The new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan has been revealed, featuring styling familiar from the i3 saloon, with the 326 kW M350 xDrive already confirmed for SA…
- G50-generation 3 Series officially debuts
- 52 mm longer than outgoing G20 sedan
- Adopts styling from NA0-series i3 saloon
- 6-cylinder M350 xDrive boasts 326 kW
- Pair of ICE units and EV confirmed for SA
- No mention of turbodiesel powertrains
Meet the new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan. While its “Neue Klasse” styling looks decidedly similar to that of the new NA0-series fully electric i3 saloon revealed earlier this year, this model is seemingly based on an updated version of the outgoing G20-series sedan’s CLAR platform.
Set to be produced at the brand’s Dingolfing factory in Germany (as opposed to its Munich facility, where the i3 will be built), the 8th-generation 3 Series sedan is scheduled to launch in South Africa in the opening quarter of 2027.
The G50-series model measures 4 765 mm from bumper to bumper, making it some 52 mm longer than the outgoing G20-generation saloon. Interestingly, the wheelbase has also grown to 2 860 mm, meaning there’s an extra 9 mm between the axles.
So, what sort of powertrains are on the cards? Well, BMW Group South Africa has thus far confirmed 3 derivatives for the local market: the fully electric i3 50 xDrive (345 kW/645 Nm) along with the 320 and M350 xDrive. That suggests the 275 kW i3 40 xDrive and the upcoming “ultra-potent” i3 M60 xDrive won’t initially be on the menu for SA buyers.
All petrol engines feature 48V mild-hybrid technology, with BMW furthermore revealing that a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant is planned for 2027 (though that derivative has also not been confirmed for Mzansi). Fascinatingly, the company’s local and international press material makes no mention of turbodiesel engines.
Still, it’s the M Performance derivative that will likely grab headlines, with the M350 xDrive described as the “combustion-engine flagship” of the new 3 Series range. This variant employs a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine (with mild-hybrid technology), delivering 326 kW and 580 Nm to all 4 corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The German automaker claims the M350 xDrive – which will effectively replace the outgoing M340i xDrive (285 kW/500 Nm) – can complete the 0-100 kph sprint in 4.1 seconds, before topping out at an electronically capped 250 kph. It features a new “Drift Moment” function, which the company says “allows the driver to send the engine’s power to the rear wheels only”.
The 320, meanwhile, employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor (again with mild-hybrid assistance) delivering 155 kW and 330 Nm to the rear wheels. There’s also a 318 with 115 kW and 250 Nm, though this derivative isn’t on the cards for SA.
Inside the new 3 Series, you’ll find what BMW terms its latest “Panoramic iDrive” set-up, comprising a full-width “Panoramic Vision” display, a 3D head-up display, a 17.9-inch central screen and the multifunctional steering wheel. BMW says it will offer a choice of 4 interior designs, each offering a “harmoniously co-ordinated selection of colours and materials”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan launch in South Africa?
A: The 8th-generation BMW 3 Series sedan is scheduled to arrive in South African showrooms during the first quarter of 2027.
Q: Which G50 BMW 3 Series models and engines are confirmed for South Africa?
A: BMW Group South Africa has confirmed three derivatives: the 155 kW 320, the flagship 326 kW M350 xDrive (replacing the M340i xDrive) and the fully electric i3 50 xDrive producing 345 kW.
Q: What are the performance specs of the new BMW M350 xDrive?
A: Powered by a mild-hybrid 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-6 engine delivering 326 kW and 580 Nm, the M350 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and features a new “Drift Moment” rear-wheel-drive mode.
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