New BMW 3 Series lands in SA in 2027, but where’s the 320d?
Here it is. The eighth-generation BMW 3 Series, codenamed G50, has finally shown its face in full production form, and it carries the Neue Klasse look we fell for on the i3.
It’s a handsome thing, and I’d say the cleanest BMW shape in years. Not everyone will agree, obviously. Recent BMW design has a habit of starting heated debates, and I doubt this one gets a pass. Anyway, the design actually works as it’s reminiscent of the boxy shape of the popular E30 with a longer wheelbase, short overhangs and sleek surfaces.
Upfront, the kidney grille and headlights merge into one visual unit, which therefore creates a new light signature, while the M Yellow Lights on the M Performance are inspired by the brand’s racing cars. A nice touch indeed. At the back, slim taillights take the centre stage, as well as more pronounced wheel arches that lend it that sporty stance. The wheel sizes range from 19 to 21 inches for the electric i3 and 18 to 20 inches for the ICE-powered models.
BMW also says the M Sport and M Sport Pro packages are available for a more aggressive look. As for the exterior colours, buyers will be able to choose from a range of finishes, including the bespoke M Le Castellet Blue metallic, with more Individual finishes expected to arrive over the course of 2027.
Inside, you get a Neue Klasse-inspired cabin with a cleaner and more minimalist design. The new 3 Series features what BMW calls the Panoramic iDrive, which combines four elements: BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW 3D Head-Up Display, a large 17.9-inch infotainment screen and a new multifunction steering wheel. That’s a lot of screen.
The rest of the list is also impressive. It offers a big panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable seats as standard, optional M Sport seats, and heated rear seats. Music lovers can also upgrade the standard sound system to a Harman Kardon or a surround setup.
Now, to the interesting stuff. The local 3 Series range kicks off with three derivatives: the 320, the M350 xDrive and the fully electric i3 50 xDrive. Notice what’s missing. There’s no 320d, and BMW hasn’t said whether it’s coming later or whether it’s been formally retired. We’re hoping for the former, because losing it would leave a void in a range that local buyers have leaned on for years.
The 320 has dropped the “i” because BMW says it’s too easy to confuse with the electric models. Fair enough. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbo four with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, rated at 155kW and 330Nm. BMW claims 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds and a limiter at 240km/h, with an 8-speed Steptronic handling transmission duties. It’s a sensible option and probably the one most local buyers will end up with.
The M350 xDrive, on the other hand, has big shoes to fill as it replaces the formidable M340i xDrive. It retains the same B58 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbopetrol engine but pairs it with a 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an e-motor integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The total power output climbs from the M340i’s 285kW and 500Nm to 326kW and 580Nm, while the 0-100km/h figure also drops by 0.2 seconds to 4.1 seconds. Extra electric oomph on top of an engine we already rate highly is a promising formula, and we’ll hold our verdict until we’ve driven it.
On the electric side, the i3 50 xDrive mounts an e-motor on each axle for a total power output of 345kW and 645Nm. Powering these is a 108.7kWh high-voltage battery pack that allows the electric saloon to travel up to 912km between chargers. If it gets anywhere near that range in real-world driving, it could be the best EV to ever land in SA. According to BMW, the i3 can sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds before maxing out at a top speed of 200km/h.
Want a more dynamic i3? Well, BMW says an M60 xDrive M Performance will join the global range sometime in 2027, with local availability to be confirmed.
The new BMW 3 Series is set to arrive in SA from the first quarter of 2027. BMW deserves credit for sticking with what works, especially in SA, where the sedan is under constant pressure. The 3 Series has long been the go-to option for buyers who’d still rather have a sedan than another SUV, and it’s good to see that hasn’t changed. BMW, just don’t let the 320d fade away, as we’re not ready to say goodbye.
