BMW has confirmed that the latest G20 3 Series will celebrate its world premiere at the upcoming Paris Motor Show, which kicks off in early October. The debut of the sedan and core member of the BMW line-up comes after numerous spyshots and rumours, with preliminary details only recently revealed.

The same teaser image is still being used for the announcement, revealing a few design cues like the rather prominent double kidney grille that is linked to the headlamps. The front light units themselves feature LED daytime running lights laid out in a L-shaped pattern, with the rear taillights appearing to share the same look.

Like its stablemates, the new 3er will ride on BMW’s modular Cluster Architecture (CLAR), resulting in larger dimensions compared to the F30. BMW says the new car will be longer, wider and come with a more significant wheelbase, but will come with a lower weight (by up to 55 kg). This is due to the use of the CLAR, which also bumps torsional rigidity up by some degree.

Bolted to the chassis is a new version of the brand’s variable sport steering and twin-rated passive shock absorbers for the M Sport suspension – a better ride and improved handling are some of the results being touted.

Under the bonnet, we’ve only heard word of 2.0 litre turbo-four petrol in the 330i that produces 260 hp (up from 252 hp) and 400 Nm of torque (from 350 Nm). The teaser image suggests we could be introduced to the M Performance version, the M340i, first but we’ll need to wait for the day to find out what’s what. Should it be the M340i, expect an improved version of the B58 3.0 litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine.

Available as an option on more powerful variants will be a limited-slip differential, effectively a pared-down version of the e-diff found on the M3, which utilises clutches to direct torque between the inner and outer rear wheels. An eight-speed automatic will be the preferred choice for most, with lower-end models likely receiving a manual transmission instead.

A mix of petrol and diesel engines will likely be offered, with plug-in hybrid and even an all-electric version rumoured to be in the works. The new 3 Series will continue its eternal battle against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

GALLERY: G20 BMW 3 Series development car








GALLERY: G20 BMW 3 Series production teaser




GALLERY: Previous set of G20 BMW 3 Series spyshots with interior