New BMW 3 Series, Same Satisfied Owners

BALTIMORE, MD. (08/17/2012)(readMedia)-- While BMW's 3 Series has long been the luxury automaker's best-selling car in the United States, the redesigned 2012 model is proving that it has what it takes to satisfy today's increasingly discerning buyers. The 2012 BMW 3 Series recently topped the Entry Premium Car segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, which asks drivers how gratifying it is to own their new car, truck or SUV.

This year's J.D. Power APEAL Study surveyed more than 74,000 purchasers and lessees of 2012-model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership, covering more than 80 automotive attributes. After responses were evaluated, the 2012 BMW 3 Series rated ''among the best'' in the Overall Performance and Design, Features and Instrument Panel, and Style categories to surpass its competitors. In its Entry Premium Car segment, the 3 Series' closest challenger was its smaller sibling, the 2012 BMW 1 Series, while the 2012 Audi A4 and A5 came in third.

''The BMW 3 Series has always been a customer favorite, and the APEAL Study shows that the newest generation is popular not only on the lot, but also after buyers have owned it for a few months,'' said Melanie Sterry, general manager of Russel BMW, a BMW dealership in Baltimore, Md. ''With more power and better fuel efficiency, the new 3 Series sedan features significant improvements in substance, all while receiving new styling that is sleeker and more sophisticated than ever.''

For the 2012 redesign, the 3.0-liter inline-six engine in the base BMW 328i sedan was replaced with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 10 more horsepower, increasing output to 240 horsepower. When that smaller powerplant combines with a new, optional eight-speed automatic transmission and Auto Stop-Start technology, the next-generation BMW 328i returns 33 mpg on the highway, while standard six-speed manual models return 34 mpg. Fuel efficiency is also aided by a lighter overall weight, as the 2012 BMW 328i sedan shed nearly 90 pounds compared to its predecessor.

While the BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon went unchanged for the 2012 model year, 2013 will bring updates in line with the sedan's changes. Available next spring, the 2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon will be slightly longer and wider than past models, increasing legroom in the rear seats as well as cargo capacity. The new engine and eight-speed automatic from the 328i sedan will also make their way into the Sports Wagon, and BMW estimates that the vehicle will sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, just a tenth of a second behind than the sedan. EPA fuel-economy estimates have not been released yet, but they are not expected to vary much from the ratings of the current BMW 328i sedan.

Like the new BMW 3 Series sedan, the exterior of the 2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon will receive a more aggressive front fascia and widened kidney grille. Meanwhile, a new Smart Opener option will let Sports Wagon owners open the tailgate hands-free by swiping a foot beneath the rear bumper, allowing for convenient loading and unloading.

''The BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon offers buyers the comfort, convenience and versatility of a crossover, but with the responsiveness and handling of a luxury sports sedan,'' added Sterry. ''Drivers of the 2013 model will forget that they are in a wagon when they are behind the wheel, but they'll be happy to have the extra space when it comes time to load up for a family trip.''

About Russel BMW:

A trusted Baltimore Country BMW dealership, Russel BMW has served Maryland driving enthusiasts for years with a high level of sales and service that matches the BMW name. The dealership's diverse inventory of new and used BMWs ensures an easier vehicle search for customers, and their parts and service department are renowned for their expertise and professionalism. Visit Russel BMW online at www.russelbmw.com, call them at 410-744-2000 or stop by their dealership in person at 6700 Baltimore National Pike in Baltimore. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandBMW.