Key Highlights
Development of the New Generation
The development of the new generation BMW 3-Series is nearing completion, and the latest spy photos from the Nürburgring confirm that the testing of the G50 series M350 is at the fine-tuning stage. The M350 will replace the current M340i and will become the gasoline choice for those who cannot afford a full-fledged M3.
Power of the Inline-Six Engine
Under the hood, the new M350 is expected to retain the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, but power will increase to approximately 420 hp. This will be a significant increase compared to the current M340i, which has 382 hp, and will bring it close to the 425 hp output of the 2014-2018 F30 M3 – the first turbocharged M3. The updated engine will likely be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive as standard, although a rear-wheel-drive version is also not out of the question.
Design and Platform
Despite the heavy camouflage, the M350’s sharper stance and familiar silhouette cannot be hidden. This generation of gasoline 3-Series is particularly interesting as it combines old and new BMW philosophies. Although the future fully electric 3-Series will use the new Neue Klasse platform, the combustion-engine M350 will continue to use an improved version of the CLAR architecture that underpins the current G20. This should keep it relatively light and agile, and updated electronics and chassis tuning will improve handling dynamics.
But even though it uses a completely different platform compared to the electric 3-Series – for which there will undoubtedly be an M Performance version in addition to the confirmed electric M3 – the new M350 will take design cues from the Neue Klasse electric models.
Styling Similarity, Different Foundation
Under the camouflage, the car’s proportions hide slim headlights and a Neue Klasse-style kidney grille, similar to the one already used on the new iX3 SUV. Expect sculpted surfaces and cleaner lines in line with BMW’s latest design trends, while maintaining the traditional sedan shape, although a Touring estate version will also be available for Europe.
Modern Interior and Production Plans
The M350’s interior will be completely modernized, including the BMW Panoramic Vision display projected across the base of the windshield and a new iDrive infotainment system. Combined with updated materials and a more minimalist layout, the result should be familiar but clearly next-generation. Sources close to BMW report that production of the new M350 is scheduled for November 2026, meaning a possible official unveiling at the end of next year, some time after the debut of the electric 3-Series.
Future of Gasoline Models
For those not yet ready to switch to electric, this could be the last gasoline 3-Series with the M Performance badge. But it will not be the only gasoline option from BMW’s M division. The M team is also working on a new gasoline M3, which will coexist with the first electric M3 and will have over 550 hp.
This car could become an important step in the brand’s transformation, combining traditional values with modern technology, making it appealing to enthusiasts who are not yet ready for a full transition to electrification. Its appearance also underscores BMW’s strategy of parallel development of different types of powertrains, ensuring a wide choice for buyers during a period of global change in the automotive industry.