The New M Sport Style
Sleek, sporting and elegant. These are the words to describe the two new 3 Series models launched by BMW Australia : the 335i M Sport model and M3, the latest 3 Series Coupe and Convertible. Both models retain the outstanding 225kW of power and 400Nm of torque as the 335i predecessor, but the new 335i M Sport reduces fuel consumption to 8.4 litres per 100km for the Coupe and 8.8 litres per 100km for the Convertible. This is done via the new 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo Technology engine with High Precision Injection and VALVTRONIC fully variable valve management.
This new engine has been mated to either a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional seven-speed Sports Automatic Double-Clutch Transmission. New gearshift paddles make for quicker and easier shifts, enabling the seven-speed Coupe to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
Beyond what’s under the hood, the 335i M Sport Coupe and Convertible feature a distinct new style featuring a full aerodynamic M Sport body kit with 19-inch double spoke light alloy wheels. Inside, redesigned door sills, multi-function steering wheel, aluminum trim and the BMW Individual anthracite headliner enhance the sporty and elegant feel.
To ensure the driving experience is still trademark BMW, that is, the ultimate driving pleasure, the new series comes standard with lowered, stiffer M Sport suspension, connecting the driver to the road. Five models are offered to match the driving taste and requirements of 3 Series enthusiasts. Sold as both the two-door Coupe and the hardtop four-seater Convertible, there are two diesel models, the 320d and 330d. There are also three petrol models : the entry level 325i, the new 335i M Sport and top-end M3.
Performance, Power and Efficiency
The new M Sport features a range of powerful and efficient engines that meet the strict Euro 5 emissions regulations. The 320d is the leader for efficiency, with an upgraded 2.0-litre turbo diesel four cylinder powerplant that produces 5kW more power and 30Nm more torque, while providing reduced fuel consumption. It is able to generate a maximum power of 135kW at 400rpm and peak torque at 380Nm between 1900 to 2750rpm.
Mated to the new six-speed gearbox, fuel consumption for the 320d is outstanding, covering 4.7l/100km for the Coupe and 5.1l/100km for the Convertible. This newly designed manual gearbox, a first for the 320d model, allows the use of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies, including the standard auto Stop/Start function.
In the 325i, a straight six cylinder 2.5-litre engine generates peak outputs of 160kW at 6500rpm and 250Nm from 2750rpm – 4250rpm, enabling the BMW 325i Coupe to sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds (Convertible 7.8 s). Again, matched to the six-speed manual gearbox, fuel consumption is 7.2l/100km for the Coupe and 9.2l/100km for the Convertible, providing ample power and fuel efficiency. Six-speed automatic transmission is available for both the 320d and 325i.
The 330d provides high performance and efficiency with its 3.0-litre straight six turbo diesel that generates 180kW at 4000rpm and an amazing 520Nm of torque between a low 1750rpm – 3000rpm. The 330d Coupe goes from zero to 100km/h in just 6.1 seconds, while using only 6.2 liters of fuel for every 100km (manual six-speed gearbox).
At the top tier is the new M3. BMW was able to improve the efficiency of its famous 309kW/400Nm 4.0-litre V8 engine by utilizing the standard Auto Stop/ Start feature on both the six-speed manual gearbox and seven-speed Sports Automatic Double-Clutch Transmission. Fuel consumption has improved by six percent by applying the Auto Stop/Start technology the automatic transmission, a first for BMW. The result is the automatic M3 Coupe delivering a combined fuel consumption of 11.2l/100km (with M-DCT).
The new automatic M3 Coupe is able to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds (with M-DCT), and the Convertible in 5.1 seconds (with 7-speed sports automatic transmission). All this contribute to the supreme driving experience of the M3 models, and BMW is offering a Competition Package for the M3 Coupe for those who want even more control and improved handling. This option give the driver a continually adjustable Electronic Damper Control (EDC) system that includes a new Sport mode, modified calibration of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), M Drive and M Y-spoke design 19-inch alloy wheels.
Supreme Comfort and Safety
The new BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible inspire both driver and passenger with superior comfort and safety features. Standard across the line, beginning with the 320d, are climate control, cruise control, power windows, heated exterior mirrors, Bi-Xenon headlights, front and rear fog lights,partial electric seat adjustment for driver and front passenger, and automatic windscreen wipers.
All models also feature safety equipment features, such as Antilock Braking System (ABS) with brake assist and Cornering Brake Control (CBC), dual front, front side and full length side curtain airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Rain Sensor, active front head restraints, and rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
With its new refined engines, sleek looks and high comfort features, the new BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible take the lead in the dynamic luxury sport car segment.
