Amit Saraswat 
Scheduled for production to begin in July, the new 3 Series will hit dealerships with a starting price of GBP 39,045 for the 320i saloon and GBP 40,845 for the 320i Touring estate. The 330e PHEV starts at GBP 46,080, while the high-performance M340i comes in at GBP 57,810. Notably, diesel options will be absent from the UK lineup.
A key highlight is the upgraded battery pack for the PHEV models. The new 19.5kWh battery boasts a 7.5kWh increase over the previous version, translating to a significantly longer electric-only range of 101 km. While this falls short of the rival Mercedes-Benz C300e’s 114 km range, it’s a substantial improvement over the earlier 3 Series PHEV and keeps the car within the favourable 8% benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax band in the UK.
The battery can be charged at up to 11kW, achieving a full charge in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The PHEV powertrain combines the electric motor with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, producing a combined output of 300PS, a slight increase of 8PS from before.
For those seeking a traditional gasoline option, the 320i features a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 183PS and a 0-100kmph acceleration time of 7.4 seconds. The top performer remains the M340i, equipped with a 3.0-liter straight-six engine that benefits from a 48V mild-hybrid system. This setup generates 376PS and 500 Nmof torque, propelling the car from 0-100kmph in a brisk 4.4 seconds.
BMW engineers focused on enhancing ride comfort without compromising handling. This includes revised suspension components like stiffer rear damper mounts and faster-responding steering. Additionally, customers can opt for upgraded adaptive dampers for a more personalised driving experience. Weight reduction remains a priority, with components like the bonnet, front wheel arches, engine subframe, and front spring struts constructed from aluminium. However, BMW hasn’t yet revealed the overall weight figure for the new 3 Series.
Visually, the changes are relatively minor. The exterior features a cleaner and more aerodynamic front bumper, redesigned side skirts, and new 19-inch alloy wheel options. The colour palette expands with nine new paint finishes.
The interior adopts a minimalist approach, prioritising a clean and uncluttered layout. This translates to a reduction in physical buttons, with functions like heated seats and steering wheel now controlled through the central 14.9-inch touchscreen. This display runs the latest iteration of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, featuring a customizable widget bar for quick access to frequently used functions. Integration with the MyBMW app allows for remote vehicle control and features like augmented reality navigation.
Material options receive an upgrade as well, with various trim pieces like the iDrive controller, ignition button, and gear selector now available in a sophisticated glass finish. New sports steering wheel and air vent designs borrowed from the larger 5 Series and 7 Series further elevate the cabin’s ambience.
Ambient lighting gets an upgrade as well, with the ability to subtly notify drivers of incoming phone calls or open doors. M Sport seats upholstered in Perforated Sensatec come standard on the M340i and the new M3, while optional on other trims. Several new interior trim options round out the personalization possibilities, including dark graphite matt, grey blue ash wood, and carbon fibre and aluminium inserts.
The refreshed 2024 BMW 3 Series offers a compelling blend of extended electric range for PHEV models, a technologically advanced interior, and a subtly updated design. It is poised to maintain its position as a leader in the premium sports sedan segment.
