CAR Online has obtained video footage of the new-for-2011 BMW 3-series testing the Nurburgring ahead of its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show. We don’t know what was powering the prototype in the video but we can be fairly sure it wasn’t the next M3, which is going to revert back to the straight six – albeit with twin turbos – as opposed to the current 4.0 V8 found in today’s E92 M3. See it in our video player below.
What’s new on the 2011 BMW 3-series?
The disguise is slowly shedding from the next 3-series; we can begin to make out more of the curves than before.
We know there will eventually be a 3-series GranTurismo like today’s 5-series GT. Our sources suggest the 335i will drop a turbo for a single blower and around 280bhp, making space in the line-up for the brand new 340i which will use twin turbos to produce an estimated 360bhp.
Other petrol engines include four-cylinder engines displacing 2.0 litres or 1.6. Sporty diesels will also appear with a 204bhp 323d and a 306bhp 335d all on the cards. BMW expects most models to be fitted with the eight-speed automatic gearbox with start/stop tech.
Is there going to be a hybrid Three?
Not confirmed yet, but a mild hybrid version looks plausible as well as optional four-wheel drive in certain markets (remember the 325i X? Alpine estates still get 4wd 3-series). A plug-in hybrid version is under consideration.
When will I be able to see the new 3-series range in the metal?
The 3-series range will be shown at the Frankfurt motor show in 2011; that points to showroom sales starting in early 2012.