The BMW 3 Series received a complete redesign in 2019. The major change was the platform that the 3 Series uses as well as implementing a wider range of engine options. The new BMW 3 Series is slightly longer with 3 inches and has an extended wheelbase by 1.6 inches. The newer version looks unsurprisingly more aggressive than the older one.
The 2019 BMW 3 Series design improvements
The BMW 3 Series has always been a benchmark for luxury premium sedans on the lower price range spectrum. In 2019 BMW decided to slightly redesign their beloved and bestselling 3 Series. The new generation was launched and unveiled at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.
The new design is slightly larger and provides a more aggressive, yet smooth look to the vehicle. There are not many dramatical changes but it feels modern and swift to the look. Despite it being larger, the new BMW 3 Series has shed some weight. It is surprisingly lighter by a whole 121 lbs or 55 kilograms than the previous version. And with a new improver drag coefficient of 0.26, the luxury sedan slices through the air easily at top speed.
Exterior Changes of the new BMW 3 Series
Frontal Changes
Regarding the exterior, there are some visual changes that you can notice right away. Aside from being slightly larger, the new BMW 3 Series also brings in more aggressive looks. To start with the front, the traditional BMW dual kidney grille is larger and positioned slightly higher. Not only that, but this BMW emphasizes it being a BMW by further enhancing the kidney with chrome trim pieces.
The standard full-LED front headlights are at a larger angle and join with the kidney in a more sharply, aggressive manner. The hood of the new BMW 3 Series appears bulkier than ever.
The wheels of the new model are quite similar to the last one. The spokes are placed in a much more separated fashion, as well as being thinner than the previous ones. The headlights are less angled than the anterior BMW 3 Series and are more horizontal in comparison.
Rear Changes
Despite the front being pretty similar to the last one, the rear part of the BMW 3 Series is slightly more dynamic now. With a wider C-pillar, the trunk is quite angled upward and makes the rear look a lot smoother. With a gentle lip spoiler, the back looks well finished and stylish
The rear stop lights are smaller and more elegant with the gentle curve of the back spoiler coming out of their middle. The back is slightly elongated, somewhat resembling the beautiful Lexus RC.
Interior Changes of the new BMW 3 Series
Compared to the exterior, there are not many changes in the interior. The same tri-spoke steering wheel remains, as well as other emblematic BMW elements such as the iDrive controller, the rigid shift stick, and the infotainment. The newer version feels like the cabin is less separated in terms of driver position and passenger position since there is no low thin wall positioned between them, just right to the gear lever, like the older model had.
The central infotainment has been misplaced from the top of the dashboard, and instead, it is more seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. It seems like a major improvement as it is still close to the road, where the driver should be looking during the ride, without distracting him too much. Other notable changes in the interior are that the analog cluster has been changed with a brand new fully digital setup.
The engine of the new BMW 3 Series G20 / G21
The G20 BMW is the sedan version of the new BMW 3 Series and just like the wagon G21, brings in a lot of engine options. There are 6-speed manual available gearboxes as well as 8-speed automatics that are often preferred.
Gasoline engines available:
- 1.5 L B38 l3
- 2.0 L B48 l4
- 3.0 L B58 l6
- 3.0 L S58 l6
- As well as a gasoline turbocharged PHEV 2.0 L B48 l4
Diesel engines:
- 2.0 L B47 l4
- 3.0 L B57 l6
Aside from all these engine options, there is also a plug-in hybrid version with an l4 turbo plus an electric motor that is introduced.
Safety of the BMW 3-Series G20/ G21
The G20 and G21 both scored 5 stars out of 5 in the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) with the amazing 97% rating for adult occupants and 87% for child passengers. Aside from that it also scored 76% for safety assist and 87% for pedestrian, which are all great scores. The BMW 3-Series is as safe as any vehicle could be.
FAQ
In what versions is the new BMW 3 Series available?
The new 2019 – 2020 BMW 3 Series is available in Sport Line, M Sport and SE versions. Depending on your choice, the prices start from around $49,000 from the basic trim level Sedan and range all the way up to $80,000 for the M-Sport which is the top of the range and brings in quite a powerful engine.
Are the new BMW 3 Series good cars?
The new BMW 3 Series has amazingly responsive handling and brings immense driving pleasure. The BMW 3 Series offers a wide range of engine options suited to most needs, but if you are going for the luxury sedan, spend a few extra bucks and get the bigger engine, you won’t regret it.
Which is the most reliable BMW 3 Series ever made?
After the year 2000, the most reliable BMW 3 Series is the non-turbocharged E90 3 Series manufactured in 2006. Despite it not having the most powerful engine, many drivers have reported reaching more than 200,000 miles with this vehicle.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a BMW that predates 2000, the most reliable ones are the 1993 – 2000 BMW E36 3-Series.
