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[extract] The newly launched F30 BMW 3series is bound to be a hit among most young (and not so young) urban professional. A lot equate the 3series as a symbol of success, good taste (subjective) and a sign that they are motoring enthusiasts. Those that buy the basic BMW 3series like the 320i or the 320d are usually those that also dream of owning an M3, or even if they do not actually want a M3, want their BMW 3 series to look much faster than what it usually is. This usually means a body kit by the usual suspects

[extract] By now most of you would have known that BMW has launched the replacement for the E90 BMW 3-series. This new model, code named F30 internally and what most BMW enthusiasts will call it, is basically an evolution of the E90. All one has to do is graft on the new nose from the A-pillar onwards and keep the whole rear end and you get a F30 bmw 3-series. Critics are calling it a minor update of the 3-series and not

More new details has emerged on the upcoming 2012 BMW 3-Series, codenamed the F30. The above photo is an illustration by AutoExpress. The next-generation 3-Series has been expected to be larger, growing 2 inches in length with a wider track and longer wheelbase. The 3-Series will come closer in looks to the current 5-Series, adopting the softer features of the new design paradigm of BMW's. The new 3 series will have shorter overhangs with more cabin space, as indicated by the spy shots so far. The 3-Series will keep its existing forged-aluminum five-link rear suspension and aluminum-intensive double-joint struts at the front. Optional adaptive dampers will be available to the buyer. It may even feature the adaptive anti-roll chassis from the 5-Series. Under the bonnet, an entry-level 1.6 liter turbo (borrowed from MINI) will be tuned to around 150 PS (110 kW). More interestingly, BMW will fit a direct-injection turbocharged 2.0 liter to the 3-Series to replace some of the output levels currently furnished by the naturally aspirated 3.0 liter 6-cylinder. This is important as the current 2.0L 4 cylinder unit is totally outclassed by the excellent 2.0TFSI unit in arch-rival Audi A4. A 3.0 liter turbocharged straight-six is still likely to top the range, but dialed up a little to around the 320 PS (235 kW) mark. BMW is expected to fit its 8-speed automatic to the next 3-Series too. The new 3-Series is likely to debut at the end of 2011. The coupe, convertible and touring estate versions will arrive in the following year.