THE NEW BMW 3 SERIES (USA Press Information)
07/16/2008
Highlights include styling updates inside & out, new technology and the introduction of BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - July 16 2008... The 2009 3 Series Sedan and Sport Wagon is poised to maintain its market leadership with updated exterior and interior styling, new technologies, enhanced ergonomics and, as previously announced, the U.S. introduction of BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance in the form of the 335d Sedan.

Highlights.
• The new BMW 3 Series Sedans and Sports Wagons, already and always leaders in their class, widen their lead in driving dynamics, premium quality and innovative technology.
• These vehicles combine unique BMW elegance with a driving experience that's widely imitated, yet really inimitable.
• A brand-new twin-turbo diesel engine, thoroughly BMW in its performance and character, powers the new 335d Sedan and expands the scope of BMW EfficientDynamics.
• Subtle freshening of exterior design features a new front end, more dynamic profile, and wider appearance at the rear. Headlights and taillights are new, yet present a typically BMW look, innovative lighting technology and 3-dimensional effects.
• Refinement of interior design and amenities includes new colors and materials. Overall design of interior reflects and complements the distinctive exterior design. Among functional updates are ergonomically enhanced placement of power-window controls for the driver and new, expanded storage possibilities.
• New generation of BMW iDrive, available in 3 Series in combination with optional Navigation system: ergonomically optimized iDrive controller with function selection and activation via turn, push and tilt motions; new direct-select keys; more Programmable Memory Keys than before. The newly enhanced Navigation system offers greater functionality.
• BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance: all-new inline 6-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine with an impressive array of new features for high performance, high fuel efficiency and clean exhaust. To achieve these targets, this aluminum powerplant applies common-rail, high-pressure direct fuel injection with piezo injectors; 2-stage turbocharging; exhaust particulates filter; and Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust after-treatment to reduce NOx. Displacing 3.0 liters, this truly advanced engine enables BMW to introduce diesel power in all 50 U.S. states; it produces 265 hp and an amazing peak torque of 425 lb-ft.; 0-60 mph in 6.0 sec. with 6-speed automatic transmission. EPA mileage ratings have not been finalized, but are expected to set new "mile"-stones in the simultaneous achievement of performance with fuel economy.
• Continuation of two other trailblazing BMW inline 6-cylinder performance concepts in the other 3 Series models: the 3.0-liter naturally aspirated unit in 328i models with weight-saving magnesium/aluminum composite construction and Valvetronic induction technology for 230 hp; and the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine of 335i models with its direct fuel injection (piezo injectors here, too) and large-volume dual exhaust system. This unit delivers 300 hp, and a peak torque that is remarkable not only for its quantity (300 lb-ft.) but for the range over which it's at the driver's disposal (1400 to 5000 rpm). Both of these gasoline engines have been acclaimed widely for their respective qualities: for the 328i unit, silky and strong performance with remarkable fuel economy; for the 335i, dramatically sporty performance with fuel economy that's notable in view of the power.
• BMW's acclaimed xDrive all-wheel drive is featured in the newly named 328i and 335i xDrive Sedans and 328i xDrive Sports Wagon. This intelligently engineered AWD system steplessly varies the torque split between front and rear wheels to enhance not only traction, but also agility and stability on grippy, as well as slippery road surfaces.
• Comprehensive safety concept with extremely rigid body structure; carefully defined "force paths" that lead and distribute collision forces optimally through the structure; targeted application of high-strength steels and deformation elements; six airbags including front side-impact and front/rear head protection; new Active front head restraints.
• The 2009 models are: 328i Sedan and Sports Wagon; 328i xDrive Sedan and Sports Wagon; 335i, 335i xDrive and 335d Sedans. The 3 Series also encompasses Coupes and retractable-hardtop Convertibles; these continue with less extensive updates for 2009.

Segment original remains segment leader.
The BMW 3 Series is an internationally recognized symbol of the intelligently sporty motor vehicle. It is also the best-selling premium vehicle in the world. Updates for the 2009 Sedan and Sports Wagon models include -
• A subtle exterior-design freshening
• Refinement of interior design and functions
• New and/or revised options
• A new generation of the iDrive control and display system
• Expansion of ConnectedDrive functions
• An all-new turbodiesel engine in a new model - the 335d Sedan.

Fundamentally unchanged - and still not successfully challenged in other quarters - are the Series' essential attributes of rear-(or all-)wheel drive, harmonious front/rear weight balance, outstandingly precise steering and skillfully engineered suspension…all of which conspire to produce the uniquely satisfying driving experience that is quintessentially BMW.

And, more than ever, this inimitable driving experience in combination with growing attention to fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness. Thanks to the various facets of BMW EfficientDynamics - especially via the new turbodiesel-powered 335d Sedan - the BMW experience is more satisfying than ever before.

New design accents for greater sportiness and elegance.

The new Sedans are distinguished by a freshened design at the front, in profile and in the rear view; the new Sports Wagons receive the same front-end and profile updates, as well as most elements of the rearview changes.

At the front, width is more strongly accented, though actual width is unchanged. BMW's traditional 4-headlight look is emphasized by the lamps' setting in new chromed "tubes;" the more recently traditional luminous rings around the headlights newly serve as Daytime Running Lamps on vehicles with Xenon Adaptive lights (optional 328i models, standard 335i models). The turn-signal lamps get a new, vertically layered look; in combination with the Xenon headlights these are in LED technology.

In profile, the side sills/rocker panels set a stronger lower accent; newly shaped side mirrors not only have crisp new contours, but also provide an enlarged visual field for the driver.

At the rear, the bumper, taillights and (on the Sedans) trunklid are all newly shaped for a stronger emphasis on the 3's sporty character. The taillights' typical L-shape is now more in evidence, and new LED lighting sources illuminate the taillights and turn-signal lamps. And an actual increase in rear track adds new emphasis to these vehicles' wide stance in rear and Ύ views.

Interior: high-quality materials, enhanced ergonomics and a new-generation iDrive system.

Subtle updates to materials and surface textures make the 3 Series interior even more attractive; refinement of interior design and amenities include enhanced placement of power-window controls for driver and new, expanded storage possibilities.

In the 3 Series, BMW's iDrive control and display system is included in the Navigation option. As in the new 7 Series (where iDrive and Navigation are standard), a 2nd generation of iDrive sets new standards for ergonomics, efficiency and logical functionality with its new, higher-definition, 8.8-in. Control Display. More uniformly structured menus, and an optimized control strategy for the display and console-mounted controller are also signature new features.

Other new details include keys for direct selection of the Radio, CD, Navigation and Telecommunications menus, grouped conveniently next to the controller. Visual assists and consistent hierarchies in the display simplify choices within the individual menus. In the Navigation section, users will experience a new and superior level of brilliance, detail and variability of map displays. A "map preview" function facilitates selection of the navigation destination from a list; in a new operational logic, letters of the alphabet and numerals are arranged in circular form for more intuitive input of addresses and phone numbers.

Hard drive for audio and Navigation data storage.

Newly included in the Navigation option is a hard drive for storage of Navigation data (such as destinations) and audio material (such as music). The large capacity hard drive means quick access, and allows transfer of material from a CD, MP3 player or a USB stick to the hard drive, which can hold up to 8-GB of music.

BMW Assist: expanded capabilities

As a dynamically evolving array of valuable functions, the new 3 incorporates BMW Assist and TeleService functions (both included in the BMW Assist option). Automatic emergency calling, a long-standing standard feature of the BMW Assist telematics scheme, is meaningfully enhanced in the new 3: In the event of a collision of a certain severity, the system transmits to the BMW Call Center the vehicle's location and specifications, as well as data from several onboard sensors that define the type of collision and probability of occupant injury. At the same time, the Call Center attempts to establish a voice connection with the vehicle occupants and deploys emergency services as appropriate.

BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance: high-performance, high-efficiency twin-turbo diesel engine in the 335d Sedan.

As an important element of BMW EfficientDynamics, the new 335d Sedan represents a significant step forward in combining high performance with high fuel efficiency. The 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged inline 6-cylinder diesel engine powering the 335d - its predecessor has been widely acclaimed in Europe - is completely new to the U.S. also new is its BMW BluePerformance emission-control technology.

Among the turbodiesel engine's advanced attributes are aluminum construction, high-pressure direct fuel injection with piezo injectors (also a feature of BMW's twin-turbo gasoline engines), and a turbocharging system that employs both a small and larger turbocharger for optimum response at low and higher speeds.

As a worldwide advance also being newly introduced in Europe, BMW BluePerformance controls emissions to a strict level that enables the 335d to be sold in all 50 U.S. states. Specific features of this system include an exhaust particulates filter and a Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust after-treatment system.

Given the stringent emission control and fuel economy that will truly raise eyebrows (official EPA mileage ratings are not yet available), one might expect performance to suffer. On the contrary: this new power concept achieves not only abundant power (265 hp, 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds with the standard 6-speed automatic transmission), but immense torque (425 lb-ft.) that gives the 335d all-speed acceleration response that simply has to be experienced to be believed. And - a quality of smoothness and sound that fully lives up to the BMW reputation for sonorous power.

Gasoline-powered 3 Series models: continuing the BMW tradition of smoothness, great sound and outstanding fuel efficiency.

All other 3 Series models continue with their (also) acclaimed 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder gasoline engines.

The 328i models are powered by a naturally aspirated (i.e., non-turbo) engine that features advanced, weight-saving magnesium/aluminum construction - still unique among the world's automobiles. Its Valvetronic system enhances efficiency by employing variable valve lift, rather than a throttle, to regulate engine power. This engine produces 230 hp, 200 lb-ft. of torque, and EPA highway mileage ratings as high as 28 mpg (depending on model and transmission) in 2008. It is a sterling example of BMW's long-standing tradition of the smooth, sonically delightful "inline six" that delivers excellent performance.

For those who desire more than merely excellent performance, the 335i models are powered by a completely distinct 3.0-liter six, boosted by twin turbochargers and fed with fuel by High Precision direct fuel injection. This unique and highly advanced unit delivers 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. of torque, 0-60-mph times as quick as 5.4 sec., and EPA highway mileage ratings up to 26 mpg. If the 328i engine has been enthusiastically acclaimed, the 335i unit has garnered downright deliriously praise, particularly by the automotive enthusiast media.

Intelligent all-wheel drive in the 3 Series: the xDrive models.

Continuing for '09 are the two Sedan models and one Sports Wagon model with BMW's truly intelligent AWD system, now taking the system's name into their model designations: 328i xDrive Sedan and Sports Wagon, 335i xDrive Sedan. The Coupe models also have xDrive.

At the core of this permanent AWD system is an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch that steplessly varies torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, and does so with near-instantaneous speed. xDrive doesn't just optimize traction; it can also enhance both agility and stability on grippy as well as slippery road surfaces..

Superlative chassis technology; Active Steering optional on 335i models.

Part and parcel of BMW's tradition as The Ultimate Driving Machine is sophisticated chassis technology. All 3 Series models have BMW's patented double-pivot strut-type front suspension with aluminum components on rear-wheel drive models for reduced unsprung weight. The rear suspension is a 5-link system engineered for a unique combination of agility and reassuring stability.

BMW's steering is just as essential to the driving experience. All 3 Series models come standard with a hydraulic power-steering system whose road feel and precision are legendary; optional on 335i Sedans is Active Steering, which varies both the steering ratio and power assist to further enhance agility, particularly at low to medium driving speeds. Active Steering is another of those BMW innovations that truly has to be experienced to be believed.

Optimized occupant protection: including new Active head restraints on the front seats.

The 3 Series safety concept is based on a solid and rigid body structure that utilizes high-strength steels and targeted deformation elements to channel and absorb collision forces in the most effective way for crash safety. Specific safety equipment and systems include 3-point safety belts and adjustable head restraints at all (five) seating positions. LATCH attachments for child safety seats are standard at the outboard rear seating positions.

New for 2009 are Active front head restraints, which in a rear-end impact employ fast-acting pyrotechnic activation to pivot the restraints' forward portion into close proximity with the occupants' heads: the head restraint, or headrest, moves up to 60 mm/2.4 in. forward and 40 mm/1.6 in. upward. This reduces their heads' rearward motion, lessening the likelihood of whiplash or other head/neck injuries.

Standard airbag equipment in all current 3 Series Sedans and Sports Wagons includes 2-stage, optimally configured front-impact airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags; and a front-to-rear, curtain-type Head Protection system deployed from the interior ceiling.

Advanced forward illumination contributes to active safety.

A significant contribution to active safety, that is the avoidance of accidents, is Xenon Adaptive headlight technology, standard on 335i/335d models and optional on 328i models. In addition to the greater luminous power of Xenon lights, Adaptive means that the headlights "steer" with the front wheels, governed by the vehicle's speed and the "yaw rate" at which its direction is changing. This occurs at all speeds and is especially beneficial at speed on curving rural roads at night.

Newly included on Sedans and Wagons with the Adaptive headlights are Cornering Lights, which direct an angled beam at each front corner to assist in situations of low speed and sharp turns. Additionally, on U.S. models both of these lamps illuminate when reverse gear is engaged. Also included is auto-leveling, which maintains accurate aiming with changing vehicle loading, acceleration and braking to reduce glare to oncoming motorists.

Class-leading automatic climate control.

BMW's automatic climate control provides both effective automatic operation and a high degree of manual "override" control when desired. The 3 Series system is of recent design that incorporates highly refined airflow that is both high-volume and quiet. Fuzzy logic assists in effective temperature regulation, separately for the driver and passenger sides. Other features include activated-charcoal microfilter ventilation; temperature- and volume-controlled air to the rear passenger compartment; a bi-directional solar sensor to account for solar effects; automatic air recirculation when excessive air pollution is sensed; automatic reduction of blower speed when the vehicle comes to a stop; and a misting sensor that detects windshield fogging and adjusts system operation to clear it up.

The design: unique, unmistakable, elegant.

• Subtle new details accent 3 Series' dynamic character.
• New headlights, taillights and side sills.
• Even better ergonomics and esthetics inside.