BMW has introduced its all-new 3 Series. The 2019 330i variant has been given more power and torque, with a new 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder unit. While spring 2019 will see the release of the M340i, which gets a redeveloped 3.0-liter straight-six.
The new 330i unit promises to deliver 258ps between 5,000rpm and 6,500rpm and a peak torque of 400Nm from 1,550rpm to 4,400rpm. The 7ps increase in output and the extra 50Nm of torque compared with its predecessor are the result an improved TwinPower Turbo system – which is made up of a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection direct gasoline injection, Valvetronic fully variable valve timing and variable camshaft timing.
High Precision Injection ensures precise fuel metering and clean combustion, while the new fuel pump will generate a maximum pressure of 350 bar compared with the 200 bar of the previous version.
The improved direct injection system enables optimal fuel flow through the combustion chambers with atomized fuel delivered by multi-hole injectors. This engine has also been developed to include a lighter crankshaft, reduced internal friction, optimized heat management and a new digital engine management system.
Spring of 2019 will see the arrival of the new BMW M Performance model. Equipped with an updated version of BMW’s straight-six engine, it will produce 387ps and peak torque of 500Nm.
The 330i and 330i xDrive will be fitted with the 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission as standard. The latest upgrade of the automatic transmission sees a wider gear spread – from 7.8 to 8.2 – and also increases internal efficiency and improves vibration suppression.
There is a new control unit and further enhanced gearshift dynamics. In addition to the optimized hydraulic control system, the shorter gearing for the lower ratios boosts acceleration capability.
The 8hp 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission delivers even shorter shift times than previous versions and a Launch Control function for highly dynamic, traction optimized acceleration off the line. Shift paddles on the steering wheel enable manual gear selection.
In addition to the four-cylinder 330i and the M340i, the line-up will expand further to include a BMW iPerformance model with the latest plug-in hybrid drive technology.
