BMW 3 Series

The new BMW 3 Series sports new looks and a much improved iDrive system

The new 3 Series you see here is just a mid-life upgrade for the Bavarian car makers' entry-level model in India. And though, the car gets new engines internationally, in India, the drivetrain and other mechanical bits remain same.
But, it's not completely a bad thing because the 3, even in it's earlier avatar, was a great driver's car. So, the steering on the new car is still heavy and crisp; the handling, still entertaining, and the ride, far from plush.
The engines continue unchanged too. The diesel we sampled in the Highline guise sports the old 2.0-litre engine that makes 177bhp and 350Nm of torque. The car manages the 0-100kmph dash in 8.5 seconds and eventually runs out of breath at around 215kmph.
Significant changes though are more superficial - there's a raised central ridge in the bonnet, a re-profiled kidney grille and a more muscular front bumper. These, along with the new set of alloy wheels, give the car a more purposeful and sporty aura. The tail lamp and bootlid design have also been revised.
Changes inside the cabin are though harder to spot. In fact, apart from the new iDrive's control knob and an additional set of lights for the rear passengers, there's nothing new. So, one still has no real stowage space to put accessories away. Moreover, having rear only parking sensors for the Highline model, is being stingy to say the least.
The new iDrie though is a hot to use. It gets short cut keys and is easier to navigate. The display is simply superb; the graphics are as good as a high end game, and it's pretty interactive and simple as well.