SPYSHOTS: G20 BMW 3 Series – interior clearly seen

We’ve seen plenty of the upcoming G20 BMW 3 Series in previous spyshots, but this latest set gives us our most comprehensive look at the W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class rival yet. Although the exterior of the vehicle is still heavily camouflaged, our spies managed to capture a lot of the exposed interior of two different mules.

Some of the items here are pretty familiar, including the design of the multifunction steering wheel and gear lever. Even the instrument cluster is clear for all to see, although in certain photos, we see an “analogue” gauge layer placed on top of it. This could be indicative of a lower-spec variant that will be available, as other shots show digital display occupy that space.

The centre stack meanwhile, appears to follow the same layout as the new Z4, with a large screen being positioning above the similarly-shaped air-con vents. The infotainment system to be fitted should be BMW’s next-gen iDrive, which was revealed just last month along with the aforementioned digital display instrument cluster.

New switchgear for the climate control system is also seen, but there appears to be two different setups for them – one more reminiscent of what you see in the new Z4. Further downwards are the controls for the media and quick access functions, with the volume dial/power button located on the left.

We also get a good look at the centre console, where as far as we can see, the design is again, nigh identical to what is in the Z4. The entire left section is dedicated to the engine start/stop button as well as controls for choosing between drive modes and other vehicle functions (traction control, parking sensors, reverse camera and engine idling).

On the far right is the new iDrive controller, which now features more recessed quick access buttons than before. Even the rotary dial appears to be lower and features elegant detailing on its sides to provide a better grip. Sandwiched in the middle is the gear lever as well as the electronic parking brake.

Focusing on the exterior, the sighted mule appears to be fitted with the M Sport package, featuring an aggressive front bumper with horizontal LED units on the corner inlets. There’s also a dual-exhaust setup on this car and a set of snazzy wheels.

The new 3 Series will ride on BMW’s modular Cluster Architecture (CLAR), and should come with the usual array of petrol and diesel engines, with plug-in hybrid powertrains being added to the mix as well – a high-performance M3 (codename G80) will come later on.

GALLERY: Next-gen BMW Z4