The eighth-generation saloon adds a fully electric i3 alongside petrol 320 and M350 xDrive models, with an i3 M60 xDrive due in 2027.
BMW has launched the eighth-generation 3 Series with its first electric version, the i3. The i3 50 xDrive offers up to 566 miles of WLTP range and charging at up to 400 kW. Petrol 320 and M350 xDrive models sit alongside it, and UK prices start at 44,975 pounds.
The BMW 3 Series is going electric. The eighth-generation car, which BMW says has sold more than 18 million examples worldwide since 1975, introduces the BMW i3 as the first fully electric 3 Series, with up to 566 miles of WLTP range. Two petrol models, the BMW 320 and the six-cylinder BMW M350 xDrive, are available from launch, and an all-electric BMW i3 M60 xDrive follows in 2027.
Engines and performance
| Model | Power | Torque | 0-62 mph |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW i3 50 xDrive | 469 hp | 645 Nm | 4.7 seconds |
| BMW i3 40 xDrive | 374 hp | 520 Nm | 5.4 seconds |
| BMW 320 | 211 hp | 330 Nm | 7.4 seconds |
| BMW M350 xDrive | 443 hp | 580 Nm | 4.1 seconds |
BMW says all output, charging, performance, consumption and range figures are provisional.
The i3 50 xDrive uses a 108.7 kWh battery for its 566-mile claim and can charge at up to 400 kW on an 800-volt DC rapid charger, adding up to 263 miles in ten minutes. The i3 40 xDrive has an 82.8 kWh battery, a 441-mile range and a 300 kW peak that gives up to 209 miles in ten minutes. A rear-axle electrically excited synchronous motor does the main work, with a compact asynchronous motor at the front when all-wheel drive is needed. AC charging at 11 kW is standard, and 22 kW is optional.
On the petrol side, the 320 is rear-wheel drive with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, 48-volt mild hybrid assistance and an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, and tops out at 149 mph. The M350 xDrive pairs a 3.0-litre straight-six with mild hybrid help for 443 hp, 69 hp more than its predecessor, and is limited electronically to 155 mph. A Drift Moment mode, switched on through the central display, sends power only to the rear wheels for controlled oversteer. It arrives during 2027 and can be added by software update to cars already delivered.
Design and technology
Every version shares the Neue Klasse look: a long wheelbase, short overhangs, flush door handles and a shark-nose front end. Buyers can choose from up to 11 paint colours at launch, including the new M Le Castellet Blue. Boot space is 450 litres in the petrol cars and 420 litres in the i3, which gains another 31 litres under the bonnet.
Inside, the car gets BMW Panoramic iDrive with a 17.9-inch central display and an optional 3D head-up display. Voice control is handled by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, enhanced by Alexa+. The optional Motorway Assistant allows hands-free SAE Level 2 driving on compatible motorways.
Production and UK pricing
Production of the i3 began in August 2026 at Plant Munich, where the first 3 Series was built in 1975. The 320 and M350 xDrive start at Plant Dingolfing from November 2026. In the UK, first i3 deliveries are due in autumn 2026, with the i3 40 xDrive from 47,925 pounds on the road. Petrol models arrive in January 2027, with the 320 from 44,975 pounds.
