NoSoup4U
03-04-2003, 05:44 PM
Good god -- Bangle's "flame-sided" lines are now BMW trademarks?? I hate those lines, no offense to new owners... and I definitely still do not like the high trunk lid. AWD versions of the M3??? Interesting to say the least....what are your guys' thoughts
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http://www.autoexpress.co.uk ?:
Thursday 27th February 2003
New 3 Joins Flame Academy
Exclusive pictures of the next-generation BMW 3-Series in the current issue of Auto Express magazine clearly show how the newcomer will look, and it appears the German firm is taking a bold step forward with the car's styling.
The 3-Series will feature designer Chris Bangle's trademark 'flame-sided' lines, first seen on the 7-Series. At the front, the curved nose and drooping grille echo the Z4's, while the high boot lid and low load sill follow BMW's family look. The four-door saloon appears first, late next year, with a coupé, cabrio and Touring arriving in mid-2005.
There will be a revolution under the skin, too, as the firm bids to create the most technically advanced car in its class. It will use a simplified version of the 7-Series' iDrive system, and incorporate a full telecommunications package including Internet access on flagship models. The quick-shifting SMG box offered on the current M3 will be made available as an option across the range.
Driver appeal will continue to be a key marketing point. Fully adjustable suspension can be controlled electronically from the cabin, while a development of the firm's famed Z-axle set-up will ensure taut handling. Rear-wheel drive will remain as standard, but the company is also developing a 4WD version to go head-to-head with Jaguar's X-Type and the Audi A4 quattro.
Engine choices will include 2.0 and 2.2-litre four-cylinder units, plus 2.5 and 3.0 six-pots. The flagship 345i will use an all-new 4.5-litre V8. Diesel fans will have a choice of 2.2, 3.0 or 4.0 units. BMW is also planning to further develop the M3 range, and will be offering both two and four-wheel-drive versions of the top performer. It will be powered by a tuned variant of the 345i's V8, developing in excess of 400bhp. Craig Cheetham
************************************************
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk ?:
Thursday 27th February 2003
New 3 Joins Flame Academy
Exclusive pictures of the next-generation BMW 3-Series in the current issue of Auto Express magazine clearly show how the newcomer will look, and it appears the German firm is taking a bold step forward with the car's styling.
The 3-Series will feature designer Chris Bangle's trademark 'flame-sided' lines, first seen on the 7-Series. At the front, the curved nose and drooping grille echo the Z4's, while the high boot lid and low load sill follow BMW's family look. The four-door saloon appears first, late next year, with a coupé, cabrio and Touring arriving in mid-2005.
There will be a revolution under the skin, too, as the firm bids to create the most technically advanced car in its class. It will use a simplified version of the 7-Series' iDrive system, and incorporate a full telecommunications package including Internet access on flagship models. The quick-shifting SMG box offered on the current M3 will be made available as an option across the range.
Driver appeal will continue to be a key marketing point. Fully adjustable suspension can be controlled electronically from the cabin, while a development of the firm's famed Z-axle set-up will ensure taut handling. Rear-wheel drive will remain as standard, but the company is also developing a 4WD version to go head-to-head with Jaguar's X-Type and the Audi A4 quattro.
Engine choices will include 2.0 and 2.2-litre four-cylinder units, plus 2.5 and 3.0 six-pots. The flagship 345i will use an all-new 4.5-litre V8. Diesel fans will have a choice of 2.2, 3.0 or 4.0 units. BMW is also planning to further develop the M3 range, and will be offering both two and four-wheel-drive versions of the top performer. It will be powered by a tuned variant of the 345i's V8, developing in excess of 400bhp. Craig Cheetham