Car News: 2012 F30 BMW 3 Series sedan unveiled; Longer and Lighter

Finally, after months of waiting and numerous spy shots of test mules, BMW has unveiled the 2012 F30 BMW 3 Series and judging by the pictures and details we have with us, we must say that we are impressed.

As often happens with model updates, the 3 Series gets larger, increasing length by 3.6 inches. But the good news is that BMW also increased the front and rear track, at the same time lowering overall weight by 40 kgs. And BMW insists it maintained its traditional 50/50 weight distribution.

A slew of more powerful and frugal engines are also in the works for a 2012 launch. Currently, the F30 BMW 3 Series Sedan comes in an all turbo engine guise with all three engines on offer, two petrol and the solitary diesel engine being turbocharged. The all new 2 liter, twin turbo 328i petrol engine produces 245 Bhp of peak power and a whopping 350 Nm of peak torque generated as low as 1,250 rpm. Now, that is what a turbo petrol engine can do and these impressive figures will result in a nought to hundred sprint in a blinding 6 seconds flat.

The other 3 liter turbo petrol engine takes the game even higher with a peak power of 306 Bhp ad 400 Nm of peak torque. The peak torque of the twin turbo six potter is produced even lower down the rev range from as low as 1,200 rpm. This much shove and twist means a 250 kph top whack and a nought to hundred sprint in 5.5 seconds along with decent fuel economy as well. The diesel engine remains the same 2 liter, 184 Bhp-380 Nm turbo diesel mill but with more frugality engineered for good measure.

BMW will make its eight-speed automatic transmission available in the 3 Series, along with its six-speed manual. An idle-stop feature shuts down the engine at traffic stops, helping to save gas. BMW also adds an Eco Pro setting to the drive modes that is designed to maximize fuel economy.

For cabin tech, BMW announced an array of new driver assistance features, such as a full-color head-up display, which would not only show navigation and current vehicle speed, but can also indicate the speed limit on the current road, and whether passing is allowed. Other features will include adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warnings, and surround-view cameras to help prevent parking lot dings.

Expect the new 2012 BMW 3 Series to hit Indian shores sometime early next year. Till then stay tuned for more updates.