What's new about the upcoming BMW 3-Series?

Video : Preview of the new generation BMW 3-Series.

After half a century on the market, the BMW 3-Series – the iconic sports sedan of the German car brand – is preparing for the most comprehensive transformation in its history. The new generation, expected to launch in 2026, marks an important turning point when this car line officially splits into two development directions: a version using a traditional internal combustion engine and a fully electric version of the Neue Klasse architecture generation.

BMW has chosen a dual approach to the new 3-Series – keeping the original sporty spirit while embracing the technological values of the future. The petrol-powered version, codenamed G50, will be developed on the improved CLAR platform, while the fully electric i3, codenamed NA0, will use the same Neue Klasse architecture as the upcoming iX3. Despite the technical differences, both variants share a common design language, aiming for a balance between dynamism, minimalism and aerodynamic efficiency.

The new BMW 3-Series is about to be launched, a turning point that will shape the future after half a century.

In terms of appearance, the new generation 3-Series still retains the lines that have made BMW's identity over the past decades. The front end with the characteristic "shark nose" design is now more angular and sporty. The double kidney grille is slimmer, extended to both sides and integrated with modern sensors to serve the advanced driving assistance system.

The body lines are smoothed out, the hidden door handles enhance aerodynamics, while the Hofmeister crease on the C-pillar – a BMW design icon – remains. At the rear, the slim LED light clusters running across the entire rear of the car are reminiscent of the Vision Neue Klasse concept, creating a more modern and seamless look than ever.

In terms of appearance, the new generation 3-Series still retains the lines that have made BMW's identity over the decades.

Stepping into the cockpit, users will easily notice the technological imprint taking center stage. The new BMW 3-Series is equipped with the Panoramic iDrive system - a fully digital screen that spans the entire dashboard, completely replacing the traditional clock cluster. The display layout is divided into three flexible zones, which can be customized according to the driver's habits and needs.

In addition, BMW added a 3D HUD display with dynamic turn instructions, along with an asymmetrically designed central touchscreen, creating a more intuitive and modern experience while still retaining its signature sophistication.

The new BMW 3-Series is equipped with the Panoramic iDrive system – a fully digital screen that spans the entire dashboard, completely replacing the traditional instrument cluster.

Unlike the 5-Series or 7-Series – where BMW combines both gasoline and electric cars on the same platform – the 3-Series and i3 will be developed completely separately. The electric i3 will use the completely new Neue Klasse architecture, integrating the company's most advanced battery and electric motor technology.

Meanwhile, the traditional 3-Series G50 still maintains the CLAR chassis, comes with 2.0L I4 and 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid engine options, improved in performance and fuel economy.

Unlike the 5-Series or 7-Series – where BMW combines both petrol and electric cars on the same platform – the 3-Series and i3 will be developed completely separately.

Even the high-performance BMW M3 variant will not be left out of the electrification trend. Instead of a heavy plug-in hybrid system, the next-generation M3 will use a lighter but more powerful mild-hybrid system, with an expected output exceeding 523 horsepower. In particular, BMW is developing a fully electric version called the iM3 - using four electric motors, producing more than 700 horsepower and near-instantaneous torque.

Some insiders have suggested that the system could reach 1,300 horsepower in special editions, though it’s unlikely to make it to production. However, the power increase will come at a significant cost – the iM3 is estimated to be around 465 kg heavier than the current M3, forcing BMW to equip the car with carbon-ceramic brakes to ensure performance.

According to plan, the electric version of the Neue Klasse generation i3 will be launched in 2025, while the 3-Series G50 using an internal combustion engine will be introduced in 2026.

The current generation of the BMW 3-Series (G20) was launched in 2018 and has undergone two upgrades in 2022 and 2024. According to the plan, the electric version of the i3 Neue Klasse generation will be launched in 2025, while the 3-Series G50 using an internal combustion engine will be introduced in 2026, with the market sale date possibly extending to early 2027.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/bmw-3-series-the-he-moi-sap-ra-mat-co-gi-hay-post2149059629.html