by New BMW 3-Series with Internal Combustion Engines
Having recently unveiled the fully electric i3 sedan, BMW is already focusing on the next generation of the 3-Series with traditional engines. This model will also transition into the “Neue Klasse” era, borrowing much from the electric version in design, although it will not become its exact copy and will retain some of its own visual features.
Details about the internal combustion engine version remain a secret for now; however, in a new video about the development of the electric model, a fleeting shot of the new 3-Series in motion was subtly shown. The thick camouflage does its job well, so at first glance, it’s easy to mistake it for the i3, but upon closer inspection, the differences become noticeable.
Watch carefully until the end of the video recording, and the camouflage begins to crack. The prototype emerges during winter testing somewhere in Northern Europe, and the rear view gives away the game. Look through the snow and camouflage, and you will clearly see four exhaust pipe tips.
Successor to the M340i?
However, it is believed this is not the M3. As we have seen in previous spy photos, the new 3-Series will also be tested with four exhaust pipes, meaning this design will not be exclusive to the M3. The most likely candidate is the successor to the current M340i, which may receive the M350 badge.
Like the previous model, the new M350 is expected to use the familiar 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six B58 engine from BMW, with power slightly over 400 hp. This name appeared earlier this year due to a leak in a BMW accessories list, which also indicated that the M350 would be equipped with all-wheel drive xDrive. It may not be a full-fledged M model, but performance is expected to remain a key part of its appeal.
Wide Range of Powertrains
Of course, this will be just one of the versions in the new 3-Series lineup. BMW is expected to offer a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines, many of which will be built around 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder units. Mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are also likely, alongside a mild-hybrid version of the M3, which will use an updated version of the current 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six S58 engine.
The appearance of the new internal combustion 3-Series alongside the electric i3 demonstrates BMW’s strategy of parallel development of different types of powertrains. This allows the brand to meet diverse market needs and regulatory requirements in different regions while preserving its sporting heritage. The retention of powerful six-cylinder engines in the lineup, even in hybrid form, indicates that for many buyers, character and driving emotion remain priorities even in the era of electrification.
