SPY PICS: Next BMW 3 Series outed

BMW’s next-generation 3 Series is still some way off (it’s expected to arrive in 2018), but is expected to be a far more formidable competitor for Mercedes-Benz's smash-hit C-Class, Audi's new-for-2016 A4 and the all-new Jaguar XE.

As the Bavarian company works towards the introduction of its vital new volume-seller, codenamed G20, a mountain of speculation is building as to its aesthetics, mechanical configuration and expected technological advances.

These Automedia photos are the first spy pics of the next 3 Series and don’t give an awful lot away except that BMW is on the case: Strip away the disguise and the body appears to be pretty much a current-generation F30 3 Series with a few bits tacked onto front and rear ends to throw-off inquisitive eyes.

To avoid speculation, all we can say with any certainty is that the next 3 Series will follow design cues from the evolutionary new 5 Series large sedan, which is expected to arrive this year.

But we'll jump onto the bandwagon that says the new 3 Series – like the next-generation 5 Series – will also benefit from wide use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastics to further reduce weight.

As for the engine line-up, we accept it is bound to be a continuation of the current range of petrol and diesel powerplants, particularly three- and four-cylinder versions.

Turbo are likely to be confined to performance models such as the M3, while a plug-in hybrid to replace the upcoming 330e will be part of the deal too.

Whatever BMW does with the G20 3 Series, it will be driven by an all-enveloping need to at least match or exceed its German and British competitors.