msm
Well-known member
Warning: This is a rather arb thread ...
Just pondering on what the range topping variant of the F30 will be, based on historic 3 series info (ignoring the ///M line-up).
Whenever a new 3 series is launched, the top of the range is usually based loosely on the previous generation and then a new top of the range model is introduced. Sometimes the new model does not correspond to the facelift/LCI timing too (as in the case of the E46 and E90). I've ignored some special edition cars (like the 333i, etc as they were not normal production models everywhere.) Also I've put the local/international line-up together here, as there is usually little wisdom from BMW SA when deciding what to bring in locally. Let me illustrate what I'm on about (My facts may not be totally accurate on the list below - please bear with me).
Here is the range topper at intro, and then later as the model progresses.
E30 was introduced with a 323i, then replaced by the 325i.
E36 was introduced with a 325i, then replaced by the 328i.
E46 was introduced with a 328i, then replaced by the 330i
E90 was introduced with a 330i/d, then replaced by the 335i/d.
So, here is my speculation. The current 335i (and 335d) will only carry the reigns for about 2/3 years and, then based on history, it has to be a new 340i/340d that will be launched.
So my theory is that BMW will retain a base 6 cylinder model (both petrol and diesel) but use more than 1 turbo to bump it up and we WILL see at 340i, 340d at least. Wonder if they will be agressive enough to push a 345/350 badge, with some crazy engine configs and power gains (as in the case of the recent 550d).
Let's speculate on this range topping F30 - history tells us that it can't be the current 335i ...
Just pondering on what the range topping variant of the F30 will be, based on historic 3 series info (ignoring the ///M line-up).
Whenever a new 3 series is launched, the top of the range is usually based loosely on the previous generation and then a new top of the range model is introduced. Sometimes the new model does not correspond to the facelift/LCI timing too (as in the case of the E46 and E90). I've ignored some special edition cars (like the 333i, etc as they were not normal production models everywhere.) Also I've put the local/international line-up together here, as there is usually little wisdom from BMW SA when deciding what to bring in locally. Let me illustrate what I'm on about (My facts may not be totally accurate on the list below - please bear with me).
Here is the range topper at intro, and then later as the model progresses.
E30 was introduced with a 323i, then replaced by the 325i.
E36 was introduced with a 325i, then replaced by the 328i.
E46 was introduced with a 328i, then replaced by the 330i
E90 was introduced with a 330i/d, then replaced by the 335i/d.
So, here is my speculation. The current 335i (and 335d) will only carry the reigns for about 2/3 years and, then based on history, it has to be a new 340i/340d that will be launched.
So my theory is that BMW will retain a base 6 cylinder model (both petrol and diesel) but use more than 1 turbo to bump it up and we WILL see at 340i, 340d at least. Wonder if they will be agressive enough to push a 345/350 badge, with some crazy engine configs and power gains (as in the case of the recent 550d).
Let's speculate on this range topping F30 - history tells us that it can't be the current 335i ...
