As the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series plows through its fourth year of production, we've begun to catch glimpses of the sixth-generation car set for 2012. Today, we've captured the first images of the next BMW 3 Series Wagon.
Known as the Touring model in Europe, the 3 Series Wagon is expected to ride on a longer wheelbase than the next-generation sedan. Other than the chassis stretch and wagon bodywork, expect the car to be virtually identical to the sedan. From these pictures and
past spy shots of the sedan, we can see that the next-generation 3 Series, codenamed F30, will get a more upright nose (likely to meet pedestrian crash requirements) that will bring its styling more in line with the new 5 and 7 Series cars.
According to reports,
the next generation of 3 Series models will get back to basics with four- and six-cylinder engines rather than the current crop of six- and eight-cylinder engines. Lower models are expected to get turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engines with up to 252 horsepower and turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engines with up to 245 horsepower. There's no definitive word on whether or not the current 300-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder gasoline engine will remain, but the next M3 model is expected to get a new twin-turbo gasoline six-cylinder good for 450 horsepower.
The next-generation BMW 3 Series is expected to debut sometime next year prior to its launch date in March 2012. The wagon seen here is expected to follow in September 2012, with a new Gran Turismo model coming in March 2013. A coupe in September 2013 and convertible in March 2014 will round out the lineup.
Thanks to:
Motor Trend
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