Best of the six for new generation 3 series?

THE sixth generation of one of the world’s best-selling cars has been launched.
BMW’s latest 3 Series sedan raises standards in sportiness, elegance and comfort in its sector. It’s also longer and wider than the current model. This shows inside the cabin, especially in the rear passenger space.
Despite being larger, the car is 40kg lighter, which helps with the handling and sportiness.
There is a choice of four engines, all featuring the German car maker’s TwinPower Turbo technology. As well as two improved diesel engines and the popular six-cylinder petrol power unit, BMW has introduced a turbocharged four-cylinder offering in the 328i variant. This latest power plant offers better fuel consumption and lower emissions.
An eight-speed automatic gearbox is the first in this sector of the market. It can be specified with all of the engine options. BMW claims the gearbox will provides better performance and economy than the more usual six-speed offerings.
As components of the BMW EfficientDynamics technology line-up, the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Shift Indicator and need-based operation of ancillary components (including a disengageable air conditioning compressor) also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. Added to which, the new Driving Experience Control switch not only offers Comfort, Sport and Sport + options, but also ECO PRO mode, which gives all the models in the range the potential to further improve these figures. The same goes for the CO2-minimising BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition, whose peak output of 120 kW/163hp contrasts with average fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle of 4.1l/100 km (68.9 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 109g/km. Further engine options will be announced next year.
A new arrival in this sector is a full-colour Head-Up Display, which projects key information on to the windscreen in the driver’s field of view. Also available is Surround View with Side View and Top View, which gives a bird’s-eye perspective of the vehicle and the area around it.
Other technology includes a parking assistance system, Lane Departure Warning System with camera-based Collision Warning system, Real-Time Traffic Information (RTTI) and special apps such as “BMW Connected” for using social networks are also available.
Optional features include hands-free boot opening, Active Protection occupant protection system and Advanced eCall with automatic position finding to give emergency services detailed information on the nature of the collision before they arrive at the scene of the accident.