Peter Lyon
March 16, 2025
The next-generation 3-Series will arrive with a fully electric powertrain that employs upgraded tech delivering greater range. That’s not surprising really because going electric these days seems like a pre-requisite to survival in the car industry, and the latest BMW 3 Series is doing just that.
Ahead of its 2026 launch, the new 3 Series EV saloon has started testing, and that’s good because it will have to compete with vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and the future Mercedes CLA.
New 3-Series EV To Be Built On Gen6 Platform
In comparison to BMW’s current electric vehicles, the new 3 Series will be built on enhanced technology centred around a new chassis known as the Gen6 platform, which promises longer range, increased efficiency, and reduced prices. Although exact numbers are still sketchy, the new CLA is expected to boast range of up to 440 miles and cost around £45,000.
Although precise numbers have not yet been announced, the new 3 Series should rank among the fastest-charging vehicles currently on the market thanks to its 800V technology.
One major modification with the new 3 Series will be design. Yes, the new model will look a lot different to its predecessor, especially the i3 hatchback, although it is expected that the i3 badge will remain in the lineup.
The new 3 Series, which you see above, is based on the Neue Klasse concept, which was introduced in 2023. As you’d expect, it features two signature kidney-shaped grilles that span the width of the front bumper and will envelope sensors for the vehicle’s driving assistance systems.
The Neue Klasse concept employed a tech-focused dash design that ejected physical controls, including the iDrive rotary wheel considered a highlight on other models. In stead it was equipped with haptic steering-wheel controls, a full-width head-up display, and a central touchscreen. It is also fitted with a squared-off steering wheel and a floating centre console, with a slot for wireless phone charging.
To be honest, there are some controls that we think would work better and be more intuitive if they were physical controls rather than on a touchscreen, like the new iDrive system with its snazzy graphics. Like the 4 Series and 5 Series, the new 3 Series will be offered with both electric and ICE engine versions.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Given that the new 3-Series EV will arrive with a totally new powertrain with better range and a new interior, we think it’s fitting for the iconic BMW wo employ a totally new futuristic design too. Just how much of that concept designers will tone down however remains to be seen.
