For about five decades, the 3 Series has set the standard for small luxury sedans. The latest eighth-generation models arrive as bookends: the electric i3 50 xDrive on one side, and the gas-powered M350 xDrive on the other. The two vehicles share a similar exterior and, despite running on different fuels, deliver comparable driving experiences.
The i3 50 xDrive sits on the new Neue Klasse platform. It uses a sixth-generation eDrive powertrain and battery technology. The car also features an 800-volt architecture and the “Heart of Joy” module, which manages road manners. The module is ten times faster than the previous system. The M350 xDrive, meanwhile, uses the older platform but receives a refreshed engine and other updates to keep the two models aligned.
The road manners reveal both similarities and distinct differences. Both cars offer sharp handling and precise steering, hallmarks of any BMW sedan. The M350 xDrive is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup adds 30 pound-feet of torque to smooth out idle stop-start functions and mask turbo lag. The engine produces 437 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. With an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive, the M350 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.
Drivers can choose between Personal, M Sport, and M Sport+ modes. Within these, settings for the engine and steering can be adjusted for Comfort, Sport, or Sport+. Comfort mode suits city driving. M Sport is better for open roads. M Sport+ provides aggressive, rev-matched downshifts for twisty roads. The system performs well, keeping the car composed even when pushed to its limits.
The i3 50 xDrive features two electric motors that generate 463 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque. It uses an all-wheel-drive system. The power delivery is instant, allowing the car to reach 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. BMW Canada estimates the i3’s range at 750 km. The drive test showed the car capable of meeting this figure. Starting with a full 108.7-kWh battery, the i3 50 displayed a range of 735 km. After driving 198 km, the battery level dropped to 73%, leaving 515 km of range. The actual range fell short by only 22 km.
This efficiency comes from the regenerative braking strategy. The system offers Adaptive, Low, Moderate, and High levels. Selecting High regen and engaging B mode on the shifter allows for one-pedal driving. The car slows to a halt when the accelerator is released. The experience is described as sorted and easy to enjoy.
The key distinction lies in how power is applied. The i3 provides instant electric torque off the line, while the M350 offers a silky mid-range pull from its turbo engine. The M350 is also around 350 kg lighter, which helps explain its acceleration advantage over the electric model.
Both cars offer comfortable rides and superior handling, even with the added weight of the i3. The steering feels perfectly weighted and provides a rewarding heft. It holds the driver’s line through corners with precision. A co-driver noted that both vehicles are “easy” to drive, even near their limits.
Inside the New Cabin
The interior design of the new 3 Series takes a different approach to luxury. Ambient lighting illuminates the cabin and shines through a porous mesh covering parts of the dashboard.
BMW has eliminated traditional gauges behind the steering wheel. All information now appears on the 55-millimeter-tall Panoramic Vision screen at the base of the windshield. The screen displays basic instrumentation on the left side and customizable widgets on the right. These widgets can be moved from the main infotainment screen to the panoramic screen using gestures.
The main 17.9-inch iDrive touchscreen runs the latest X system. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Controls are accessible via the touchscreen, voice commands, or a touch-pad on the right side of the steering wheel. Maps and frequently used menus appear in the center, while climate settings sit at the bottom. After a back-to-back drive, operation became second nature.
The head-up display presents a 3D representation of navigation. It uses animated graphics to show speed and direction. The display is large and, at times, can feel overwhelming as it projects the road forward into the driver’s field of vision. However, drivers learn to adapt to the system.
The gap between electric and gasoline power is closing rapidly. Charge times are dropping and driving range is rising. The 10-minute charge on the i3 50 xDrive adds up to 290 km, a significant improvement. For those who travel beyond the city limits frequently, the M350 xDrive offers seamless performance and easier access to “fuel.”
Market Positioning and Pricing
The two new models will arrive at Canadian dealerships in the first quarter of 2027. BMW predicts a likely launch in January of that year, though the exact date is not guaranteed. The i3 50 xDrive will carry a retail price of CDN$74,900 in the Canadian market. This figure slightly undercuts the base price of the M350 xDrive, which will start at CDN$78,500. The lower-trim gas model, the 330 xDrive, will begin at CDN$61,500. This vehicle was not part of the test drive event.
