Yahoo Autos BMW 3-Series Spied with Neue Klasse Styling and Gas Engine
The next-generation BMW 3-series sedan has been spied testing in Munich, with styling that clearly takes after the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept.
The test mule displays quad exhaust pipes, confirming a new generation of gas-powered 3-series sedans will run alongside the i3 EV.
We expect to see the electric 3-series join the lineup alongside the ICE variants as early as the 2026 model year.
New spy photos show that BMW is testing the next-generation 3-series sedan with an internal-combustion powertrain. Along with allaying any fears of BMW doing away with the ICE 3-series, the spy photos showcase drastic styling changes that remind us of the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept.
The current-generation 3-series was first introduced for the 2019 model year and has been updated twice—once for 2023 and again for 2025. The camouflaged test mule shows what is clearly a new generation of the storied BMW. It has new headlights and what looks to be the return of a slimmer kidney grille. The rear features a small set of high-mounted tail lights and quad exhaust tips, which confirm its gas-burning engine.
The prototype's shape is reminiscent of the Vision Neue Klasse. It has the same narrow roof pillars and long windows that exaggerate the size of the car's greenhouse. The test mule has a more traditional-looking hood too and does away with the rakish version displayed on the concept. Unlike the concept, which featured no door handles, the spy photos show the sedan with flush-mounted handles.
It's not yet clear when the 3-series' new generation will enter production, but we expect both the ICE and EV variants will arrive for the 2026 model year. Power for the traditional 3-series will likely be carried over from the current generation, which means the 2.0-liter turbo four and turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six should return.
With BMW likely working to meet stricter emissions regulations, the new generation could also see the now-defunct 330e plug-in-hybrid model return. BMW executives previously noted that a production version of the Neue Klasse EV would feature an 800-volt architecture, and its batteries would offer 20 percent higher energy density, in addition to new software that will improve the driving range by 30 percent.
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