The 2018 BMW 3-Series Gets Spotted: Is This The Sportiest BMW Yet? [VIDEO]

Dec 16, 2016 07:04 AM EST | Joanne Zamora

Being tested in Munich is the next BMW 3-series, codenamed G20, the seventh generation model. It is rumored that it will be released in 2018.

Little has changed externally, compared to previously captured prototypes, but Car Magazine was granted the first glimpse of its interior, stating that its artist's impression of the 2018 BMW 3-Series has "sharper creases, harder edges, more adventurous radii, and even tighter cut lines." With an additional fancier polished wheels, motorized grille louvers, matte paint, and LED matrix headlights, this next generation 3-Series is more into substance, character, craftsmanship, and visual and haptic quality.

The BMW 3-Series is set to undercut the 100g/km CO2 emission mark by introducing its three-cylinder engine. Expect a range of powertrain options, including a fully electric model: the car will park itself via remote control, stay in its lane or switch, overtake on its own under certain conditions, brake when necessary, monitor turns and crossroads, and drive semi-autonomously in stop-and-go traffic of up to 40mph.

BMW will be moving the upcoming 3-Series onto its lightweight cluster architecture, known as CLAR, which will cut the weight, according to Car Buzz. One must also keep in mind that the car seen was the M Sport Model, suggesting that it is a sportier version of the D-Segment sedan with its honeycomb pattern on the front bumper, according to Auto Industry News.

Unlike the BMW C-class and the new BMW 5-Series, the BMW 3-Series does not offer optional air suspension, but will get adjustable dampers, switchable anti-roll bars, second-generation active steering, and a new torque vectoring system. Certain features like a longer wheelbase, wider track, lower center of gravity, and lighter kerb weight should enhance both handling and roadholding.

Also included in the expectation list for the 2018 BMW 3-Series are the following: stronger brakes, reduced-friction wheel bearings, adaptive ealstokinematics with track and camber modulation, xDrive AWD with faster torque distribution, and aluminum-carbonfiber compound wheels. Click on the spy video below.

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