Key highlights
- New BMW 3 Series gets Neue Klasse-inspired design and a completely revamped cabin
- Electric i3 50 xDrive claims up to 912 km WLTP range and supports 400 kW DC charging
- M350 xDrive gets a 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid powertrain with 437 hp
BMW has unveiled the new-generation 3 Series, bringing the brand’s latest Neue Klasse design language to one of its most important sedans. The new range will offer petrol, fully electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, giving buyers more choices than before.
Powetrains
The electric version is now called the BMW i3, with the range initially comprising the i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive. Both use BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, an 800V electrical architecture and dual motors with all-wheel drive.
The i3 50 xDrive is the headline act for range. BMW claims a WLTP range of up to 912 km, while its 400 kW DC charging capability can add up to 423 km of WLTP range in 10 minutes under specified high-power charging conditions. A more powerful i3 M60 xDrive is also planned for 2027.
The combustion-engine range continues with four-cylinder petrol versions, while the new M350 xDrive sits at the top of the performance lineup. It uses a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, producing around 437 hp and 580Nm. BMW claims a 0-100kmph time of 4.1 seconds and a 250 kmph electronically limited top speed.
The M350 also gets adaptive M suspension and a new Drift Moment function that can direct power exclusively to the rear wheels.
Features
Inside, the 3 Series gets BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive setup, combining Panoramic Vision with a 17.9-inch central display and a multifunction steering wheel. An optional 3D head-up display and BMW Operating System X are also available.
The new sedan will also offer Level 2 driver assistance, including Motorway Assistant with hands-free driving capability up to 130km/h in designated markets.
A plug-in hybrid version is scheduled to join the range in 2027. The electric i3 will be built in Munich, while combustion-engine versions will be produced in Dingolfing. BMW has not yet announced India-specific launch details, prices or variants.
For BMW, the interesting part will be how this wider portfolio translates to individual markets, including India.
Also read: Hyundai HE1i compact electric SUV spotted testing at fast charger
