We bring you the first ever look at the F33 3 Series convertible (or 4 Series as it may be called when released) in testing with its hardtop roof retracted. The F33 largely shares the same proportions with the current E93 3 series convertible, although like the rest of the new F3x 3 series generation of cars, it will have slightly shorter overhangs, a longer wheelbase, and a bit more rear legroom.

These photos also represent the first clear look at the interior of the F33 convertible, which, from what can be seen, looks largely the same as the F30 3 series sedan. But, the rear view mirror is different, as is the new iDrive knob and controller system.

We also notice something curious about the front seats, … CONTINUED

Here’s a look at Challenge’s F30 335i lowered with H&R Super Sport springs and BBS CH wheels wrapped in Bridgestone RE-11 tires. The car also features black painted kidney grilles and Sport Line whiskers, as well as painted relectors.

BMW today announced new BMW M Performance Parts specially designed for the new 2012 BWW 3 Series Sedan and 2011-2012 5 Series Sedan. Like the BMW M Performance Parts already available for the high-performance M3, 1 Series M Coupe, X5 M and X6 M, the components developed for 3 Series and 5 Series models ensure an authentic transfer of BMW M-specific motor racing technology to everyday driving.

This new line of accessories provides a distinctive, sporty character to further enhance driving dynamics. BMW M Performance Parts are the result of years of racing expertise and have been developed in close collaboration with BMW M GmbH. Each component goes through an intensive development and manufacturing process which results in uncompromised performance. Exclusive chassis, aerodynamic, cockpit and powertrain components … CONTINUED

Here are photos from the latest F31 3 series touring sighting. Are we possibly looking at the first indication of a 328i xDrive with manual transmission? When we previously interviewed BMW on which F30/F31 xDrive models would receive a manual transmission, all we were told was that there would be at least one xDrive model with manual transmission. So, *if* this particular F31 is a 328i xDrive model (the front suspension appears to sit a bit higher?), then it would appear that the 328i may be one of the xDrive models to receive a manual transmission option.

Auto Start-Stop Fix:

BMW has released software to fix any of the early 335i F30 that had a problem where the engine sometimes stalled after the Auto Stop/Start system tried to restart. Problem was a calibration error. BMW cites an unfavorable DME software application as the source of the issue. It affects cars produced from 11/2/2011 to 2/29/2012.

USA members, refer your dealer to “SIB 12 06 12″ (Service bulletin 10 12 00 09 00)

Headrest Fix:

For those with F30 where you cannot get the headrest back to its lowest position after raising them , BMW USA have released a fix. Your dealer will install a fix kit to rectify the problem

Refer your USA dealer to “SIB 52 03 12″

Cars built from March 2012 on should not have … CONTINUED

Here’s a new feature video highlighting the BMW M Performance Parts equipped Afrox-ADF Motorsport F30 335i series race car.

The BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase Sedan has just premiered at the 2012 Auto China show in Beijing. The 3 Series Li has been announced in three models - 320Li, 328Li, and the 335Li.

The Li model adds 11 centimeters (4.3 inches) to its wheelbase over the standard F30 3 series sedan, resulting in a more spacious passenger cabin (particularly the rear). Both the BMW 3 Series Sedan in the long wheelbase version and the new BMW 3 Series Sedan will be available in China before the end of the year.

These models will be for the Chinese market only and will be produced at BMW’s new Shenyang production plant.

The following is the transcript from the 3 Series Li introduction at the BMW Press Conference during the 2012 … CONTINUED

Road and Track undertakes a head to head comparison of the 2012 328i (F30) versus the Mercedes C250 Sport. What do they find?

The F30 is on the varsity team when it comes to performance. The 2.0L N20 engine pulls strongly without breaking a sweat, the shifts from the 8 speed automatic transmission are nearly telekinetic, and the chassis is great. The steering is lauded for having the right amount of resistence, offering great feel for what’s happening with the tires.

Overall, the BMW’s dynamic prowess and effortless performance won Road and Track over. View the video review inside.

Here is some footage of Alpina’s B3 GT3 limited edition (of 99), which is based on the Alpina B3 S Bi-Turbo, but with 8 more HP. Re-designing sections of the exhaust system and installing a new enhanced Akrapovic rear silencer increased output in the B3 GT3 by this 8 HP. The direct petrol injected N54 engine delivers a total power output of 408hp at 6000rpm and 540Nm of torque at 4500rpm.

The Alpina B3 GT3 sprints from 0-62mph (0-100kmh) 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 192mph (309kmh), which the driver, Sport Auto’s test drive editor Christian Gebhardt, hits in this video.

See also inside for our coverage of the B3 GT3 from the 2012 Geneva auto show.