Maintaining the Benchmark

Among BMW fans, the 3-Series garners cult-like devotion. Sure the M cars are sensational and special one-offs such as the Z8 otherworldly by even dream standards, but the 3, for decades a staple among BMW loyalists and dealers alike, is the most important car in the lineup.

For such reasons both dealers and potential buyers have been on pins and needles with anticipation over the new model. Normally the concern would not be so great, but since Chris Bangle took over top job at BMW styling, now moved up to make way for Adrian von Hooydonk, the designer of the lovely new 6-Series and also creative mind that dreamt up the controversial yet bestselling 7, normally credited to Bangle, most everyone has been hoping for a more conservative approach to the new 3.

As a six-times BMW owner I think I can speak for everyone by first letting out a gasp of relief, and then unequivocally stating the new 3-Series is one of

For decades the 3-Series has been a staple among BMW loyalists and dealers alike. (Photo: BMW of North America)

The 3, on the other hand, retains BMWs "flaming surface" design language without appearing overly complicated, a la 9th grade French teachers horn rimmed reading glasses in place of headlight clusters on the 5-Series, or at least thats the way one auto journalist I know described them. The new 3s headlamps are wonderfully flowing, tilting upwards in a similar fashion to the new X3 sport utility, but in a much

The new 3-Series is one of the prettiest designs to come out of Munich in years. (Photo: BMW of North America)

From side profile

From the side profile view, the new 3s design is striking, yet retains classic BMW styling cues like the Hofmeister kink. (Photo: BMW of North America)

I think that the 3s rear quarters are where Bangle, von Hooydonk and company have executed their best work on this model. Particularly, I love the way the side waistline meets the top edge of each taillight, which follow the line downwards to meet up with each side of the license plate inset. This is the type

Im elated at BMWs new 3-Series design, as the current model was beginning to bore me. (Photo: BMW of North America)

If you havent figured it out yet, Im elated at BMWs new 3-Series design. As attractive as the current model was when it came out, its beginning to bore me to be honest. The design team has tweaked the headlamps and modified the side marker

While there is little doubt that the new 3 will be a thrill to drive, will it be good enough to fend off newcomers like the Lexus IS 300 and Infiniti GX35? (Photo: BMW of North America)

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