BMW G50 3 Series Launches with M350 xDrive and 320 Variants
BMW has unveiled the eighth-generation 3 Series, the G50, featuring a 443 hp M350 xDrive and a 211 hp 320 variant, with UK sales starting in January.
BMW has launched the eighth-generation 3 Series, designated the G50 model. The new car, built on the CLAR II platform as part of the broader Neue Klasse family, will be available in the UK with petrol 320 and M350 xDrive variants alongside electric i3 models. This completes the model line's rollout following the earlier debut of the electric version.
Model Details
The G50 3 Series introduces a more athletic stance with a longer bonnet and wider tracks front and rear. Its overall length grows by 5.2 centimetres to 4.76 metres, while the wheelbase measures 2.88 metres. The cabin is dominated by a new 17.9-inch curved central display and a panoramic head-up display. Physical buttons are reduced, with the interface controlled by the latest BMW OS X software, which is based on the Android operating system. Revised steering is fitted for a more direct feel.
Powertrains
The launch introduces two distinct petrol engines, both assisted by mild-hybrid technology. The entry point is the 320, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit producing 208 cv (211hp). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 240 km/h.
The performance flagship is the M350 xDrive, which replaces the outgoing M340i xDrive. It uses a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup generates 443 cv (443hp) and 428 lb ft of torque, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Variable sport steering is standard.
| Variant | Engine | Power | 0-100 km/h | Top Speed | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 2.0L Turbo I4 Mild Hybrid | 208 cv (211hp) | 7.4 seconds | 240 km/h | Entry-level petrol |
| M350 xDrive | 3.0L Turbo I6 48V Mild Hybrid | 443 cv (443hp) | 4.1 seconds | Not stated | Drift Moment function, xDrive AWD |
The M350 xDrive can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. A notable performance feature is the 'Drift Moment' function, which can disengage the front axle to send 100% of the power to the rear wheels.
Variants and Availability
Beyond the launch models, BMW has confirmed a lower-powered 318 variant with 154 cv for European markets. Plug-in hybrid versions are also planned for the future. Production of the combustion-engined G50 3 Series will take place at the Dingolfing plant, while the electric i3 continues to be built in Munich.
The new 3 Series is scheduled to arrive with customers in January. In the UK, pricing will start from £44,975 for the 320 and £66,785 for the M350 xDrive. The G50 3 Series arrives in January.
