Hot on the heels of the all-electric i3, the 2027 BMW 3 Series expands with new gas-powered variants. It features the same 2.5-box design as its EV counterpart, giving it a distinct look. Most importantly, the entire 3 Series lineup retains the familiar sports sedan proportions, just with a retro-futuristic wrapper. The same sharknose front fascia carries over from the i3, complete with short overhangs, muscular wheel arches, and a long wheelbase.
On the M Performance models, the 2027 BMW 3 Series adds M Yellow Lights. This pays tribute to BMW’s racing heritage, specifically its GT race cars. It complements the twin kidneys and four-eyed face, emphasizing the car’s width. For some added drama, the optional BMW Iconic Glow adds a welcome animation that begins when the driver approaches. Meanwhile, the rear end continues to emphasize the 3 Series’ muscular and sporty presence, especially on the M Performance models. Those come with a rear spoiler and, on gas models, quad exhaust tips. On the other hand, wheel sizes range from 19 to 21 inches in diameter depending on the variant. M Performance iterations or models equipped with the M Sport package also include a unique body kit, bumpers, and blue brake calipers. Finally, the M Sport Professional package adds blackout exterior details and red brake calipers.
2027 BMW 3 Series: Neue Klasse Inside
Like the i3, the gas 3 Series features the same futuristic interior that first debuted on the iX3 SUV. That means it features iDrive powered by BMW Operating System X, the Panoramic Vision displays, and a free-cut 17.9-inch main touchscreen. It also has the oddball steering wheel from the iX3, though you can choose a more conventional one on one of the M Sport packages. A 3D head-up display and a Harman Kardon premium audio system with Dolby Atmos are also available. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant come standard.
An expanded app portfolio brings plenty of games and video streaming options. This includes the AirConsole app, Boosteroid cloud gaming, and soon Amazon Prime. However, these come as part of extra-cost ConnectedDrive services. Meanwhile, over-the-air software updates keep the 3 Series’ tech fresh and up-to-date. On the driver assistance front, the 3 Series comes with the usual suspects, and you can update to add goodies like hands-free operation, automated parking, and more.
For 2027, the 3 Series offers a wide range of seating options. In addition to the standard comfort seats, sport and multi-function seats are available. The latter includes a massaging function on the i3, while gas models now offer ventilation. Three-zone climate control and heated rear seats are also available.
In terms of interior color choices, the 3 Series follows what the iX3 offers. These include Veganza faux leather upholstery in black, Castanea, Digital White, and Agave Green. You can also opt for BMW M and BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery, but they only come in black. Adelaide Grey is also available, but only on the upcoming i3 M60 xDrive.
Familiar Yet Fresh Powertrains
The 2027 3 Series offers a choice of gas and electric powertrains. We already know about the i3’s dual-motor AWD setup, which has 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. That will be joined by a more potent i3 M60 xDrive. BMW has also revised the driving range ratings it expects to receive from the EPA. Depending on the wheel size, the i3 has a range of 446 to 468 miles on the 50 xDrive model.
On the gas front, the base 330 uses a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft. Moving up to the M350 xDrive swaps that out for BMW’s legendary B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 437 hp and 428 lb-ft. Both gas variants use a 48-volt mild hybrid setup, but the M350 xDrive takes it up a notch by using the electric motor as a crankshaft-mounted starter-generator that contributes 17 hp. As a result, the M350 xDrive can hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. Both gas-powered variants use an eight-speed automatic transmission.
BMW made significant revisions to its existing gas engines for use in the new 3 Series. These include fully variable intake valve lift, switchable exhaust valves, shortened intake-valve opening timing, and a Miller combustion cycle to improve air-fuel ratio across the operating range and efficiency. Additionally, gas models include redesigned combustion chambers, intake ports, and revisions to camshaft timing, fuel injection, ignition, and exhaust gas routing. Furthermore, both gas variants feature new turbochargers.
2027 BMW 3 Series: Still the Ultimate Driving Machine?
A thoroughly revised chassis and body help the 3 Series retain its trademark sharp handling. Wider front and rear tracks, the long wheelbase, and near-perfect weight distribution contribute to its agility, balance, and composure. Two types of available adaptive suspension options combined with the optional variable sport steering and M Sport differential help further sharpen the 3 Series driving dynamics.
The M350 xDrive fine-tunes things even further with model-specific spring and damper tuning, additional front-end reinforcement, and improved anti-roll bar mounting. It also features a new Drift Moment feature, which is essentially RWD mode that allows for some sideways shenanigans. However, it won’t be available at launch. Instead, the feature arrives in 2027 via an over-the-air update.
Production of the gas-powered 2027 BMW 3 Series starts this November at the Dingolfing plant. Pricing starts at $51,250 for the 330. Add $2,000 for the 330 xDrive. On the other hand, the M350 xDrive starts at $67,250, while the i3 50 xDrive costs $62,850.
Source: BMW
