BMW Unveils Neue Klasse 3 Series: Gas, Electric, and M Performance Variants
BMW has launched its eighth-generation 3 Series, featuring a shared 'Neue Klasse' design for both electric and combustion models. The range includes the all-electric i3 40 and 50 xDrive, the entry-level 320 with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the M350 xDrive with a 3.0-liter inline-six. The M350 introduces a 'Drift Moment' mode for rear-wheel-drive dynamics. Prices start at £44,975 for the 320 and £47,925 for the i3 40 in the UK, with US pricing starting at $61,500 for the i3 50.
Key points
- The new 3 Series lineup includes the electric i3 40 and 50 xDrive, the petrol 320, and the M350 xDrive, all sharing the Neue Klasse design language.
- The M350 xDrive features a 3.0-liter inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid tech, producing 437 hp and 428 lb-ft, with a 0-62 mph time of 4.1 seconds.
- The i3 50 xDrive offers up to 566 miles of range and 400 kW DC charging, while the i3 40 xDrive provides 441 miles of range.
- The M350 xDrive includes a 'Drift Moment' feature that sends power exclusively to the rear wheels for controlled oversteer.
- Production of the electric i3 is at BMW Plant Munich, while combustion models are built at BMW Plant Dingolfing.
Background
BMW has been previewing the Neue Klasse design language and M350 xDrive specifications since early 2026, with earlier reports confirming the 48V mild-hybrid tech and Drift Moment feature. The new 3 Series is the eighth generation of the model, which has sold over 18 million units since its 1975 launch.
How outlets are covering it
Top Gear emphasizes the shared design between the electric and petrol models, noting the '2.5-box' shape and the inclusion of 48V mild-hybrid tech in the petrol variants. The Verge focuses on the electric i3's range and charging capabilities, highlighting the 468-566 mile range and 400 kW DC charging. BMW Group provides detailed technical specifications, including the 'Heart of Joy' control system for the i3 and the 'Drift Moment' feature for the M350 xDrive. Car and Driver provides exterior photos but lacks detailed specifications in the provided text.
Why it matters
The new 3 Series is BMW's best-selling model, and its reception will determine the brand's future direction. The shared design language and diverse powertrain options (electric, petrol, mild-hybrid) reflect BMW's strategy to cater to a wide range of consumer preferences while maintaining brand identity.
What to watch
BMW plans to launch the i3 M60 xDrive in 2027 and will add a plug-in hybrid variant to the 3 Series lineup over the coming year. The M350 xDrive's Drift Moment feature will be available via an OTA software upgrade for existing models in 2027.
- The petrol BMW 3 Series has arrived: meet the new 320 and M350, yours from £45k Top Gear
- View Exterior Photos of the 2027 BMW 3-Series Car and Driver
- BMW’s revamped i3 boasts up to 468 miles of range The Verge
- The new BMW 3 Series BMW Group
- 2027 BMW 3 Series Revealed: The Brand’s Most Important Car Raises The Bar bmwblog.com
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