BMW premieres the updated F30 3 Series

After 3 years in the market, the current 3 Series, Also known as the F30, gets refreshed for 2015. The facelift marks the LCI, (Life Cycle Impulse) model of the current chassis. The F30 LCI gets subtle tweaks to the front airdams, as well as optional full LED headlights. The tailights now get full LED's as well.

Inside, there are new aircon vent surrounds and a new (optional) full color head-up display. The updated 3 Series benefits from a revised navigation system and an LTE connectivity system which BMW claims is the first in its class.

For the first time in 3 series history, it will be available with a 3-cylinder motor. The 318i now replaces the 316i and will come with the 1.5 liter, three cylinder with an output of 136 PS and 220 Nm. The popular 320d gets more horsepower for the LCI model. It now produces 190 PS, six more from the current model.

Another first in the 3 Series line is a plug-in hybrid. Called the 330e, it puts out 252 PS and 420 Nm of torque. BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 47.6 km/l and can run on full electric power for 35 kilometers. 

Replacing the 328i is the 330i. Like the 328i, it gets a turbocharged 2.0 liter, four cylinder engine but now gets more power. The 330i puts out 252 PS but torque remains at 350 Nm. Another change in the lineup is the replacement of the 335i to the 340i. The 340i comes with an all new six cylinder engine called the B58 and punches out 326 PS and 450 Nm of torque. For comparison basis, the 335i had 302 PS and 400 Nm of torque.

The 3 Series LCI will begin its sales in Europe by the second half of the year.