Previews of next year’s models from the “Bavarian Motor Works” show that the car maker is adding a five door hatchback to its 2012 BMW 3 Series line. BMW enthusiasts have described this as a cross between a sporty sedan and a station wagon – with the distinctly clunky back end of a hatchback, this car will have a very specific audience. Not all buyers are fans of this design, a compromise of utility and style, but some who want the functionality of a hatchback without the bulk of an SUV or crossover might be looking at this new offer. Car and Driver magazine calls the style an effort to “cross-pollinate” an SUV and a station wagon, pointing out that makers have already adopted this kind of design in the 5-series BMW.

Besides the new hatchback design and a slew of high-tech safety options, those who’ve seen the plans are saying that BMW will also offer engine options for the 2012 3 series including a hybrid car and a turbo 4-cylinder engine that will pack a punch. According to C&D, there might be close to 300 hp built into the 2-liter block. This gives customers an impressive array of choices for power and fuel efficiency.

Aside from these established changes to the BMW 3 series lineup, additional rumors from Edmunds and other sources suggest a possible adjustable suspension and other mods for these cars, as well as more brand new technology that will micro-manage drivers, for example, detecting obstacles in parking lots and helping to keep the car in its lane in traffic. It’s debatable how many drivers who are used to doing their own steering will go for these advanced features, but customers who like the marriage of function and style might give the 2012 BMW 3 a close look.

For those who want a smaller, leaner type of BMW, next year’s MINI line will continue to offer the Brit-style and parallel parking advantages of a model that has become very popular on the American roadway, not to mention squatting in driveways and parking lot spaces. In general, it seems the German auto maker is hoping for big points on originality, where a class of younger buyers looks for trendy cars that stand out in the crowd. Look for these new 2012 options from BMW to hit dealerships near you.