BMW is taking the 3 Series into a new era with the arrival of the first fully electric 3 Series, the new BMW i3. It forms part of a wider new-generation 3 Series line-up that will also include petrol-powered models and the performance-focused M350 xDrive.
For South Africa, the new range is scheduled to arrive from the first quarter of 2027. The i3 50 xDrive will be the sole fully electric model at launch, while the petrol-powered BMW 320 and M350 xDrive will join it.
The biggest headline belongs to the electric i3, which BMW says can deliver up to 912 km of range on the WLTP cycle.
A new look for the 3 Series
The new 3 Series adopts BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, bringing a noticeably different appearance to the familiar sedan.
The design retains the traditional proportions of the 3 Series, with a longer wheelbase, short overhangs and pronounced wheel arches. The front end introduces a new interpretation of BMW’s kidney grille and twin headlights, which now form part of a single visual unit.
The fully electric i3 and combustion-engined 3 Series models share the same basic design, with differences largely reflecting their respective powertrains.
The i3 will be available with wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches, while combustion-powered models can be specified with wheels between 18 and 20 inches.
A completely new cabin
Inside, BMW has taken a different approach with its latest generation of technology.
The new 3 Series introduces BMW Panoramic iDrive, combining the BMW Panoramic Vision display, an optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, a 17.9-inch central display and a redesigned multifunction steering wheel.
The Panoramic Vision system projects information into the driver’s line of sight, while the central display is angled towards the driver.
The system runs on BMW Operating System X and incorporates the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW says Amazon Alexa+ AI technology will also expand the voice-control functionality.
Other features include electric front seats with memory functionality, a panoramic sunroof and available Harman Kardon sound systems.
The 912 km electric 3 Series
The BMW i3 50 xDrive uses BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, featuring an 800-volt electrical architecture, new cylindrical battery cells and two electric motors. The system produces 345 kW and 645 Nm, allowing the i3 50 xDrive to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. Power comes from a 108.7 kWh battery, with BMW claiming a maximum WLTP range of 912 km.
DC charging is available at up to 400 kW. BMW says the i3 can add up to 423 km of range in 10 minutes when connected to a suitable fast charger. The i3 also supports AC charging at up to 22 kW and bidirectional charging.
The performance option
For buyers who still want a traditional combustion-powered 3 Series, the new BMW M350 xDrive sits at the top of the petrol range.
It uses a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine combined with 48V mild-hybrid technology. Total system output is 326 kW and 580 Nm, with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel drive.
BMW claims a 0-100 km/h time of 4.1 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
The M350 xDrive also introduces a new Drift Moment function, which allows the driver to send engine power to the rear wheels for controlled sideways driving.
BMW 320 joins the range
The more conventional BMW 320 uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology.
It produces 155 kW and 330 Nm, with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. BMW claims a 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 7.5 L/100km.
Coming to South Africa in 2027
The new BMW 3 Series range will arrive in South Africa from the first quarter of 2027, with final local specifications to be confirmed closer to launch.
The local line-up will initially consist of:
– BMW i3 50 xDrive: 345 kW, 645 Nm, up to 912 km WLTP range
– BMW M350 xDrive: 326 kW, 580 Nm
– BMW 320: 155 kW, 330 Nm
BMW says a plug-in hybrid version will also join the 3 Series range over the coming year.
The new i3 M60 xDrive M Performance is planned for 2027, although BMW has not confirmed the model for South Africa.
