BMW Unveils New 3 Series Sedan, Reaffirming Commitment to Gasoline Engines

BMW has revealed the eighth generation of its iconic 3 Series sedan, signaling a continued reliance on gasoline engines despite advancements in electric vehicle technology. The new model, codenamed G50, sees a moderate increase in dimensions compared to its predecessor, the G20. It measures 4.76 meters long, 1.85 meters wide, and 1.45 meters high, with a wheelbase of 2.86 meters. The trunk capacity is 450 liters, a reduction of 30 liters.

The interior features a large 17.9-inch infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster with customizable displays, and an augmented reality head-up display. The cabin design echoes that of BMW's recent electric models like the iX3 and i3. The new 3 Series is expected to arrive in Israel in the first quarter of 2027.

Initially, the new 3 Series will be offered with three internal combustion engine options. These include two 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines producing 156 horsepower and 211 horsepower, respectively. A more powerful M350 xDrive variant features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assistance, delivering 443 horsepower and 59.1 kgfm of torque. This top-tier model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and includes an intelligent all-wheel-drive system with a "Drift Moment" mode that can send 100% of power to the rear axle. Plug-in hybrid versions are planned for the future, while details on a fully electric M3 remain undisclosed, though an electric M3 with four motors is anticipated.

The 3 Series has a rich history spanning over 50 years, with its production rooted in BMW's Dingolfing plant, which recently underwent a €650 million upgrade. Key historical models include the 1975 E21, the legendary E30 which introduced the M3 in 1986, and subsequent generations like the E36, E46, E90, F30, and G20, each bringing innovations such as turbocharging, advanced infotainment, and hybrid powertrains.