BMW's much loved model, the 3 Series has gotten a cosmetic enhancement with some extra tech goodies to add to its charm. It's the most popular model in the world globally from the brand and for decades it was made right here in our own country until a few years ago when the last F30 LCI model rolled out the factory in Rosslyn outside Pretoria. Now the plant assembles the new popular kid on the block, the X3 but we won't delve into that as I am here to tell you about the brilliant new 3 Series LCI, yes I said its brilliant and some of you must be wondering what is "LCI"? Well, it stands for Life Cycle Impulse which is a pretty name for face-lift but I get why BMW go for the elaborate name because its more than just a face-lift, it feels like a brand new car.
The design is more sportier, with the stance lower and wider than the original G80, the iconic kidney grilles are narrower, with vertical slats and the new headlights have a reverse L daytime running LED design that add so much more character to an already menacing face. The front bumper has been reconfigured with the side air intakes now in a an narrow angular deep shape and the main grille larger and prominent following the same lines as the sides. The 3 Series LCI comes in two style packages, this was decided by BMW SA since the two most popular were the Sport and M Sport package. These packages I feel accentuate the cars flow and make the modifications to the design stand out more. Moving to the back, the tail lights receive a minor design upgrade with the rear diffuser getting a more angular design and all models coming with twin big tailpipes. There is a variety of colours to choose from but Brooklyn Grey being my standout.
On the inside, the major talking point is the new display, which see's BMW do away with its conventional dual screen set up and opt for a large curved screen display, it still is split into two, this is to allow a separation from the drivers instrument cluster to the cars infotainment touch screen display. It doesn't feature BMW's latest iOS but it still works pretty well with quick phone connectivity, easy to use menu and great graphics. Another thing you will notice that is different on the interior is the gear selector which is changed to the smaller minimal type, that allows more room in the center console area of the cabin. As always, the textures and trims in the BMW is second to none with a range of colours and fabrics to choose from.
On launch I got to drive two engine variants, the 320d and the range topping M340i, both offering their own charm and uniqueness but both being thoroughly enjoyable to drive. First up we went for the big boy, the M340i, offering so much power and performance, every time I drive it, I wonder if it really is worth dropping all that more money for an M3, but that is a conversation for another day when I actually get to go behind the wheel of an M3. The 3.0L, 6 Cylinder beast churns out 285kW and 500Nm of torque, combined with its xDrive system which can dictate how much power gets transferred to the front and back wheels, makes it all the more exciting to drive. Launching this car sees it race from 0-100km/h in just 4.3 seconds but I've done it a few times and I'm pretty sure its quicker than that. Handling is just superb, with that xDrive system along with the adaptive suspension and M Performance braking, makes it easy to tame this beast around corners.
The 320d, while not boasting the same crazy figures as the M340i, still delivers a decent 140kW and 400Nm of torque from its 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Diesel engine. On the launch I tweeted that this still remains my favourite car from the model line up, it offers the perfect balance between performance and practicality. The Diesel motor from BMW is extremely efficient and when dialed in the various driving modes it can certainly deliver the power when required. With the new concept of offering more as standard in the BMW line up, one will find that the usual options list has dried up dramatically, with again BMW SA opting to choose the popular options that were purchased in previous generations of the car. This is certainly putting BMW in good steed with the market as the purchase price is more attractive with so much included in the base models. The model has been available since December last year and with the amount I've been seeing on the roads already, its already looking like a winner in its segment.
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