The new BMW 3 Series with internal combustion engines is approaching the conclusion of its series production development, with the model range currently undergoing final dynamics testing at the BMW Group's test centre in southern France. The facility near Miramas offers the development team access to various track configurations and road surfaces, allowing for detailed analysis of driving behaviour.
Prior to arriving in France, the new 3 Series had already completed testing programmes at the BMW winter testing centre in Arjeplog and on the Nürburgring.
The range-topping internal combustion engine model, designated the BMW M350 xDrive, features a 3,0-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder in-line engine. This power unit incorporates 48-volt mild hybrid technology and delivers a maximum output of 326 kW. Peak torque is rated at 580 Nm, and the engine is paired with an eight-speed BMW Steptronic transmission as standard equipment.
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The BMW M350 xDrive accelerates from standstill to 100 km/hin 4,1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is fitted as standard, along with adaptive M suspension, the M Sport differential and variable sport steering.
The BMW M350 xDrive serves as the dynamic flagship of the internal combustion engine line-up and features specific chassis tuning with improved torsional and vertical stiffness. It is the only variant in the new 3 Series range to be powered by a six-cylinder engine, while other models in the line-up utilise four-cylinder power units, also with 48-volt mild hybrid technology.
A new feature for the BMW M350 xDrive is the Drift Moment function, which can be activated via the Central Display. When engaged, the system sends full engine drive to the rear wheels. This function will be made available during the course of 2027 and will also be activated through Remote Software Upgrade in vehicles already delivered to customers.
The new BMW 3 Series incorporates a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, with wider front and rear tracks contributing to handling characteristics. The chassis features a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle, with anti-roll bar mounts incorporating high preload on both axles.
The standard suspension is equipped with newly developed lift-related dampers, while adaptive suspension and adaptive M suspension are available as options. For the first time, customers can specify sports tyres in 245/35 R20 format for the front and 275/30 R20 for the rear.
All internal combustion engine models in the new 3 Series line-up feature an optimised BMW Driving Stack developed specifically for this drive system type. The transverse dynamics management system integrates agility-related driving functions, including the dynamic all-wheel-drive system. Stabilisation and engine management functions are managed through a network of specialised control units that have been developed over decades.
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BMW EfficientDynamics measures are applied across the vehicle, including the efficient 48-volt electrical system, active air-flap control and the Efficiency Coach, which provides proactive tips for economical driving.
The new BMW 3 Series models with internal combustion engines are scheduled to enter production in the second half of 2026.
The line-up builds on the established chassis concept of the BMW 3 Series, with the engineering focus on weight distribution between the axles and refined handling characteristics. The new generation features an upgraded integrated braking system and adjustments to the steering ratio aimed at precise vehicle control.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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