- Eighth-gen BMW 3 Series shares Neue Klasse styling across its petrol and electric models.
- Electric i3 50 xDrive combines 345kW with a claimed WLTP range of up to 912km.
- BMW's M350 xDrive uses a 326kW mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine, with NZ launch details still undisclosed.
BMW has revealed the complete, uncamouflaged eighth-generation 3 Series, showing how its electric and combustion-powered saloons will wear the same Neue Klasse design language.
The family reveal brings the exterior, cabin and powertrain line-up together, with detail differences distinguishing the electric i3 from its petrol relatives.
A longer wheelbase and short overhangs give the saloon its sporting proportions, while BMW describes the body shape as a 2.5-box design.
At the front, the kidney grille and headlights form a combined light signature. Horizontal rear lights carry the broader, flatter treatment around the back.
A shared look inside and out
The cabin adopts BMW's Panoramic iDrive system and Operating System X, extending the new design approach beyond the bodywork. Buyers choosing petrol or electric power will therefore see a common family identity, even though the cars will come from different factories.
BMW will build the electric i3 in Munich, while combustion-powered versions will be produced in Dingolfing. The petrol launch line-up includes two four-cylinder models alongside the six-cylinder M350 xDrive, and plug-in hybrid versions are also planned.
Electric range or six-cylinder pace
The i3 50 xDrive produces 345kW and 645Nm, with a 108.7kWh battery and a claimed WLTP range of up to 912km. BMW quotes a 0–100km/h time of 4.7 seconds. The i3 40 xDrive pairs 275kW with an 82.8kWh battery and up to 710km of WLTP range.
An 800V electrical system supports DC charging at up to 400kW in the i3 50 xDrive. Under suitable conditions with maximum charging power available, BMW says 10 minutes can add up to 423km of range. Charging performance depends on the battery temperature and state of charge as well as the charger.
For petrol buyers, the M350 xDrive combines a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance for 326kW. Its quoted 0–100km/h time is 4.1 seconds, with top speed limited to 250km/h.
BMW also plans an electric i3 M60 for 2027, although its specifications have not been disclosed. The announced equipment and performance figures apply to the German market; the release does not confirm New Zealand pricing or launch timing.
