After a month of teaser images, the seventh-generation BMW 3-Series has been revealed ahead of the Paris Auto Show.

In a world where everyone wants an SUV and the traditional sedan is under threat, BMW clearly poured a great deal of its significant engineering skills and resources into making this latest version of 3-Series the most compelling yet.

The design features a more aggressive front and plainer rear, with switchblade shape headlights and larger front bumper ducts. Inside, there has been a comprehensive switch to digital instrumentation and brighter cabin details.

Via BMW

RELATED: BMW M5 COMPETITION — THE DODGE DEMON CONQUERER

For all its history, the 3-Series has always been cherished – and marketed – as a family car for the keen driver and BMW’s ensured that its latest iteration is true to that heritage. The internal codename for this new BMW is G20 and it’s built on the company’s new CLAR (Cluster Architecture) vehicle architecture.

Unlike some larger BMWs, the new 3-Series does not include any carbon-fiber bits in its fundamental structure. Despite this, it still manages to be about 110 pounds per derivative lighter than the range it replaces. Although technical details will only be verified in Paris this week, sources indicate that 3-Series has grown by 60mm in length, which should gift passengers a bit more room.

Via BMW

Regarding engines, BMW is believed to not be abandoning diesel power for its compact sedan, yet there has been a substantial investment in electrification, too – with a new 330e plug-in hybrid model.

BMW’s inline six-cylinder engines have always been an anchor feature of 3-Series and the range will purportedly feature a focus on performance derivatives. As part of a realignment of BMW’s strategy, the importance of sub-M3/4 performance derivatives have become a priority, and as such, there should be a 365hp M340i M Performance sedan.

For decades, the 3-Series has been a benchmark for ride quality and handling agility. To ensure the latest 3-Series continues this reputation, BMW’s engineers have been meticulous about recalibrating the adjustable damper rates and added hydraulic bump stops.

NEXT: MULTIPLE BMW M3 GENERATIONS FACE OFF IN RACE