2006 BMW 3 Series

When BMW announces the introduction of a new model, it is always big news. Automobile enthusiasts and reporters always hold their breath for its unveiling. And it has good reasons to. Since its production a little more than quarter of a decade ago, the BMW 3 Series has mesmerized us with its outstanding little sedans, coupe, hatchbacks and roadsters. While the next generation of 3-Series sedan is a tad far away, with a target release date on the 2005 Frankfurt motor show during September of that year with a demonstration of a concept car to be unveiled prior to the event, the car is in its final stages of development.

 

Based on the upcoming naming scheme, two models, a sedan and a Touring wagon will be tagged as 3-Series, while the 2-door sedan/coupe and a four-seat convertible will be designated as a 4-Series. Discontinuing its current chassis in the fifth generation of the 3 series, the new model will make use of the highly developed 1 series chassis; despite the longer wheelbase it will come in a stretched form.

 

Entry-level 3 series are expected to come with the same motors that power the 1-Series, however, a great range of straight sixes including the lightweight 3.0-liter Valvetronic straight six with 260 hp. As for diesels, expect to see the current ?d? model diesels as well as the new 3.0-liter straight six twin-turbo with 272 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. Everybody's looking forward to the new BMW 3 Series and despite the high expectations, it is shaping up to meet all this demands.