2027 BMW 3 Series Launches: M340i Transition to M350 and i3 EV Debut

BMW has officially unveiled the 2027 edition of its 3 Series, incorporating the latest Neue Klasse design language, which has previously been seen in the BMW 5 and 7 Series. A notable change is the replacement of the sporty M340i with the new M350, marking a shift in the performance lineup.

The launch features two powertrain options: the M350, powered by an internal combustion engine, and the fully electric i3. Both models were showcased globally, although no specific launch schedule for the Indian market has been disclosed.

In terms of design, the new BMW 3 Series boasts a prominent illuminated kidney grille and offers varying tyre sizes, with 19 to 21 inches for the electric as well as 18 to 20 inches for the petrol models. Colour options will be customised starting in 2027. Key interior features include a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats with memory function, and a 17.9-inch central display. This display forms part of a pillar-to-pillar BMW Panoramic iDrive display strip, and there is no traditional instrument cluster. Enhancements include a three-dimensional heads-up display and ambient lighting.

The central screen operates on BMW's OS X, derived from AOSP (Android Open Source Project), and supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates. From a mechanical standpoint, the 3 Series introduces two main variants: the i3 and the M350. The i3 comes in two variants—i3 50 xDrive and i3 40 xDrive. The i3 50 xDrive is powered by a motor delivering 462bhp and 645Nm of torque, accompanied by a 108.7kWh battery, which allows for a claimed range of 912 kilometres. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. Conversely, the i3 40 xDrive features a 369bhp motor and an 82.8kWh battery, with a promised range of 710 kilometres. A more powerful i3 M60 xDrive variant is scheduled for release in 2027.

Fast charging for the electric vehicle is facilitated by a DC fast charging capacity of up to 400kW. On the internal combustion side, the M350 xDrive is equipped with a 3.0-litre inline-six engine generating 437bhp and 580Nm of torque. This variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, marking an improvement over the M340i's time of 4.4 seconds. The more economical 320 variant delivers 208bhp from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.

Both internal combustion models incorporate a 48V mild-hybrid system, reinforcing their efficiency. As the automotive landscape evolves, the 2027 BMW 3 Series aims to maintain its position as a top contender in both electric and petrol segments, appealing to a diverse range of customers.

Despite the excitement surrounding the launch, details including pricing and specific variations for the Indian market have not yet been disclosed. BMW continues to build anticipation as it rolls out these advanced models—a pivotal point for the iconic 3 Series in this new era of automotive design and performance.