BMW is counted among the most renowned automobile brands in the world. The model series by BMW is synonymous with an efficient engine, luxury and performance. The BMW 3-Series is also one of these series, a complete package of safety, agility and luxury features.
To date, seven generations of 3-Series are launched by the brand. Let’s dissect these generations and learn more about the BMW 3-series history.
BMW 3-Series Generations
According to the annual used luxury car market report 2021, BMW 3-Series is one of the most popular sedans in the UAE. The core reasons for this popularity are higher driveability, grandeur interior and technologically advanced features.
Here are the complete details regarding BMW 3-Series different models.
First Generation E21 (1975 to 1983)
The first generation of the 3-Series debuted in 1975 with a kidney-shaped front grille and rounded headlights. The rear end of the car was raised up with contours running from the rear to the front end.
The cabin was designed with a C-pillar that aids in its style. Also, the dashboard of the car was angled toward the driver that was rear in the vehicles of that time. Under the hood, two engine options were offered: 1.6 and 2.3-litre 4 and 6-cylinder engines.
Second Generation E30 (1982 to 1994)
The second-generation 3-Series was offered in different car body types including two-door convertible and four-door sedan. The front fascia receives a facelift with twin headlights, a black grille and indicators installed on front bumpers. The body-coloured bumpers were also ahead of their time, with rubber strips embedded at the corners.
Inside the car cabin, the dashboard was equipped with necessary controls placed under the infotainment system. At the front, bucket seats were installed and for the back, a bench for three passengers was present. The AC and tachometer were optional in this generation.
A wide range of engines was offered in this generation including 1.6 and 3.2-litre 4 and 6-cylinder engines. Moreover, manual and automatic transmission systems were also optional.
Third Generation E36 (1990 to 2000)
The third-generation 3-Series was completely different from its predecessors. The front fascia was completely redesigned with extended kidney-shaped grilles and elongated headlights. Same coloured bumpers were present with fog lights installed on them. Whereas, the indicators move upward next to the headlights. The angle A and C-lines on the exterior represents the agility and comfort the generation will offer.
The comfort level was increased by installing extended front seats. Whereas, crumple zone was also present in this generation due to the extended front end. Moreover, power steering, on-board computer, airbags and climate control system were also present. Among all the BMW 3-Series models, it was the first one to replace a two-door sedan with a coupe.
The engine options include a 1.6 and 3.2-litre diesel engines and 1.8 and 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engines.
Fourth Generation E46 (1997 to 2006)
The fourth-generation BMW 3-Series was offered in coupe, compact and convertible body types. A curved rooftop was installed that increased the headroom for the occupants. The kidney grilles were more enlarged to cool down the engine temperature more rapidly. Inside the cabin, the dashboard was more simplified and no longer directed toward the driver. This generation is still known for its safety features including anti-lock braking system and six airbags.
The generation received a facelift in the 2000s with a new set of headlights and taillights. Also, an upgraded steering and paddle shifter were installed in the facelifted trims.
The base models of the fourth generation were offered with 1.6 and 4.0-litre petrol and diesel engines. Whereas, the facelifted models were offered with a 3.0-litre engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission system.
Fifth Generation E90/E91/E92/E93 (2005 to 2013)
The fifth generation debuted at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. This generation was available in coupe and cabriolet car bodies. The exterior of this generation was inspired by two different types of car bodies, the front end resembles that of a coupe: whereas, the rear end was designed like a sedan. The front radiator grille and headlights were more upward and elongated contrary to the previous generation.
The interior was also upgraded with a iDrive system, which was used for the first time among all the BMW 3-Series generations. Along with it, navigation and infotainment systems were also updated. A number of functions in the car were joystick operational. Due to technologically advanced features, the launching year of this generation can be considered the best year for BMW 3-Series.
The earlier models were rolled-off with a 6.1-litre 4-cylinder engine. Later, a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine was also introduced. Two different transmission systems were available: a 5-speed manual and automatic and 6-speed manual and automatic transmission systems.
Sixth Generation F30/F31/F34 (2011 to 2018)
The sixth-generation BMW 3-Series was a future-oriented classic vehicle with a sporty exterior. The generation receives a redesigned headlight and taillight to cater to its sporty exterior. For the interior, BMW offers a wide range of customisable options. Customers can choose from paint combination and upholstery to function as per their will. Three different trims of this generation were available namely Sport Line, Modern Line and Luxury Line.
In this generation, BMW specifically focuses on reducing the fuel economy of petrol and diesel engines. It was also the first one among BMW 3-Series all models to be offered with a hybrid engine. A wide range of internal combustion engines including 1.6 and 4.0-litre 4,6 and 8-cylinders engines were available.
Seventh Generation G20/G21 (2018 to Present)
The current generation of 3-Series receives a makeover with improved car aerodynamics and a larger front grille. The car also embedded signature elements from its predecessors like twin headlights, prominent contours and short overhangs. Different parts of this model series were manufactured from aluminium to contribute to an overall weight reduction of the vehicle.
The interior was equipped with technologically advanced and driver-assist features. The car is offered with semi-autonomous driving, adaptive voice and gesture controls and a number of safety features.
The seventh generation also offers a hybrid and electric engine with a range of 65km with a fully charged battery. For internal combustion engines, 2.0 and 3.0-litre 4 and 6-cylinder engines are available. The engine is accompanied by an 8-speed automatic Steptronic transmission system.
This was the complete BMW 3-Series history with details of its different models and generations. The 3-Series is considered one of the most comfortable luxury vehicles in its category. If you are looking for the best BMW 3-Series to buy, browse through these used BMW 3-Series cars for sale in the UAE and leverage the comfort and luxury it offers.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on BMW 3-Series models.
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