BMW Reveals Eighth-Generation 3 Series With New Design and 426hp M350 xDrive
BMW unveiled the eighth-generation 3 Series, G50, bringing the company’s latest Neue Klasse design language and updated technology to its combustion-powered executive sedan. The new series will initially be offered in three petrol variants — 318, 320 and M350 xDrive. The production will begin in Germany later this year.
The new-generation model will use BMW’s CLAR platform. The style and interior are inspired by the electric BMW i3. The G50 is 4765mm long, 1850mm in width and 1455mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2860mm, making it larger than the outgoing 3 Series.
Petrol powertrains
The 318 and 320 variants are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine which is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The 318 produces 156hp and 250Nm, while the 320 generates 211hp and 330Nm. Both models use an eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive.
The 318 can pick up speed from 0-100kph in 9.5 seconds and claimed to go up to 215kph. The 320 can complete the same sprint in 7.4 seconds and reaches a claimed 240kph.
The M350 xDrive acquires the top position of this range, replacing the current M340i xDrive. It uses a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine, that produces 426hp and 540Nm. Then power is sent to all four wheels through BMW’s xDrive system and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. BMW claims a 0-100kph speed generation in 4.1 seconds and an ultimate speed of 250kph.
Details of diesel versions have not been announced yet, but it has been confirmed that a plug-in hybrid variant will join the 3 Series range within the next year.
Design and technology
The G50 follows the design direction introduced with BMW’s Neue Klasse models. It features retractable door handles, cleaner body surfaces, wide wraparound LED tail-lamps and a redesigned front end with illuminated elements and angular daytime running lights.
Inside, the new 3 Series shares several features with the i3, including a 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, BMW’s pillar-to-pillar Panoramic Vision display, a four-spoke steering wheel and a new cylindrical drive selector. Other equipment includes Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, automated parking assistance, Amazon Alexa+ integration, powered and heated front seats, connected-car technology, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. Boot capacity stands at 450 litres.
Production and India launch
Production of the eighth-generation BMW 3 Series is set to begin at BMW’s Dingolfing plant in Germany in November 2026, with international market launches planned from early 2027.
