BMW lifts price for updated 3 Series

BMW's update for the volume-selling 3 Series range kicks off in Australia at $54,900 before on-road costs. That's a small but significant price hike, offset by improved engineering and added features.

Local deliveries for the LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) update of the 3 Series will commence in October, with the new 318i model that replaces the 316i in the superseded model range following one month later. The new 3 Series variants can be identified by a facelift to bumpers, tail lights and exhaust outlets (larger), but the big news is the three-cylinder engine in the 318i variants.

Developing 100kW and 220Nm, the 1.5-litre engine is rated at exactly the same output as the 1.6-litre four-cylinder in the 316i. Fuel consumption figures are reduced across the board, with the 318i – 5kg lighter than the 316i – officially rated at 5.4L/1000km. The 320i is down from 6.0 to 5.8L/100km and BMW now claims 4.4L/100km for the 320d.

The 330i variants replace the 328i model with output amounting to 185kW and 350Nm for the upgraded four-cylinder. Capping the range is the six-cylinder 340i, which supplants the 335i with a new six-cylinder mill generating 15kW more power (now 240kW) and 50Nm more torque (now 450Nm).

All models are fitted as standard with eight-speed automatic transmissions, and BMW has tweaked the revised 3 Series range to deliver improved steering and ride quality.

Inside, all new 3 Series models gain chrome accents, a high-gloss centre fascia, ambient lighting and dual-zone climate control.

Standard equipment for all LCI models includes reversing camera, head-up display, Lane Change Warning, Driving Assistant, Surround View with 360 degree visibility, LED Headlights, ConnectedDrive Lifestyle and Real Time Traffic Information.

The 320i and 320d build on the 318i specification with lights package, electric seat with memory function, Adaptive M Suspension and DAB+ Digital Radio as standard. Rounding out the four-cylinder variants, the 328i comes with the same features as the 320i, with the following items in addition: 19-inch alloy wheels, navigation system professional, leather upholstery and comfort access.

As the only six-cylinder variant in the range, the 340i comes with the following equipment as standard: M Sport Package, Electric roller sunblinds for rear window, Roller sunblinds for rear side windows, Harman / Kardon Surround Sound System, Extended Bluetooth, Lumbar Support, Variable Sport Steering, BMW Individual instrument panel finished in leather
Heated front seats, Adaptive LED Headlights, LED Fog Lights, Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function, Parking Assistant, Concierge Services, Internet and High Beam Assistant.

"The latest BMW 3 Series will make its mark by virtue of its improved performance, specification levels and technology," said BMW Australia's Head of Product and Market Planning, Shawn Ticehurst.

"The 3 Series remains the most successful model in our current product range, proving the enduring reputation of its concept."

"This latest model, which arrives as we celebrate 40 years of the BMW 3 Series, introduces exciting changes inside and out across the range, with extensive levels of technology and innovation.

"With boosts in power and standard equipment, the new BMW 330i Sedan and Touring and 340i Sedan deliver premium motoring with sporting intent, while the attractively priced and highly specified 318i is a clear drawcard, marking the comeback of a popular name."

Pricing for the upgraded model range is now:
318i Sedan ($54,900),
320i Sedan ($61,900) and Touring ($65,300),
320d Sedan ($63,800),
330i Sedan ($69,900) and Touring ($73,300),
340i Sedan ($89,900)