The interplay of surfaces and lines fills the interior with life
The interior of the new BMW 3-Series Sedan is straight out of the BMW design handbook. The driver-focused cockpit wraps around the driver and puts all the important controls within easy reach. The cockpit is angled towards the driver by seven degrees. The surfaces and lines flow over the instrument panel towards the front passenger side of the cabin, where they form a smooth, protective border. In the driver's area all the lines converge on a single point behind the steering wheel and guide the eye towards the road.
The cockpit's four circular dials (fuel gauge, speedometer, rev counter and oil temperature gauge) come with a black panel display. Positioned on the horizontally-structured instrument panel, the freestanding standard-fitted iDrive monitor with high-resolution display recalls the latest flatscreen televisions normally found in living rooms rather than cars. The monitor has no folding mechanism or binnacle, allowing the entire dashboard to retain its flat, smooth lines and giving the interior a lighter, more dynamic feel.
On the driver's side of the deliberately asymmetric centre tunnel, a different trim surface and graining mark out the active driving elements of the interior, while the trim surface on the front passenger side exudes a pleasingly elegant air. Positioned centrally on the centre console within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger is the standard iDrive Controller. Underneath the armrest - with optional fore/aft adjustment - between the front seats, meanwhile, is a compartment for mobile devices (e.g. mobile phones, MP3 players and smartphones), which also contains a USB/AUX-IN socket.
See also:
System limits
Personal responsibility
The system cannot serve as a substitute
for the driver's personal judgment of the course
of the road and the traffic situation.
In the event of a warning, do not jerk th ...
Gear shift indicator
The concept
The system recommends the most fuel efficient
gear in the current driving situation.
Displays
Indicators to shift up or down are displayed in
the instrument cluster.
...
Front
Opening
Press on the cover.
Emptying
Place your finger in the depression next to the
ashtray, arrow, and push up at the same time.
The ashtray can be removed.
Lighter
Push in the lighter. ...