BMW Unveils New 3 Series Sedan, Retaining Gasoline Engines

BMW has revealed the eighth generation of its iconic 3 Series sedan, emphasizing its continued commitment to gasoline engines despite the growing trend towards electrification. The new model, codenamed G50, sees a modest 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 powertrain options. The base model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 156 horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds. An intermediate version with the same engine offers 211 horsepower, reaching 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. Plug-in hybrid variants are planned for the future.

The top-tier M350 xDrive model is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine assisted by a mild-hybrid system. This engine delivers 443 horsepower and 59.1 kgm of torque, channeled to all wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. This version includes an intelligent all-wheel-drive system with a Drift Mode that can send 100% of power to the rear axle, with an Over-The-Air update planned for next year to enhance this feature. This new M350 is 69 horsepower stronger and 0.3 seconds quicker to 100 km/h than the outgoing M340 model.