There’s a saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, but there’s also a saying “there’s always room for improvement”. With this in mind, BMW have made some cosmetic changes to the 2011 Coupé and Convertible models, as well as introducing two improved engines to the 3 Series range.
The 2011 3 Series Coupé and Convertible models can be identified by the new design features at the front, side and rear, which give the car a slightly sportier character. Changes include a longer front bumper with two silver fins that split the air intake; a new headlight design with optional LED technology for the corona rings, indicators and eyebrow; as well as a slightly wider and lower kidney grille. Both two-door models feature subtly revised side skirts and a new rear bumper with slightly higher character line to imply a lower and wider stance. The rear taillights are LED units, in-line with other new models in the BMW family, such as 5 Series and 5 Series GT. The M Sport package has also been revised slightly and two additional 19-inch alloy wheel designs are now available to choose from.
The biggest changes to the 2011 BMW 3 Series range, however, are under the bonnet. The 3 Series now takes full advantage of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology to deliver improved economy and performance, while reducing emissions.
The range topping 335i models now benefit from BMW’s TwinPower N55 engine. The 3,0-litre straight-six power unit features a single turbocharger to offer improved throttle response and economy. When combined with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox – that offers short throws via a stubby and solid feeling selector – the new engine has character and offers an involving drive.
Power output remains the same at 225 kW and 400 N.m, but the torque is now available at a lowly 1 200 r/min. This means even in 6th gear the car pulls from 50 km/h without any snatching from the drivetrain.
The 3,0-litre straight-six is also willing to rev and sounds glorious while doing so. As a result, we spent most of our time on the launch listening to the engine sing on its way to 7 000 r/min, just below the redline. Prodigious use of the throttle in 3rd and 4th gear brought a smile to our face every time, before tapping off, blipping the throttle and letting the engine saunter back down through the revs.
Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 5.5 seconds in the 335i Coupé and 5.8 in Convertible. Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h. An aspect of the engine that surprised us was the fuel economy. BMW claim an average of 9.1 l/100 km on the coupé and 9.5 l/100km on the convertible. However, despite our indulgent throttle inputs in the hills around Durban and Pietermaritzburg, the onboard computer never moved above 10.4 l/100km.
Both the new 3 Series Coupé and Convertible come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. As an option the BMW 320i Coupé, the BMW 325i Coupé and the BMW 330i Convertible are available with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 335i Coupé and 335i Convertible are available with BMW’s 7-speed DCT (dual clutch transmission).
The 335i Sedan also benefits from the new N55 engine, and an improved 2,0-litre turbo-diesel unit has made its way into the 320d models. The 320d now has 135 kW (5 kW more) and peak torque of 380 N.m (30 Nm more). Despite the increase in performance, BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 5,3 l/100 km and 140 g/km of CO2 emissions for the sedan, while the estate manages 5.4 l/100km and 142 g/km of CO2.
To draw attention to the new engines in the 3 Series sedan, BMW have launched a limited production run of 300 3 Series Dynamic Edition cars. The Dynamic Edition is only available on the 320i, 320d, and 335i sedans and comprises of the M Sport package with additional carbon fibre front splitter, side mirror caps and rear spoiler. The 18-inch M Sport wheels have been sprayed anthracite grey to match the carbon highlights on the car. Inside the Dynamic Edition features ‘Blue Shadow’ cloth and alcantara upholstery with Royal Blue stitching, as well as special floor mats with Royal Blue piping and ‘Edition’ door entry sill strips.
The latest changes to the 335i version of the BMW 3 Series Coupé, Convertible and Sedan may be subtle, but they’re certainly noticeable. Look out for a report on the 320d and it’s new powerplant in the coming months.
| Prices | |
| 320i Coupé | R391 500 |
| 325i Coupé | R444 500 |
| 335i Coupé | R618 500 |
| 330i Convertible | R610 500 |
| 335i Convertible | R718 500 |
| 320i Sedan Dynamic Edition | R354 500 |
| 320d Sedan Dynamic Edition | R394 500 |
| 335i Sedan Dynamic Edition | R526 500 |
Prices include a 5 Year/100 000 km Motorplan, non-contributing service and maintenance contract.
