Enhanced BMW range just months away

BMW will release no fewer than 15 significantly revised or updated models between now and the middle of the year. The enhancements cover Coupe and Convertible 1 and 3 Series variants, X3 SUV models, 6 Series range – including the Gran Coupe – and sporty Z4 roadster.

At the lower end of the BMW portfolio, 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models will be joined by a limited edition High-Line package. Just 25 examples of each body style are available, both adding unique 18-inch alloy wheels, Tobacco-coloured leather upholsetery with contrasting stitching, Chrome Line interior trim, BMW Individual roofliner in Anthracite (Coupe models), a Brown-Silver effect soft top (Convertible models), metallic paint, Fineline stream wood highlights, plus the BMW Innovations package which includes upgraded Business navigation system, bi-xenon headlights, and high-beam assist.

The BMW 1 Series High-Line pack adds $2460 to the manufacturer’s recommended list price for whichever derivative model you choose to so option.

The High-Line treatment will also be applied to selected 3 Series Coupe and Convertible variants. 320d, 325i and 335i M Sport models are eligible for the enhancements, which vary with model grade.

For 320d Coupe and Convertible models the High-Line limited edition package comprises an automatic transmission with gearshift paddles, 18-inch Star-spoke alloy wheels, electric seat adjustment with memory, exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle function, Park Distance Control (front), an upgraded Professional navigation system, and voice control system.

The 320d High-Line Coupe is priced from $64,900 (Manufacturer's List Price) with 320d High-Line Convertible models beginning at $77,900 (MLP).

For 325i, the additional equipment consists of an automatic transmission with gearshift paddles, larger 19-inch Star-spoke alloy wheels, and Park Distance Control (front). The 325i High-Line Coupe is priced from $69,900 (MLP) with 325i High-Line Convertible models starting from $82,900 (MLP).

Topping the 3 Series High-Line range is the high-performance 335i M Sport Coupe and Convertible which offer a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with gearshift paddles and metallic paint for $99,900 (MLP) and $112,900 (MLP) respectively.

Stepping up to X3 SUV variants brings a significant increase in standard specification with all four variants receiving additional equipment at no extra charge. For X3 xDrive20i and xDrive20d variants these upgrades include electric seat adjustment with memory function, Business navigation system, automatic tailgate function and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Higher grade X3 xDrive28i and xDrive30d models add an automatic tailgate (xDrive28i only), X-Line package (xDrive28i only), anti-dazzle folding exterior mirrors, Top View camera system, bi-xenon headlights, Professional navigation, full smartphone connectivity, and lumbar support for both front seat occupants.

The current X3 range is priced from $59,000 (MLP) for the xDrive20i, $63,100 (MLP) for the xDrive20d, $73,000 (MLP) for the xDrive28i, and $76,500 (MLP) for the range-topping xDrive30d.

Specification enhancements continue at the 6 Series range where all variants now include a leather-clad instrument panel, contrasting stitching, and a multifunction instrument display at no additional cost.

The 6 Series range will also be joined by a diesel-powered version of the stylish Gran Coupe, the 640d. The model boasts the same high-output turbo-diesel found in the 535d, which in Gran Coupe is capable of achieving a zero to 100km/h time of 5.4 seconds. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit is still remarkably efficient, consuming only 5.7L/100km on the combined cycle. It is mated exclusively to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The new Gran Coupe 640d is priced identically to its petrol sibling at $184,800 (MLP).

Finally, for those who enjoy the wind in their hair, BMW’s sporty Z4 range will receive a model update towards the end of the financial year with subtle styling changes, revised paint selections, new character packages (expected to reflect ‘Line’ packages on offer with 1 and 3 Series variants), and a revised level of standard specification.

More updates on the face-lifted Z4 will be announced soon.

In addition to the revised model line-up mentioned here, BMW has also announced a new entry model to its 3 Series sedan range, the 316i, and a three-strong 3 Series Touring range, which goes on sale this week.

For a full review of the new BMW 3 Series Touring, visit motoring.com.au again soon.

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