Latest reports state that the next generation BMW 3 could be expected with a plug-in hybrid variant. The current generation 3 series was launched globally in late 2012 and the manufacturer is upgrading the premium sedan which is soon expected to make a debut.
The upcoming 3 series is expected to be 60mm longer and 40kg lighter than its predecessor, due to its CLAR underpinnings. The lighter chassis could help the 3 series become more efficient and as a result, the upcoming sedan could have a longer range of 400 km. However, details available are sketchy at the moment.
Powering the new 3 series will be a range of petrol and diesel engines. The current 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and diesel mills will be carried forward with minor tweaks in power figures. However, the plug-in-hybrid variant could see a 1.6-litre three cylinder petrol engine coupled with an electric motor. The higher variants could be equipped with BMW’s x-Drive all-wheel drive system as an option. A more potent M3 is quite likely, with an in-line six cylinder layout.
The BMW G20 3 series is expected to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September or early next year at 2018 Geneva Motor Show or Paris Motor Show. The new sedan will be showcased as the 2019 model. The Indian market can expect the new 3 series to be showcased at the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo early next year.
The plug-in hybrid variant will compete with the Tesla Model 3 in the international markets. The Indian-speculated BMW 3 series will continue to compete against the Mercedes C-class, Jaguar XE, Audi A4 and the Volvo S60.
