While BMW is clearly focusing on its upcoming electric lineup with the highly anticipated next-generation i3, the Bavarian automaker is far from abandoning its iconic petrol-powered sedan. An official video recently devoted to developing this zero-emission model quietly revealed a major detail. A new internal-combustion BMW 3 Series is indeed in the works.
In Brief
BMW is preparing a new generation of the petrol-powered 3 Series, which will include an intermediate sporty variant rumored to carry the M350 badge, in addition to the upcoming M3. The new M350 should push past 400 horsepower and will continue to offer the traditional inline-six engine. At the same time, the upcoming M3 will retain this block, probably with light hybridization, as its market launch is expected around 2028. The lineup is moving toward simplification with fewer variants, and could see rear-wheel drive and manual transmissions phased out in favor of all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission.
A sporty take on the 3 Series… but not an M3
Identified under the codename “G50,” this next generation makes only a brief appearance on screen. But that short flash is enough to confirm that the maker continues to bet on gasoline and diesel powertrains alongside its electric push.
The detail that immediately catches the eye? A four-tailpipe exhaust system clearly visible at the rear. At first glance, that looks like a teaser for the future BMW M3. However, that’s not what it is.
For years, BMW has reserved this kind of setup for its M Performance models, placed just below the true M versions. This strategy should carry on with the next 3 Series… which will thus welcome an intermediate-sporting variant.
All signs point to the replacement for the current M340i adopting a new name. A designation “M350” briefly surfaced on BMW’s U.S. site… Suggesting a notable uptick in power.
A six-cylinder engine still at the heart of the DNA
Another major evolution: the disappearance of the suffix “i.” Historically associated with fuel injection, it will now be reserved for 100% electric models. A shift that fits BMW’s new naming strategy.
Under the hood, the Bavarian brand would remain true to its fundamentals. The higher-performance variants of this eighth generation of the 3 Series would therefore keep the famous inline-six engine. The future M350 could thus carry an evolution of the B58 block. A 3.0-liter turbo engine renowned for its smoothness and performance.
Power is expected to exceed 400 horsepower, confirming the dynamic positioning of this BMW M Performance variant from launch.
At the same time, BMW is also preparing the successor to the M3, known by the code “G84.” Good news for purists: the inline-six should be retained. Probably with mild electrification of the S58 engine.
Unlike the current M5, which uses heavier plug-in hybrid electrification, the future M3 could lean toward mild hybrid technology. The aim: boost performance without significantly adding weight to the car.
A streamlined lineup coming to BMW?
Expected around 2028, this new M3 could trim down its lineup. The plan would be to offer only all-wheel-drive xDrive paired with an automatic transmission.
This direction would potentially spell the end of rear-wheel-drive versions and manual transmissions, though nothing has been officially confirmed yet. The next petrol-powered 3 Series should be unveiled in the coming months, with a market launch planned between late 2026 and early 2027 depending on the market.
In parallel, BMW is also working on a Touring version, paving the way for new sporty variants, notably a hypothetical M3 Touring for certain markets like the United States.
Finally, this new generation should borrow some design cues from the Neue Klasse, while maintaining proportions suited to petrol powertrains. A plug-in hybrid is also expected to accompany the transition to electrification.
With this upcoming generation, BMW shows that it’s not ready to turn the page on internal combustion. Between a promising M350, a still-present six-cylinder, and an M3 in the works, the 3 Series continues to be the brand’s sporty core.
Key Takeaways
- BMW is prepping a new generation of the 3 Series powered by petrol, code-named “G50.”
- An intermediate sporty variant, the M350, is expected to emerge, adopting the inline-six turbo.
- The M350’s power will exceed 400 horsepower.
- The upcoming M3 (G84) will also retain the six-cylinder engine, likely with mild electrification.
- An official debut is expected in the coming months, with a launch planned between late 2026 and early 2027.
- BMW aims to simplify the lineup, with a potential phasing out of rear-drive and manuals on the M3.
- Touring versions and plug-in hybrid variants are also being considered to accompany the petrol lineup.
FAQ
When will the new BMW 3 Series petrol model be available?
The market launch for the next gasoline-powered BMW 3 Series is planned for late 2026 to early 2027, depending on the market.
What powertrain for the future sporty version of the 3 Series?
The expected sport variant, the M350, will retain a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six, with output above 400 horsepower.
Will the new M3 still offer rear-wheel drive and a manual?
BMW is reportedly considering offering only all-wheel-drive xDrive paired with an automatic for the next M3, but nothing is official yet.
Are Touring and plug-in hybrid versions planned?
Yes, BMW is said to be working on a Touring variant and also planning a plug-in hybrid variant for the upcoming petrol-powered 3 Series.
Will the new generation adopt the Neue Klasse design cues?
The next 3 Series is expected to borrow some design cues from the Neue Klasse while maintaining proportions suitable for petrol powertrains.
