BMW unveils new petrol 3 Series for South African market — TimesLIVE
BMW has unveiled a new petrol-powered 3 Series, which is planned to be launched in South Africa in the first quarter of 2027. The fully electric BMW i3 50 xDrive will debut in the country at the same time. As TimesLIVE reports, the 320 and M350 xDrive versions will be available at launch.
Design and equipment
The petrol 3 Series has adopted the Neue Klasse design language, also used by the electric i3. Its features include a new interpretation of BMW’s signature kidney grille, twin headlights, an extended wheelbase, short overhangs and expressive body surfaces. The model will be offered with alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches, as well as M Sport and M Sport Pro packages.
The cabin features the BMW Panoramic iDrive system, which extends along the lower section of the windscreen and displays key information within the driver’s field of vision. It runs on BMW OS X and is complemented by a 17.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Options include a 3D head-up display, M Sport seats, heated rear seats and two Harman Kardon audio systems.
Version specifications
The flagship M350 xDrive is equipped with a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Combined output is 326 kW and 580 Nm. The car has an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive, accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, and has a top speed limited to 250 km/h. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 8.2 litres per 100 km.
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The 320 version uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Its combined output reaches 155 kW, while torque is 330 Nm. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 7.4 seconds, top speed is 240 km/h, and claimed fuel consumption is 7.5 litres per 100 km.
Chassis and the electric i3
The new 3 Series has a double-joint spring strut front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. The M350 xDrive is fitted with adaptive M suspension, an M Sport differential and variable sport steering. This version will also receive the Drift Moment function: via the central display, it allows engine torque to be directed solely to the rear wheels for a controlled drift in a suitable environment, including on a racetrack.
The electric i3 50 xDrive will have two electric motors with combined output of 345 kW and torque of 645 Nm. BMW claims acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, a top speed of 200 km/h and a range of up to 912 km under the WLTP cycle thanks to a 108.7 kWh battery. Final specifications and prices for South Africa will be determined closer to the start of sales.
