Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies
by Sam Abuelsamid on Nov 4th 2009 at 10:39AM 
2012 BMW 3-series prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery
This morning we get our first "clear" look at the next generation BMW 3 Series as one of our intrepid spy photographers captured one sitting on a trailer somewhere in Germany. The newest version of BMW's mainstream model is expected to debut sometime in 2011 as 2012 model. Judging from these shots, it does not appear that the size of the new 3 will change much, although we can expect BMW to implement some weight reduction measures in order to help meet new fuel efficiency and emissions standards. The overall proportions look pretty similar to today's car, but the profile shot indicates a more upright grille stance similar to the new Z4 and 5 Series GT.
The next 3 is also expected to adopt some new powertrains including a new turbocharged and direct-injected three-cylinder engine. When the new 3 arrives here in the U.S., it will likely also mark the return of four-cylinder engines to the brand's U.S. lineup, to which we say, bring on the fuel savings. Thanks to Annie and Andrus for the tips!
Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series
[Photos: CarPix]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
JDM Life 10:45AM (11/04/2009)
Is it me or does it seem larger and longer?
I just hope it looks nothing like the new 7 series...
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MikeofLA 10:48AM (11/04/2009)
For some reason I'm not as excited about this one as I was the E90/E92. I really hope they stop making them bigger and heavier.
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9600baud 10:49AM (11/04/2009)
make it lighter and smaller or i'm not going near that boat.
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DP San Diego 10:50AM (11/04/2009)
Love the new trailer hitch option...is that part of the new redneck package?
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9600baud 10:52AM (11/04/2009)
its just happy to see you
cBraunDesign 10:52AM (11/04/2009)
It wouldn't surprise me if this new 3 had a slightly longer wheelbase. It's biggest competitor right now is the new A4, and it has 2 additional inches of rear legroom over the current E90.
Longer wheelbase isn't that big of a problem if they keep the weight and driving dynamics in check.
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MikeW 10:53AM (11/04/2009)
BMW should just 'redo' its numbering system, to piss off Audi.
7-series now becomes the 9-series
5-series is now the 7-series
3-series is now the 5.
1-series is the new 3.
No one would really drive a '0' series, so the new '1' series can be a front drive, a mini-derivative, etc.
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James Sonne 11:21AM (11/04/2009)
I like that idea. I'd definitely drive something less heavy and a little smaller than the 1-Series, assuming it has the same appointments. I'm a city dweller right now, I want a luxurious but maneuverable vehicle! I'm not 6'9" and 400 lbs, and I don't need my daily car to tow around that much volume, I just want it to be luxurious inside and small enough to parallel park quickly.
Of course, I'll take it with the 3.0 twin turbo, though. Honda Civic sized (at most), BMW luxury and power.
heltersceltic 11:14AM (11/04/2009)
The hitch is a European one, designed to curve around the rear bodywork. No safety chains to prevent runaways over there.
Nothing exciting about this redo- except maybe those taillights.
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JimBob 11:14AM (11/04/2009)
I don't know... this looks rather derivative of the current gen civic.
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Luis 11:24AM (11/04/2009)
why, because of that 3-box design? lame comment.
Eh 11:59AM (11/04/2009)
With the details covered up it looks just like an Altima, complete with the cheap 16" wheels. I hope those arent the stock rims they use on BMW's, but I guess nobody ever buys the bare bones package anyway.
JimBob 1:53PM (11/04/2009)
Guess sarcasm doesn't pass off well on the internet.
David 12:09PM (11/04/2009)
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....
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Luis 11:27AM (11/04/2009)
I hope the round taillight is joke
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mptlptr 11:32AM (11/04/2009)
First the 1 series gets fixed calipers on the front and now the new 3 does too. What happened to BMW's argument that sliding calipers were adequate?
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artandcolour 11:35AM (11/04/2009)
seriously, who gives a flying &*%&$^W^? i lost interest in Bimmers around 1985.
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Farris 11:52AM (11/04/2009)
Loads of people care about BMWs. That's why they sell so many.
PS. If you stopped caring about them in 1985, you've missed A LOT. Go check out an M3... see if that renews your interest.
love handles 12:07PM (11/04/2009)
Every time I see a BMW 3 series, it looks like a Honda Civic. Who is ripping who off? Can I guess that this will also be the shape of the up coming Civic?
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italy430 1:15PM (11/04/2009)
i'm quite shocked actually that you think a honda civic looks like the 3 series. they look completely different. i could see how a kia forte would look like a civic, but even they are different.