What are the changes in the 2023 BMW 3 Series?
The 2023 BMW 3 Series LCI brings updated technology and exterior looks, along with some additional standard features. In case you're thinking of making the upgrade, here are all the changes in the facelifted version of BMW's popular sports sedan.
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The G20 3 Series is an impressive offering in the BMW line-up.
It's stylish, well featured and offers a great driving experience, but now there's an updated model available by way of the 2023 BMW 3 Series LCI.
When sitting side by side, both cars are recognisably a BMW 3 Series, but the new model features some subtle cosmetic changes, along with upgrades to the technology.
Here are the revisions you can expect in the LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) update.
BMW 3 Series LCI design updates
The exterior features some understated tweaks to the front and rear of the car.
At the front, you'll notice sharper LED headlights on all models with a more aggressive front fascia and larger air dam on the M-Sport equipped cars.
There are also new wheels and colours available. The colour you see here is Brooklyn Grey in a metallic finish. Note that Sunset Orange and Mineral Grey are no longer available.
The rear has undergone a slight redesign to the bumper, while the trapezoidal exhaust, rear lights and spoiler remain the same.
In the cabin, the transmission lever for the eight-speed automatic has been replaced by a smaller one. The dashboard layout presents itself in a cleaner manner as the dedicated climate-control panel has now been integrated into the software.
BMW 3 Series LCI tech updates
The biggest change in the updated 3 Series is the upgraded infotainment system. A single curved section of glass houses larger displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment.
For the driver, the 10.25-inch LCD screen has grown to 12.3 inches, while the infotainment is now up from the same 10.25 inches to a massive 14.9 inches.
What's even more noticeable is the change in software to BMW 0S8, which is the same as what you'll find in the all-electric iX and the latest hybrid XM.
While the previous version's infotainment system was feature-packed, it had a very understated theme, lacking colour and pop. Step into the new car and the rich graphics, large icons and expansive canvas of this enormous display add extra flair that you didn't know was missing.
Access to temperature controls is easy with both driver and passenger displays always positioned at the bottom of the screen, with additional controls such as seat heating available within the climate menu.
The home screen can be customised, allowing the widgets to be arranged to suit your needs. All features can be accessed in various different ways including via the touchscreen, the BMW iDrive rotary controller, steering wheel controls, gesture control or voice commands.
The instrument cluster in the new model is awash with colour and more modern than the G20 model. The functionality of the BMW live cockpit is similar to what you're used to, but now you have the flexibility of changing the display layout.
The latest example is the same 3 Series you know and love – boasting the celebrated engine, sophisticated design and great standard features. And now, it's also packed with the latest and greatest technology to boot.
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