Overview

What's New for 2012:

• All-new sedan model for 2012
• Sedan is bigger and wider than its predecessor, but lighter
• New low-displacement turbocharged engines for sedan promise improved efficiency
• coupe, wagon, and convertible models carry over

Exterior Features
The 2012 BMW 3 Series is available in compact sport sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible body styles. Sixteen-inch alloy wheels are standard, with larger wheels available on higher grades.

Interior Features
The 2012 BMW 3 Series offers seating for up to 5 passengers. Base 3 Series models are configured with leatherette vinyl upholstery, rain-sensing wipers, air conditioning with automatic climate control, full power accessories, and more. Higher trim levels are equipped with auto-dimming exterior mirrors, sport-tuned suspension, and other amenities.

Optional Features
While BMW has bundled many of its options into packages (Premium, Sport, Cold Weather, and Technology), individual options for the 3 Series include navigation, active cruise control, active steering, satellite radio, iPod interface, Harman Kardon audio system, M Suspension package, and more.

Under the Hood
BMW 3 Series models are fitted with one of several engines. The standard powerplant in the new sedan is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, and is rated at 240 horsepower. The new inline 4-cylinder engine is mated to a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The standard engine in the coupe, wagon, and convertible models is a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder, and is rated at 230 horsepower. A twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder, rated at 300 horsepower, is optional. These two engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) optional on some models.

Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy figures for the 2012 BMW 3 Series are:

• BMW 3 Series RWD with 3.0-liter gasoline engine and automatic transmission: 18/28/21 mpg (city/highway/combined)
• BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon AWD with 3.0-liter gasoline engine and automatic transmission: 17/25/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)

Safety
Standard safety features of note on the 2012 BMW 3 Series include side curtain air bags for all rows and front-seat side air bags. The BMW 3 Series sedan, new for 2012, has not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2012 wagon received a rating of 4 (out of 5) stars for rollover, according to the NHTSA, but was not assigned an overall or side-impact rating. In tests conducted by the IIHS, the 3 Series wagon received a "Good" rating-the Institute's highest-for frontal-offset and side-impact crashes, but received an "Acceptable" rating in the Institute's roof-strength tests.