BMW only recently released the first images and details of its all-new 7 Series flagship (more here), and the Bavarian manufacturer has now followed up by revealing its updated 3 Series sedan.
The E90 3 Series sedan launched here in 2005, and still forms the backbone of BMW's Australian sales, but with a new Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4 in the fray, the time has clearly come for a nip-tucked model.
The main visual changes are to the nose, with a new bumper/spoiler assembly featuring revised air intakes in the lower half. The headlights have also been mildly reworked, and there's a new bonnet with a power bulge of sorts.
Tweaks to the rear are even subtler and only train-spotters will discern the new tail-lights and bumper.
The changes were reportedly carried out to create a greater impression of width, and this goal may have been partially influenced by the advent of the new C-Class and A4, which appear to have a broader, more formidable stance.
Interior updates include the incorporation of the latest generation of the company's trademark iDrive controller (supposedly easier to use in its latest guise) and more services (including internet access) provided by the BMW ConnectDrive telematics system.
The cabin's layout, featuring a blend of concave and convex surfaces, is largely as before, but new trim materials are introduced to help freshen it up.
Technical updates include the debut of BMW's new 'BluePerformance' diesel technology, which is its riposte to Mercedes-Benz's BlueTec.
The first BluePerfomance model is the 330d, which features a new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that meets EU6 emissions regulations, even though these don't come into force until 2011. All other engines are carried over from the current car.
The suspension architecture hasn't been tampered with, but the rear track on the six-cylinder models has been widened by 24mm, and this may contribute to greater cornering stability.
Meanwhile, BMW is using the launch of the E90 3 Series sedan to coincide with the introduction of its new seven-speed M-DCT sequential gearbox in the 335i Coupe and Convertible.
As per the Volkswagen Group's excellent DSG unit, M-DCT features two clutches -- one for even-numbered gears and another for the odd ratios -- and this set-up delivers far quicker and smoother shifts than can be achieved by the single-clutch SMG sequential used in the M5 and M6.
» Watch the Carsales Network's video on the BMW 3 Series here
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