The new 3 Series (G50) comes with three petrol variants: 318, 320 and M350 xDrive. And a plug-in hybrid is due over the coming year.
Production starts soon, with global launches from early 2027. India timing is yet to be confirmed.
`It looks like the i3, but it is not electric
The G50 is 4,765mm long and 1,850mm wide with a decent height of 1,455mm tall. This makes it longer and wider than the outgoing G20.
Moreover, the Neue Klasse styling brings retractable door handles, wraparound LED tail-lamps, blacked-out front panels with angled daytime running lamps, a quad-exhaust setup and bright-yellow DRLs.
Underneath, the car uses an updated version of BMW's CLAR platform, the same family as today's model. The i3 sits on a separate electric platform. BMW says the chassis gets a quicker steering ratio and wider tracks.
The Three petrol engines
| Variant | Engine | Power and torque | Drive | 0-100kph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 318 | 2.0-litre turbo-petrol | 156hp, 250Nm | Rear-wheel drive | 9.5 seconds |
| 320 | 2.0-litre turbo-petrol | 211hp, 330Nm | Rear-wheel drive | 7.4 seconds |
| M350 xDrive | 3.0-litre turbo straight-six | 426hp, 540Nm | All-wheel drive | 4.1 seconds |
All three use an eight-speed automatic and a 48V mild-hybrid system, where a small electric motor assists the petrol engine without needing to be plugged in. The performance figures are BMW's claims.
The M350 xDrive replaces the M340i xDrive. It gets adaptive dampers and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential as standard. A Drift Moment feature disconnects the front axle, so the car can slide like a rear-drive model.
Cabin and features
The cabin is close to the i3's looks. You get a 17.9-inch touchscreen and a newly designed multifunctional steering wheel. Along with a Panoramic Vision display that runs across the base of the windshield and shows driver information.
Other features include Amazon Alexa+ integration, powered and heated front seats, Level 2 ADAS, auto park assist, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. Boot space is 450 litres. The M350 adds an M steering wheel and a black cabin theme.
A Final Word…
The new 3 Series keeps petrol power under i3-style design. It has three engines confirmed, production starts in November 2026, and global sales begin from early 2027. India launch timing and pricing remain unannounced.
The G50 is expected to arrive, but the timeline is hazy as nothing has been announced yet. And we will keep you posted with updates for the same.
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