Next-Gen BMW 3 Series Confirmed with 4-Cyl, 6-Cyl Engines and Drift Mode

The next-gen BMW 3 Series is all set to enter into production phase. The new 3 Series is set to continue with internal-combustion engines (ICE) along with electric and hybrid powertrains. The top-end combustion-powered version will be the BMW M350 xDrive, which will replace the M340i xDrive.

The M350 xDrive will not be the only combustion-powered version of the new 3 Series. BMW has confirmed that the next generation will continue with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines. Diesel power is also expected to remain available in selected markets. A plug-in hybrid version is also expected, although BMW has not yet announced its complete specifications. The electric counterpart will be sold separately as the BMW i3.

The upcoming M350 xDrive will be powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology producing a combined power output of 443hp and 580Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 8-speed automatic gearbox and gets xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard. The upcoming M350 xDrive can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in a claimed time of 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 250 kmph.

The biggest talking point is a new function called Drift Moment. The system will allow the M350 xDrive to operate in a rear-wheel-drive configuration by directing the engine's output entirely to the rear axle. The function will be accessible through the central display. It will work with the Dynamic Stability Control system switched off, allowing the driver to use the rear-drive setup for controlled oversteer. However, Drift Moment will not be available from the beginning. BMW plans to introduce the function in 2027 through an over-the-air software update.

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The M350 xDrive will receive several chassis changes compared with the regular versions of the next-generation 3 Series. These include additional front and rear bracing, firmer springs and performance-focused tyre configurations. An active rear differential will also form part of the setup. BMW is currently conducting final testing at its Miramas proving ground in southern France. Development prototypes have also been tested at the Nürburgring and in winter conditions at Arjeplog. The car's dynamic functions are controlled through a central vehicle-dynamics computer. It receives information from a 6D motion sensor and coordinates systems such as braking intervention, differential operation and torque distribution.

The next-generation 3 Series will adopt BMW's latest design language, which will also be used across its new-generation electric models. The M350 xDrive prototypes are still camouflaged, so complete production-specification design details have not been revealed.

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The cabin of the new 3 Series is expected to follow the layout introduced with BMW's latest-generation interiors. One of the key elements will be the Panoramic Vision display offering information such as vehicle speed and other driving-related data. A central touchscreen will sit alongside the panoramic display as part of the new infotainment layout.