Six Generation of BMW

1.

E21 BMW 3 Series (1975-83)The first 3 Series, it came at a time when the world was struggling through an oil crisis. Powered by either a 1.6, 1.8 or a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, the 323i straight-six making its debut in 1977. Carbuereted at first followed by fuel injection later, the E21 had its dash angled towards the driver, a tradition followed to this day!

2.

E30 BMW 3 Series (1982-91)The second generation is also regarded by enthusiasts as one of the finest. Sold in four body forms, including coupe, cabriolet and touring, the E30 was also the first car to come with the M3 badge. A host of inline-fours and straight-sixes, the 3 Series also came with all-wheel drive and a diesel option.

3.

E36 BMW 3 Series (1991-99)Widely regarded as the 'American' 3 Series, the E36 is also one of the least loved. But it took the 3 Series to greater heights as sales increased in major markets. Like the E30, it came with four body styles. Vanos variable valve timing made its debut with the 3 Series. A new 3.2-litre straight six producing 286 bhp and 321 bhp respectively made the M3 a very quick car.

4.

E46 BMW 3 Series (1998-2006)The E46 is a favourite of many of us at BSM for its looks and appeal. But the E46 was more than just that. Four body styles here too, the E46 was also offered as a compact like the E36, but was replaced by the 1 Series during its lifetime. It's also the best-selling 3 Series of all time. The E46 M3 featured the same 3.2 from the E36, but with 343 bhp and 360 bhp for the lightweight CSL.

5.

E90 BMW 3 Series (2004-12)The fifth generation 3 Series went through more electronics and run-flat tyres for the first time. It got a whole host of engine options, including twin-turbocharged straight-six petrol and diesel motors that led competition on to the same path. Later EfficientDynamics tech made the cars even more frugal. The M3 came with a V8 for the first time.

6.

F30 BMW 3 Series (2011-)The current 3 Series is lighter, sharper and more spacious than before but with no change to its driver-centric focus. Currently offered as a saloon and touring, the F30 is probably the easiest 3 Series ever to drive and comes with a diesel and turbocharged four-cylinder petrol that replaces the naturally aspirated straight-six. More versions, including a twin-turbo, straight-six M3 will follow.

CHEVROLET TRAX

Chevrolet Trax SUV is all set to make its debut at the upcoming Paris motor show in September. The all-new Trax will be a rival for supermini-sized SUVs such as the Ford Ecosport, Nissan Juke and Skoda Yeti in the international markets.

The Trax will be 4,248 mm long, a width of 1,776 mm and a wheelbase of 2,555 mm. The Trax is launched in India will not qualify for the under 4 meter segment unless Chevy tinkers with its dimensions which seems unlikely.

The Trax will boast plenty of storage places, including various bins above and on both sides of the center stack, as well as an available under pass seat tray. In addition, the Trax will feature a secondary stowage are under the cargo area, which has a total capacity of 358 litres. The SUV will also be available with Chevrolet MyLink connectivity which delivers practical in-car entertainment.

The European market model will be offered with a choice of three engines including a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 138hp (140PS) 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol burner mated to a 6-speed manual, and a 1.7-litre turbocharged diesel delivering 129hp (130PS) and 300Nm.

The Trax will be offered with a six-speed automatic transmission and the option of all-wheel drive.

India launch seems most likely in 2014 and Chevrolet will have to work on the localisation plan well in advance to keep costs low. In India the power trains could be 1.4 litre petrol and the 1.3 litre diesel which will be available on the Sail twins.