What we know so far!
Although details are sparse, spy shots revealed the next-gen 3 Series giving its all recently at the Nurburgring. In looking closely at this M Performance version, no longer called the M340i, but rather the M350, we do see quite large wheels for a non-M3, as well as the quad exhaust tips.
Getting right down to the brass tacks – under hood, it is expected that the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six will produce a nice and healthy 417 horsepower, with the incoming M350 having a 31-hp advantage over the M340i that is sold in the U.S. That is if sources are accurate in releasing this hint. In addition, it would be an extra 48 hp compared to the M340i available in Europe.
Unlike the current 3-Series, this next-gen model will be available with a choice of electric and combustion power. It is believed to retain the current CLAR architecture, although dressed up with NK design cues.
What is unclear at this point is if the M350 will utilize the same iteration of the B58 worldwide. If not, BMW could in fact once again detune the straight-six in the European Union to comply with the stricter emissions regulation. What we do know, however, is that the xDrive is a given, although the rear-wheel-drive configuration could survive in some markets.
The M350 will be one of several variants available when the eighth-generation 3-Series is debuted. The Dingolfing plant in Germany will assemble the G50 from November of 2026 until late 2034.
We also know that its interior style is expected to echo that of the i3, which, based on what BMW has shown us on various concepts over the past couple of years, results in a fully customizable pillar-to–pillar head-up display as opposed to a traditional guage pack. There will also be a more conventional tablet touch screen fixed to the center of the dash.
In other design hints, BMW did not fit the M350 test vehicle with M-specific mirrors, but that could change once it reaches production. In addition, the suspension seems to be bouncing more than expected on a sportier version of the 3 Series.
As far as the engine’s soundtrack, it comes from an evolution of the B58, with the turbocharged 3.0-liter finally entering the 400-horsepower realm.
It will be tested at the Nurburgring, with two different ICE-powered prototypes spied lapping, and is scheduled to debut in 2026 for the 2027 model year.
While not too much has been revealed, the excitement is surely building for the M350. From M Performance all-out power to a design overhaul, much is expected and much is anticipated. Showing its stuff and proud of it. Keep your eyes out for this next-gen model!