现行版宝马3系正在面临新一代奥迪A4和奔驰C级车越来越激烈的竞争，但宝马已经在开发新一代3系，新车将于2018年上市。下一代3系将采用更具运动风格设计，包括锐利的折线和硬朗的边框。最近谍照记者拍到了正在测试的下一代3系原型车，不过该车仍处于研发的早期阶段，在未来两年还会有很大变化。车辆内装仍很神秘，但有报道称，宝马将注重提升内装工艺，特性和质量。如果真是这样，预计将采用更高质量内饰材料并额外增加更多配置。下一代车型还将提供更好地毯，提升密封性以降低车厢内噪音。目前还不清楚该车规格，新车很可能采用由铝制材料，碳纤维和高强度钢材组成结构的新的平台。这将使新车重量进一步降低，但车重降幅不会达到新一代5系和7系车水平。至于动力系统，很可能包括一系列四缸和六缸汽油/柴油引擎。另外预计还将增加更节能环保版本，包括插电混动车，甚至可能增加燃料电池车型。

 

2018 BMW 3 Series prototype spied

The BMW 3 Series is facing stiff competition from the redesigned Audi A4 and Mercedes C Class but it appears work has already begun on the next-generation model.

 

Set to arrive in 2018, the next 3 Series is expected to adopt a sportier design with sharper creases and harder edges. Those can't be seen on this particular prototype but the model is still in the early stages of development and a lot can change in the next two years.

 

The interior remains more of a mystery but reports have suggested the company will focus on improving the model's craftsmanship, character, and quality. If the rumors pan out, BMW will add higher quality materials and additional equipment. The next-generation model is also slated to better carpets and improved seals to reduce the amount of noise that penetrates the cabin.

 

Specifications remain elusive but the model will ride on a new platform that is constructed from aluminum, carbon fiber, and high-strength steel. This should enable the car to be lighter than its predecessor but the weight saving likely won't be as dramatic as those seen on the 5 and 7 Series.

 

Engine options remain unconfirmed but will likely include an assortment of four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel options. We can also expect to see some eco-friendly variants including a plug-in hybrid and possibly even a model with a fuel-cell powertrain.