BMW will be launching the updated 3-series range next month with the biggest change being the addition of more powerful engines and a reduction of fuel consumption across all models. Unfortunately, the car’s styling and equipment list remains much the same as the current version.

All models now come with direct injection technology providing most of the engines with minor power upgrades. Power is up for all the petrol engines except in the 325i and 335i, and, for the diesels, output is increased for the four-cylinder versions only. Once again, X Drive AWD will only be available with the six-cylinder diesel and petrol engines comprising the 325xi, 330xi, 335xi, 330xd.

Engineers have also added BMW’s fuel saving Efficient Dynamics technology to the 3-series range, with each car now delivering better mileage than the one it replaces despite increases in power for some models. The interior for the 2008 model is identical to current versions except for the addition of new colors for the trim. We can expect to see full details of BMW's bread-and-butter model in the very near future.