The Dawn of a New Era for BMW's Iconic Sedan
Unveiling the Combustion-Powered G50: A Brief Glimpse
In a recent official video that primarily highlighted the advancements of the electric i3, BMW strategically included a fleeting preview of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart. This brief appearance, though easily missed, confirmed the existence of the next-generation 3 Series, signaling that BMW remains committed to its gasoline-fueled heritage alongside its electric ambitions.
Distinguishing the G50 from its Electric Sibling: The Quad Exhaust Detail
The most telling feature distinguishing the upcoming 3 Series from the electric i3 was the prominent quad-exhaust system integrated into its rear bumper. This design choice strongly suggests that the model teased is not the fully electric i3 but rather a high-performance M Performance variant, likely a successor to the current M340i. This aligns with BMW's recent trend of equipping M Performance models with quad exhausts.
The M350 Emerges: A Glimpse into Future Naming Conventions and Performance
While an official name has yet to be confirmed, an accidental listing on BMW USA's website hinted at a "2027 M350." This new designation, with its higher numerical value, implies an increase in power output. Furthermore, the omission of the "i" suffix, traditionally associated with fuel injection, signifies BMW's strategic shift to reserve this letter exclusively for its electric vehicle range, streamlining its nomenclature across the lineup.
Powering the Next Generation: Retaining the Six-Cylinder Heart
The eighth-generation 3 Series is expected to continue offering powerful six-cylinder engines in its top-tier configurations. The M350, in particular, is anticipated to feature an evolved version of the well-regarded B58 turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, potentially generating over 400 horsepower. This M Lite derivative is projected to be among the initial launch models, given its early appearance in official communications.
The Future of the M3: Electrification and a Simplified Lineup
Beyond the M Performance models, an all-new M3, codenamed "G84," is also under development. BMW has indicated that this performance icon will retain its six-cylinder engine, with hints of some form of electrification, likely a mild-hybrid system to minimize weight gain, unlike the heavier plug-in hybrid found in the M5. While the next-generation M3 is not expected until 2028, it might arrive with a streamlined offering, potentially featuring only xDrive and an automatic transmission.
Expanding the Horizon: The Potential for an M3 Touring
With the M350 rumored to surpass 500 horsepower, the full-fledged M3 promises an even more exhilarating experience. Excitingly, BMW is also exploring a combustion-powered 3 Series Touring variant, fueling hopes for M-badged wagon models. The possibility of an M3 wagon making its way to the U.S. market, a model previously unavailable in the region, adds further anticipation for performance car enthusiasts.