On October 2nd BMW revealed the 7th generation 3 Series, the G20. The 3 Series has captured the concept as the Ultimate Driving Machine for the last 40 years. The 2019 330xi will have a new 2.0-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine that will push out 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. The new 330xi will have an impressive 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds. The starting price of the 330xi will be around $42,250 plus an additional destination fee.
BMW introduces the M340xi to the 3 Series family. This vehicle will have an inline 6-cylinder turbo engine with an incredible 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. The M340xi will go from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds. The pricing of the M340xi has yet to be determined, but based off of the 330xi, we can imagine what the price range will be.
Size wise, the G20 has not made any drastic changes. It’s about 3” longer than the previous model and about .5” taller as well. The trunk has increased about 1.2 cubic feet. The G20 introduces two new colors to its lineup, Portimao Blue Metallic and Vermont Bronze Metallic. The G20 also introduces new interior options. Vernasca Leather has been introduced and it comes with five different colors with decorative quilting and seam patterns. The G20 has a couple of safety features standard such as collision and pedestrian warning with city breaking function. The standard safety option adds ease and extra safety to the driver.
The G20 will have some additional upgrades to the car. For example, the Comfort Access. The new Comfort Access will automatically unlock if the key fob is in a certain range and will lock when it moves out of range. This eliminates the issue of unlocking or locking your door if your hands are full or if you can’t find your key. The next upgrade is the BMW Digital Key. The BMW Digital Key is only available for Samsung Galaxy smart phones running Android 8.0 or above. It allows your vehicle to be locked and unlocked from your smart phone via NFC technology. Your smart phone can even open the door for you. All you have to do is hold your smart phone to the handle and it will open. Placing your Android in the Wireless Charging Tray allows your engine to start for your convenience. The last thing BMW Digital Key allows you to do is share your digital key with up to five people. That’s right, five. If you’re generous and allow people to drive your Ultimate Driving Machine, this option is perfect for you!
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is introduced to the G20. Saying “Hey BMW” activates the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The Personal Assistant eventually learns the driver’s habits, driver settings and routines. It can even explain how functions work! For example, say, “Hey BMW, how does the Blind Spot Monitor work?” From there, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will explain how the Blind Spot Monitor works. After a period of time your BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant learns how everyday commands or questions are given and settings that are selected. BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant gives the driver an ability to change settings and options all in a safe way.
The G20 is a one of a kind BMW. New technology, aesthetics, everything a new car deserves. The G20 is expected to land in stores in the early spring!