This time, the car tests took place in high-temperature conditions in Death Valley, which is located in Nevada. In addition, the car was tested in the Swedish town of Arjeplog at extremely low temperatures, in the south of France, on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and at the test site in Aschheim.
The car will be built on the CLAR platform and equipped with a completely redesigned suspension. Compared to its predecessor, the center of gravity of the new car has been lowered by 10 mm, and the weight distribution across the axles is ideal — 50:50. The weight of the BMW 3-Series has been reduced by 55 kg, but the strength of the body and suspension structure has increased by 15-20%. The drag coefficient is 0.23.
The engine lineup will include a new gasoline unit that will become the most powerful four-cylinder engine in BMW's history. At the same time, according to the developers, the engine will be about 5% more economical than its predecessor.
Optionally, the new model will be available with a retuned sport M suspension with a 10 mm lower ground clearance, an electronically controlled rear differential, and 18-inch aluminum wheels.
The official premiere of the new model will take place at the Paris Motor Show in October this year. Sales of the car in Europe will most likely start only next year.
