BMW 3-series refresh confirmed for Paris debut

The 2009 BMW 3-series will be revealed in all its facelifted glory at the Paris Motor Show and sales will begin across North America this October. The only discernible differences up front are a new fascia that apes the recently unveiled 7-series, new headlamps with "altered graphics," a contoured hood and modified mirror housings. Out back, the subtle changes continue, with a new taillight design that integrates more cleanly into the trunk lid and a reworked bumper that will join a one-inch wider track on high end version of the 3-series.

Inside, you'll find a revised armrest on the driver's side door, an updated iDrive controller and software, a high-resolution 8.8-inch screen, with options for an 80-gig hard drive that can store MP3s and the sat nav software.

The 335i's (claimed) 300 hp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo six will remain, as will the 328i's 230 hp, 3.0-liter inline-six. The new addition to the family is the 335d, which is packing a 265 hp, twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight-six diesel, equipped with urea injection to keep the U.S.'s SMOG sniffers happy. However, if you were hoping for a 335d coupe, you're out of luck – the oil burner is only available in the sedan and fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission. Otherwise, the tranny choices will include the six-speed manual or six-speed auto 'box. However, Autoweek makes no mention of the DCT gearbox. Too bad.

Expect all the details to be revealed shortly.