The eighth generation of the BMW 3 Series has officially been unveiled and is due to land in the UK in early 2027, with production starting in November. Two fully electric models will be available from launch, joined by two 3 Series variants with efficient petrol engines and 48V mild hybrid technology.
With the 3 Series being BMW’s core sports saloon, the car has always set a high standard for the rest of its class, and naturally it was bound to bring a rip-roaring combustion engine to the eighth-generation lineup.
The entry-level 320 variant will use a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, producing 208bhp and driving the rear wheels – climbing from 0-62 in just 7.4 seconds.
At the top of the engine line-up, however, is the new M350 xDrive – with a turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six engine, making 437bhp and 428lb ft of torque, a considerable increase on its predecessor. The M350 is also claimed to reach 0-62 in an unbelievable 4.1 seconds.
The i3 and 3 Series share the same Neue Klasse design language, with an almost identical front end, shape and stance, bar a slightly longer bonnet. It seems for BMW, their electric and petrol models will stand side by side the same way petrol and diesel models have in the past.
The 3 Series maintains that instantly recognisable BMW silhouette, with short overhangs, eye-catching surfaces and flared wheel arches. The kidney grille is merged with the twin headlights to create a familiar, yet striking single-unit light signature, mirrored by a horizontal light arrangement at the rear of the car.
The interior of the 3 Series is built around the driver, placing information and interaction at their most natural and ergonomic positions. The driver is provided with a 17.9-inch central display angled clearly towards them, BMW’s Panoramic Vision and an optional 3D Head-Up display, placing relevant content into the driver’s line of sight.
The standard seats on the 3 Series models feature electric adjustment, memory function and lateral support. However, further seating options are available, as well as the option to upgrade to a Harman Kardon sound system, and the choice between four different interior designs.
The 3 Series models will be offered with an array of standard-fit and optional assistance systems, built to provide even greater safety and reduce strain on the driver.
In terms of trim, there will be the standard 3 Series and i3, an M Sport and M Sport Pro, and the M350 will be its own dedicated model.
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