German carmaker BMW AG has unveiled its longer, lighter version of its core 3-Series midsize car.

The new version is more fuel efficient and in terms of design it is 93 millimeters, or 3 1/2 inches, longer, and about 40 kilograms lighter.

It's the sixth edition of a vehicle that first went on sale in 1975 and has sold 12 million copies.

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This time round BMW offers more style, quality, comfort and specification all for only a minimal price increase.

BMW's design team, headed by Adrian von Hooydonk, presents more high-set elements than the current car.

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A wider choice of trim levels and an extensive personalisation programme will allow 3 Series saloon buyers to order virtually a tailored car.

Width is down by 4mm at 1811mm but height is up by 9mm at 1429mm.

The wide track, a long time 3-series design touch, has also been enhanced, with the front gaining an added 37mm at 1543mm and the rear up by 47mm at 1583mm.

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At the time of launch, four engines will be available which will be followed with more options.

All turbocharged, they include a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine developing 245bhp in the 328i.

Both manual and automatic versions have fuel economy of more than 44mpg and CO2 emissions below 150g/km.

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Along with being larger, the body is stiffer and has a longer wheel base.

Its independent suspension is by aluminium struts, wishbones and swivel joints at the front and an improved and refined version of the proven five-link arrangement from the previous 3-series at the rear.

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In BMW tradition, the new car is rear-wheel drive, although four-wheel drive and even a petrol/electric hybrid will be released towards the end of next year.

The new car has EfficientDynamics energy-saving measures including Stop-Start, Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand control of engine ancillary components and tyres with less rolling resistance on all models.

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Further, in addition to BMW's standard trim line-up (ES, SE, Sport, M Sport) comes 'Modern' and 'Luxury', and standard spec across all cars.

This includes air conditioner, Bluetooth, a 6.5in colour screen with iDrive, keyless starting, USB, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and automatic boot opening.

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The new 3-series will compete with Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class and Volvo S60.

It will be officially launched at the Detroit motor show in January 2012, and will go on sale in February 2012. It is pried in the rage of $48,808 to $60,199.

In India it is expected to go on sale by mid-2012, and it maybe priced in the range of Rs 22-35 lakh.