BMW revealed the revised versions of the 3 Series sedan and touring last year. However, it left out the weird-looking 3 Series Gran Turismo model. They didn't forget about it or cancel the project. In fact, we have fresh spy photos of the Life Cycle Impulse that's supposed to come out later in 2016.
Car paparazzi stationed in Germany captured a couple of slightly different prototypes testing on regular roads and at the Nurburgring. One is a regular model, and the other is the M Sport line that looks a little more sculpted than before.
Besides installing new bumpers at both ends of the car, BMW also changed the headlights using the same design as the all-new 7 Series and the 3 Series sedan facelift. It's the only major change in an otherwise discreet transformation. Around the back, we see brand new taillight graphics that mirror those of the regular 3 Series sedan.
According to our information, the last 3 Series model to get an LCI will come out in July 2016. Just like the F30 sedan, there will be brand new engines being offered.
For example, the 328i will be replaced by the 330i, still powered by a 2-liter turbo, but producing slightly more power at 252 HP. Next up, the 335i will be replaced by the 340i which will be powered by a 326 HP 3-liter mill. On the diesel front, we know for sure that the 325d model will get a bump in power to 231 HP instead of the current 218 HP. These B-series engines offer not only more power but also slightly better fuel economy.
Who knows, there might even be a 3-cylinder, 1.5-liter version, like the 318i. However, we are not holding our breath, as the exhaust system is all wrong for the 318i (it would have just one small pipe). The power is not a problem, but the lack of torque can be. Expect the chassis changes to carry over from the other 3 Series models. Last year, they got altered top mounts, dampers, power steering tuning and a slightly lower ride height.
Finally, we should see some welcomed trim updates on the inside, as well as a new iDrive system with touch-screen controls.
Besides installing new bumpers at both ends of the car, BMW also changed the headlights using the same design as the all-new 7 Series and the 3 Series sedan facelift. It's the only major change in an otherwise discreet transformation. Around the back, we see brand new taillight graphics that mirror those of the regular 3 Series sedan.
According to our information, the last 3 Series model to get an LCI will come out in July 2016. Just like the F30 sedan, there will be brand new engines being offered.
For example, the 328i will be replaced by the 330i, still powered by a 2-liter turbo, but producing slightly more power at 252 HP. Next up, the 335i will be replaced by the 340i which will be powered by a 326 HP 3-liter mill. On the diesel front, we know for sure that the 325d model will get a bump in power to 231 HP instead of the current 218 HP. These B-series engines offer not only more power but also slightly better fuel economy.
Who knows, there might even be a 3-cylinder, 1.5-liter version, like the 318i. However, we are not holding our breath, as the exhaust system is all wrong for the 318i (it would have just one small pipe). The power is not a problem, but the lack of torque can be. Expect the chassis changes to carry over from the other 3 Series models. Last year, they got altered top mounts, dampers, power steering tuning and a slightly lower ride height.
Finally, we should see some welcomed trim updates on the inside, as well as a new iDrive system with touch-screen controls.