When I first saw the F20 1er and F30 3er the side indicators were in the usual position of being just underneath the main "Character line".
The F20 has recently had them moved to the wing mirrors and it is apparently to do with future legislation requiring the side indicators to be in a more visible position for oncoming drivers. It's all in aid of safety.
The F30 progresses further in it's development strategy with the cars now being tested with full wiring and electrics. with the first stages concentrating on powertrains and chassis and suspension engineering.
The F30 continues the cycle that began with the E36 3er by showcasing the new 3er in a more upmarket body style which appealed to the customer leading to the E46 3er in which everybody just went crazy for.
And again for the E90.
The F30 continues this evolutionary stream but offers the same distinguishment as shown by the 5er and 7er with their own individual appearances.
Given the priority of the segment for the new 3er , BMW will follow through with it's strategy in a similar fashion to the Premium compact segment the 1er and investigate additional concepts to increase the platforms market.
so far the only 3er given the green light is the 3er Gran Turismo - A sleeker premium entry sister to the BMW 5er Gran Turismo.
Other ideas being investigated as additional concepts. Is the BMW 3er Shooting Brake which could be utilised in 4dr format - rear hinged door on the passenger side or 5dr format-
Lower than a 3er Touring and a 3er FAST - Family Activity Sports Tourer.
a combination of X, Touring and MPV. Alongside a Coupe , Cabrio and Touring.
The 3er will remain as RWD with additional xDrive compatibility.
The 3er will not be going to FWD.