the conventional array of buttons and knobs in the cockpit, Comfort Access, available as an option, renders the conventional ignition key a thing of the past. A transmitter referred to as the ID Sensor enables the owner to enter the car and start the engine without even touching the key. And in conjunction with Key Memory, the ID Sensor recalls the seat position, mirrors, automatic air conditioning and radio tuning settings used on the driver's last journey.

Ultra-fast cooling and heating

Conceived for maximum comfort and ease of control, the air conditioning in the new BMW 3 Series ensures exceptionally fast cooling and heating. A full multi-zone climate system is offered, enhanced by an optimised, automatic anti-mist function.

Luxury class infotainment systems

The wide range of information and entertainment features in the new BMW 3 Series employ DVD data systems, allowing drivers the choice of either the Business or Professional navigation units, available as options. Also optional is the Professional Logic7 HiFi system that provides in-car surround sound.
Wutputt is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 11:36 AM   #2
Mopsdrops
Regular User
 
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Belgium
Posts: 2,403
Default

Thank you Wutputt, very nice pictures, looks kinda cool.
__________________
Mopsdrops is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 11:54 AM   #3
oantob
Regular User
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: J-Town
Posts: 711
Default

The front is ok and the interior so luxurious, but when I saw the back its not OK...ugly rear lights but nice pics thou..
__________________
The power of GT-R
oantob is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 12:32 PM   #4
TT
Regular User
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Lugano, Switzerland
Posts: 23,178
Default

We need some high-res, here they are

What about some high-res now?











edited the first post with the and the press release posted by Wut (you could have edited the first post yourself for that )
__________________
TT is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 12:38 PM   #5
abbor
Regular User
 
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Trondheim, Norway
Posts: 1,068
Default

Hmm.. I love the front, but the back still need some time to grow on me...
But I want one bad as hell.. 330i is just perfect..
abbor is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 12:43 PM   #6
Schwalbe
 
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Montréal
Posts: 2,455
Default

Thanks guys for those high-res pics of the new E90 3 series. My favorite picture of the bunch is definitively this one : Contrasts of lights are really nice. 8)
Schwalbe is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 01:37 PM   #7
SPEEDKILLAR
Regular User
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: België
Posts: 3,213
Default

Originally Posted by oantob
The front is ok and the interior so luxurious, but when I saw the back its not OK...ugly rear lights but nice pics thou..

Totally agree.
__________________
Bob Woodward - State of denial

Tariq Ali - Clash of Fundamentalisms

Blaire is a figleaf

Cars are my hobby, driving them is my passion.

Originally Posted by Dan\/6
damn speedkillar, if you didnt have a title already it would now say 'robofucker' or similar
SPEEDKILLAR is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 01:44 PM   #8
rachaderua
 
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: Autódromo de Interlagos
Posts: 415
Default

that seems to be a great car, very well designed, but i just didn´t like the rear, as it´s not a typical bmw rear style, but that´s ok. It´s a good car
__________________
"It´s not the how fast you can go, but if you can go faster."
Autódromo de Interlagos, "S do Senna" corner viewed by inside.

"My paradise is not a warm beach, but an empty racetrack."
rachaderua is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 01:59 PM   #9
Wutputt
Regular User
 
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Belgium
Posts: 3,371
Default

Originally Posted by TT
edited the first post with the and the press release posted by Wut (you could have edited the first post yourself for that )
For some reason it didn't cross my mind, don't know why. I'll try to remember it the next time

btw, thanks for the highres pics.


My opinion of the car: it looks good when looking at the front or the side of the car. But I really don't like the back. First of all it doesn't look good and secondly it isn't really BMW-like. But I'm convinced it will sell like hotcakes.
Wutputt is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 02:08 PM   #10
chest3r
Regular User
 
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Portugal
Posts: 2,166
Default

WOW!! I think the car is pretty good, specially the front. The rear is not so good, but I love the car anyway 8)

BTW What is this in the midle of the bumper ??

__________________
chest3r is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 02:12 PM   #11
leo_26782
Regular User
 
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Genève
Posts: 451
Default

Is there any details about the futur M3 and (?) a V8?
leo_26782 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 02:21 PM   #12
sndr
Regular User
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Posts: 461
Default

I still don't like the back it's not bmw-like more an Hyundai
__________________
sndr is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 02:32 PM   #13
malte
Regular User
 
Join Date: Dec 2003
Posts: 69
Default

compared to the old 3 series it's not at all ok. the old one looked low and muscular. their new line is too artsy in my opinion. i feel like I'm standing next to a scale model in plastic with the new 5 series and from the pictures the new 3 series seems no different. The distance between the rear window and the end of the car is too short. An aesthetical error in my opinion that it has in common with the slr. but the pictures are great though, big thx. Its nice with decent pics for evaluation purposes... any details on the new M3, i've heard something about a 400 hp v8 or am i wrong?
__________________
Racing is life, everything that happens before and after is just waiting...
malte is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 05:54 PM   #14
Just_me
Regular User
 
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: EU
Posts: 949
Default

Originally Posted by chest3r
WOW!! I think the car is pretty good, specially the front. The rear is not so good, but I love the car anyway 8)

BTW What is this in the midle of the bumper ??
[/img]
It's a radar unit for Active cruise control
__________________
http://germancarzone.com/
Just_me is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-26-2004, 07:28 PM   #15
5vz-fe
Regular User
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Toronto
Posts: 6,167
Default

Actually, thanks to this leak, we have the official photos early.
The front and the side of the car looks nice, but the rear end is plain ugly. Those irregular taillights makes it looks weird.
__________________
5vz-fe is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply


Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump