With the next-generation 2027 BMW 3 Series on the cusp of production, BMW has put its latest development milestone on display. The new model will feature a host of refinements: a design with Neue Klasse influences, an M350 xDrive flagship putting out 443 hp, and better chassis work to go with the updated four- and six-cylinder mild-hybrid powertrains.
BMW has made it clear that its storied sports sedan is in the final testing phase. At the Miramas proving grounds in the south of France, you can find camouflaged prototypes being put through their paces at high speed as engineers make last-minute adjustments to handling and ride quality ahead of the car’s arrival in showrooms.
There was some question as to where the gasoline 3 Series stood after the unveiling of the all-electric i3 earlier this year, but BMW has confirmed those traditional powertrains are far from dead.
A Neue Klasse for the 3 Series
The 2027 version takes on the brand’s new design language without sacrificing the proportions that have rendered the 3 Series so instantly identifiable. There is a longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs, cleaner surfacing and a contemporary take on the four-headlight front end. In the cockpit, things are more driver-centric than before thanks to the new Panoramic iDrive infotainment and BMW Operating System X.
Handling is no afterthought
Enthusiasts will be looking closely at how the new 3 Series drives, and BMW has given them reason to be interested. Development has been centred on dynamics and steering feel. The chassis has been overhauled with a wider track front and rear, revised steering and an integrated braking system. Even the standard suspension gets new lift-related dampers, though adaptive options are still available.
While the double-joint front strut and five-link rear remain, higher-preload anti-roll bar mounts give the body more control when driven hard. For the first time on a 3 Series, one can also order 20-inch performance rubber – 245/35R20 up front and 275/30R20 in back.
The M350 xDrive takes the top spot
In place of the M340i comes the BMW M350 xDrive, the new non-M leader of the pack. Its 3.0-liter turbo inline-six, aided by 48-volt mild-hybrid tech, makes for a combined 443 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. With the eight-speed Steptronic and xDrive doing their job, the M350 xDrive will do 0-60 in roughly 4.1 seconds, faster than any six-cylinder 3 Series short of an M3. It comes with an M Sport differential and Variable Sport Steering as standard.
Then there is the matter of Drift Moment.
It is an oddity not seen before on the 3 Series. On the M350 xDrive, a command from the center display with stability control off will put all engine power to the rear wheels. BMW intends to offer the sort of rear-drive experience usually found in full M models. It will not be ready for day one, however; an over-the-air update later in 2027 will activate the function even on cars already in customer hands.
Under the hood of the software, a new electronics architecture and the BMW Driving Stack tie everything together for better responsiveness.
As for U.S. pricing, BMW has not said yet, though the M350 xDrive is slated to start rolling off the line in the second half of 2026.
