Pricing and technical specifications for the internal combustion versions of the newly redesigned BMW 3 Series have been officially confirmed, starting at £44,975 in the United Kingdom. These traditional powertrain models, equipped with advanced 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, debut alongside updated figures for the all-electric i3 sedan, showcasing BMW’s technology-open approach to its core compact executive segment.
The internal combustion engine lineup arrives in showrooms to sit alongside its battery-electric stablemate. It utilizes a heavily updated platform optimized specifically for liquid fuels rather than the dedicated Neue Klasse EV architecture. Deliveries across international markets are slated to ramp up into early 2027.
Entry-Level Performance: The BMW 320 Variant
At the base of the petrol hierarchy sits the entry-level BMW 320. This model is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine featuring the latest generation of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to comply with stringent Euro 7 emissions standards.
- Horsepower: 208 hp (208 bhp)
- Torque: 243 lb-ft (330 Nm)
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic sending power to the rear wheels
- 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration: 7.4 seconds
- Top Speed: 149 mph
In terms of dimensions, the new generation grows slightly compared to its predecessor. At 4,760mm long, it adds roughly 52mm overall, stretching the wheelbase modestly to unlock enhanced rear passenger legroom while providing a refined stance on standard 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Performance Flagship: BMW M350 xDrive
For enthusiasts seeking higher performance prior to the rollout of the next-generation M3, the range-topping BMW M350 xDrive steps in to replace the older M340i. The M350 utilizes a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine supported by 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.
- Horsepower: 437 hp in the US (443 PS / 420-443 hp depending on regional tune)
- Torque: 428 lb-ft (580 Nm)
- Drivetrain: Intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive with a controlled rear differential lock
- 0-62 mph Acceleration: 4.1 seconds (0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, or 3.6 seconds with a one-foot rollout)
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h)
The M350 xDrive comes comprehensively equipped with adaptive M suspension, variable sport steering, and aggressive aerodynamic elements such as a front air deflector and rear Gurney flap. It rides on 19-inch or 20-inch wheels, housing large performance brakes with distinct colored calipers.
Innovative Chassis Dynamics and Drift Moment
A standout feature on the high-performance M350 xDrive is the introduction of Drift Moment. Activated via the central display, this software-driven mode allows the vehicle to decouple its front axle and send 100 percent of the engine’s power exclusively to the rear wheels. This offers an unbridled driving experience traditionally reserved for full-fat M division models, and the capability will be deployed via an over-the-air software update next year.
Underpinning the driving dynamics is BMW’s central Heart of Joy software architecture, adapted from the electric Neue Klasse platform. Working alongside a new 6D Motion Observer sensor cluster, the system measures lateral, vertical, and longitudinal acceleration in real time. It instantly coordinates stability control, brake interventions, and torque vectoring with zero communication lag.
Inside the cabin, the petrol models mirror their electric i3 counterparts. They feature a minimalist dashboard layout centered around a 17.9-inch touchscreen, the BMW Panoramic iDrive operating system, and an optional 3D head-up display. Sales and showroom arrivals for the newly expanded BMW 3 Series petrol lineup are scheduled to commence globally through the first and second quarters of 2027.
