- BMW's new M350 xDrive uses a 3.0-litre inline-6 producing 326kW and 580Nm.
- The M350 xDrive reaches 100km/h in 4.1 seconds and is electronically limited to 250km/h.
- Drift Moment is due via software in 2027, directing engine power towards the rear wheels.
BMW is putting its next combustion-powered 3 Series through a final round of summer driving dynamics testing at Miramas.
The work brings the new model closer to production and confirms that combustion engines remain in the mix.
The programme covers engine response, chassis balance and the mild-hybrid system's calibration.
Engineers have also been assessing ride comfort and chassis behaviour across the varied Miramas test surfaces.
The sharpest car in the current test programme is the M350 xDrive. Its 3.0-litre inline-6 produces 326kW and 580Nm, giving the new model a claimed 0-100km/h time of 4.1 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h.
4- and 6-cylinder engines continue
The wider engine range will include 4- and 6-cylinder units. BMW is pairing those combustion engines with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, carrying electrification into the line-up without dropping the conventional powerplants at the centre of this testing programme.
This is the final summer round of driving dynamics work before manufacturing gets under way. BMW says series production is scheduled to start during the second half of 2026.
Drift Moment arrives by software
The M350 xDrive will also gain a function called Drift Moment. BMW says it can direct engine power towards the rear wheels, changing how the xDrive model distributes its output when the feature is active.
Drift Moment is due to arrive through software in 2027, after the new 3 Series enters production. BMW has not confirmed the feature for the beginning of production.
New Zealand timing, pricing and specification have not been announced. BMW has therefore given no indication that the 326kW M350 xDrive, or its Drift Moment function, will be offered here.
