Eighth-Generation BMW 3 Series Enters the Neue Klasse Era

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. (September 29, 2026) – BMW has introduced the eighth-generation BMW 3 Series, bringing its most successful model into the Neue Klasse era with an all-new design, a new digital cockpit and a choice of fully electric or gasoline power. The lineup is led by the new BMW i3, the first fully electric 3 Series built on the Neue Klasse architecture, alongside gasoline models with 48V mild-hybrid technology topped by the six-cylinder BMW M350 xDrive.

Four models make up the U.S. launch lineup. All prices below exclude the $1,350 destination and handling charge.

Neue Klasse Design Across Every Powertrain
Slightly larger than its predecessor, the new 3 Series applies the Neue Klasse design language to both electric and gasoline models while keeping classic sports-sedan proportions. A reinterpreted “sharknose” front end, a near full-width horizontal light signature, flush door handles and wider tracks define the exterior. M Performance models add standard Iconic Glow kidney lighting and optional M Yellow Lights inspired by BMW’s GT racing cars. Eleven exterior colors are offered at launch, including the new Le Castellet Blue metallic.

Panoramic iDrive and BMW Operating System X
Inside, BMW Panoramic iDrive replaces the traditional instrument cluster with BMW Panoramic Vision, which projects information across the full width of the lower windshield. It is joined by a 17.9″ free-cut Central Display angled toward the driver, a new multifunction steering wheel and an optional 3D Head-Up Display. The Android-based BMW Operating System X supports ongoing Software Updates, and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant uses Amazon Alexa+ large language model technology for more natural voice control. A panoramic glass sunroof and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Gasoline Models with 48V Mild-Hybrid Technology
The BMW M350 xDrive tops the gasoline range and serves as the 3 Series’ entry point to BMW M. Its 3.0-liter inline-six and transmission-mounted starter generator produce 437 hp and 428 lb-ft, up from 386 hp in the outgoing model. With standard xDrive and an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, it reaches 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. A Drift Moment rear-wheel-drive mode arrives by Software Update during 2027, including for cars already delivered.

The BMW 330 and 330 xDrive use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a belt-driven 48V starter generator, producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft. Both reach 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. All gasoline models use Miller-cycle combustion, and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph with sport tires.

BMW i3 50 xDrive: Sixth-Generation eDrive
The BMW i3 50 xDrive pairs an electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear with an asynchronous motor at the front for a combined 463 hp and 476 lb-ft. It reaches 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and carries an estimated range of 446–468 miles, based on preliminary BMW testing to EPA procedures. Its new cylindrical-cell battery is integrated directly into the body structure. The 800V system supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW, adding an estimated 191–208 miles in 10 minutes. AC charging runs at up to 15.4 kW, and bidirectional Vehicle-to-Load and Vehicle-to-Home functions are supported. A higher-performance BMW i3 M60 xDrive follows in 2027.

Driving Dynamics and Driver Assistance
Each powertrain gets its own BMW Driving Stack. In the i3, the Heart of Joy high-performance computer centralizes drive, braking, steering and recuperation control at ten times the speed of previous systems. Gasoline models gain a longer wheelbase, wider tracks, revised steering and axles, and optional adaptive suspension. The M350 xDrive adds standard Adaptive M Suspension, variable sport steering, an M Sport differential and M Sport brakes.

Driving Assistant Plus with BMW Symbiotic Drive is standard, letting the driver steer, brake or accelerate without switching the system off. Optional Highway Assist enables attentive hands-free driving on suitable limited-access highways at up to 85 mph.

Production and Availability
The BMW i3 is built at BMW Group Plant Munich, where series production began in August 2026. Gasoline models will be built at Plant Dingolfing from November 2026. U.S. sales of the i3 50 xDrive, 330, 330 xDrive and M350 xDrive begin in the first quarter of 2027.

“Each generation of the BMW 3 Series has been the definitive car of its time. The new BMW 3 Series continues this tradition with a technological leap forward into a new era, a single design spanning all drive system variants.”

– Jochen Goller, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales

“The eighth generation of our icon reaps the benefits of this technological leap forward, regardless of the drive system type providing the power. The result is Sheer Driving Pleasure, redefined.”

– Dr. Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse, BMW Compact and Midsize Class