Andrea Innocenti In December 2027, the legendary BMW 3 Series will make its return to Italy , marking the beginning of a new era for the Bavarian brand's mid-range model. After more than five decades of evolution, the sedan takes on a completely new identity, inspired by the Neue Klasse design language already introduced by several electric models from the Munich-based manufacturer.
The transition isn't just about looks: the new 3 Series is the only combustion-engined model in the family, exclusively equipped with 48V mild-hybrid petrol engines, while the electric version is represented by the BMW i3 . The most obvious change is the absence of diesel engines, a move that confirms the company's commitment to cleaner solutions.
Exterior design: the Neue Klasse signature
Externally, the new 3 Series stands out with a wider grille, framed by a thin LED strip that recreates the classic BMW double kidney grille. The headlights, now full-width, are integrated into a profile reminiscent of the "quadrifocal" design of the 1962 1500, but with a modern interpretation.
The overall length is 4,77 m, with a wheelbase of 2,86 m, while the height is 1,46 m, giving the vehicle a lower and sleeker silhouette than the previous generation.
Distinctive proportions and details
The hood is wider and the cabin is shifted slightly rearward, improving aerodynamics and lowering the visual center of gravity. The door handles are retractable, and the taillights, set into the hood profile, recall the aesthetics of the new i3. Alloy wheels range from 18 to 20 inches for the petrol versions, while the M350 xDrive version can sport more aggressive 20-inch wheels.
Panoramic iDrive interior and technology
The interior is based on the digital experience of the BMW Panoramic iDrive, a system that combines four components: the Panoramic Vision (head-up display that projects information onto the lower part of the windshield), the multifunction steering wheel, the 17,9-inch Central Display and, optionally, the 3D Head-Up Display . The new central display, based on an OS developed by BMW on Android, manages navigation, entertainment and driving controls, updating via OTA.
The dashboard features only three physical buttons—parking brake, rear window heater, and hazard lights—while most functions are handled by touch or voice commands. The seats are available in recycled fabrics, synthetic microfiber, and, in the most luxurious version, Merino leather with massage options.
Engine range and performance
At launch, the 3 Series will be offered with three petrol engines, all featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and TwinPower Turbo turbochargers. The engines differ in displacement, power output, and drivetrain.
Mild-hybrid petrol engines
The base BMW 318 model is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 156 hp and 250 Nm of torque, mated to rear-wheel drive. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9,5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 215 km/h. The BMW 320 shares the same displacement but offers 211 hp and 330 Nm of torque, retaining rear-wheel drive but with a 0-100 km/h time of 7,4 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h.
M350 xDrive version
At the top end, we find the BMW M350 xDrive equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine producing 443 hp and 580 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to the xDrive all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Thanks to these features, the M350 xDrive sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. Standard features include Adaptive M suspension, M Sport differential, variable sport steering and M Sport braking, as well as the “Drift Moment” function that temporarily transfers more torque to the rear wheels for controlled oversteer.
Versions, prices and delivery schedule
The German price list indicates a starting price of €49.900 for the 318, €54.900 for the 320 and €71.950 for the M350 xDrive. In Italy, sales will begin in December 2027, with deliveries scheduled for spring 2028. The body is available in eleven colors, including the exclusive M Le Castellet Blue metallic, and wheel options range from 18 to 21 inches depending on the variant.
Alongside the combustion engine version, BMW is presenting the new i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive**, both with all-wheel drive, 84 kWh and 109 kWh batteries respectively, a range of up to 912 km and power outputs of 374 hp and 469 hp. These electric versions complete the 3 Series family, making it the first mid-size sedan to simultaneously offer mild-hybrid and fully electric petrol engine options.