2027 BMW 3 Series Gasoline Models: No Diesel, Prices Starting at €50,000

New Models New BMW 3 Series with an Internal Combustion Engine

2026-09-30 By Holger Holzer/SP-X | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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BMW will be taking a two-pronged approach to its midsize lineup going forward. Following the all-electric i3 comes the significantly more conventional 3 Series with internal combustion engines—but for the first time in over 40 years, it will not offer a diesel option.

Even the conventional 3 Series features the New Class look.(Image: BMW) — Even the conventional 3 Series features the New Class look.
(Image: BMW)

The BMW i3 is getting a twin with an internal combustion engine. The midsize model will drop the lowercase letter at the beginning of its name and arrive at dealerships in early 2027 as a 3 Series. However, it will not offer a diesel option. Initially, the powertrain lineup will include gasoline engines and plug-in hybrids with power outputs ranging from 115 kW/156 PS to 345 kW/469 PS. Prices start at 50,000 euros ($57,000).

Visually, the 3 Series draws heavily on the i3, with which BMW has established a new brand design. Behind the largely uniform appearance, however, lie two different technical concepts. The i3 utilizes the company’s new vehicle architecture, which is consistently designed for electric propulsion, while the internal-combustion 3 Series continues to be based on a modified version of its predecessor’s platform.

The Differences from the i3

The differences between the platforms are evident in the dimensions and proportions. For example, the overhangs on the internal-combustion engine model are slightly longer, while the wheelbase is shorter for technical reasons. The overall length is nearly identical at 4.77 meters (15 feet 8 inches). When it comes to cargo space, however, the ratio is reversed: The conventional 3 Series offers 450 liters (15.9 cubic feet) of trunk space, which is slightly more than the i3, which features an extra compartment under the hood.

In the cockpit, BMW is striving to make the technical distinction as imperceptible as possible. Even the internal-combustion models feature the new design language as well as “Panoramic iDrive” with a large central display. As with the i3, the new BMW Operating System X serves as the operating system. However, the four so-called “Superbrain” high-performance computers for driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and comfort features remain exclusive to the electric model.

Driver-Assistance Systems Are Set to Be Expanded in 2027

The “Driving Assistant Plus” is one of the standard driver-assistance systems. It regulates speed and following distance and assists with lane-keeping. An optional highway assistant is available, which enables hands-free driving up to 130 km/h (81 mph) in Germany and numerous other countries, including automated lane changes after visual confirmation and navigation-guided highway interchanges. Starting in 2027, semi-automated functions for city driving are also set to be introduced.

The range of powertrains will still be relatively limited when orders open at the end of September, but it already covers a broad spectrum of power outputs. Among the internal combustion engines, two 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology serve as the entry-level models: The BMW 318 delivers 115 kW/156 PS, while the BMW 320 produces 155 kW/211 PS. Both transmit their power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Above them sits the M350 xDrive with a 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, also equipped with mild hybrid technology, delivering 326 kW/443 PS and paired with all-wheel drive.

Gallery

Compared to the electric 3 Series model, the internal-combustion engine version has a shorter wheelbase and longer overhangs.(Source: BMW)

The 3 Series also features the "New Class" style on the inside.(Source: BMW)

In addition to the conventional model, there is the electric i3 (on the right).(Source: BMW)

Similarities to the Mercedes C-Class

With this dual strategy, BMW is following a similar path to that of its main competitor, Mercedes. There, too, the new electric C-Class is being launched alongside the technically advanced C-Class with an internal combustion engine. Mercedes describes the redesign of the classic model as the most comprehensive technical upgrade of the series to date.

The split allows both manufacturers to continue using existing internal combustion engine technology while also taking full advantage of an architecture developed specifically for electric cars. The trade-off is two cars that are technically quite different, yet share largely the same model name and design.

The Bavarian car manufacturer BMW was pushed from second place in new electric car registrations in Germany, including models like the i4, during the first quarter. Now it has managed to reclaim its spot... (Image: BMW)

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