2025 BMW 3 Series Overview
The current iteration of the BMW 3 Series is not a bad car by any stretch of the imagination, but it used to be a great car. A faction of Beemer enthusiasts are still longing for qualities found in past versions like the E30, E46, and E90. It seems like decades of greatness would be easy to iterate and improve year after year, but the pieces don’t always come together the way they look on paper or in computer simulation. If legends could be engineered at will, we wouldn’t be here longing for what once was.
The 3 Series keeps getting more powerful, and the performance improves as far as pure data points go; however, it’s still missing something. Even without a ground-up redesign, the 2025 BMW 3 Series has the potential to bring some of the magic of those older chassis back without hiding its shortcomings behind more power.
OK BMW, You Have Our Attention
What would a refreshed BMW be without some extra glitz and glamour? This year’s model has that, and we’re more interested in what can make the 3 Series a great car. The two available 48-volt mild hybrid powertrains aren’t changing much. The 330i and 330i xDrive come with the B48 2.0-liter turbo I-4, still making 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It employs Miller cycle combustion, with redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers.
A few more ponies (four) get added to the turbo I-6’s stable, putting 386 hp under the hoods of the M340i and M340i xDrive, while torque creeps up to 398 lb-ft. The 48-volt starter-generator is available for an on-demand boost of 11 hp via the column-mounted paddle shifters. Eight-speed transmissions transfer torque to the rear wheels or all four on xDrive models, with the M340i providing a sportier feel, thanks to the Drivelogic shift logic.
What the current 3 Series lacks is exceptional road feel, and those criticisms have seemingly not gone unnoticed by BMW. There are numerous claims in BMW’s press material, such as increased comfort without dynamic loss, more precise handling, composure, and controllability. These terms will need real-world testing; however, BMW specifically noted that the damper mounts are stiffer, which could be huge on its own. The chassis can be completely rigid, but any compliance where the road forces directly transfer into it can lead to a less desirable experience.
A minor concern is the supposed reduced steering effort in Comfort mode. Less steering feel isn’t exactly what we’re after. Although BMW has faced criticism for numb steering over the years while refining its electric steering racks, this could be perceived as a step back. Nonetheless, connoisseurs of the slightly less sporty 330i models might appreciate it, as a great chassis can often convey road feel through the seat instead.
New Digs
Now, with the new 3 Series proposing meaningful updates to the chassis, we can also focus on some of the new aesthetic touches. Two new exterior colors debut for 2025: Arctic Race Blue metallic and Vegas Red metallic. Additionally, Frozen Pure Grey metallic and Frozen Portimao Blue metallic are available as BMW Individual shades for extra customization.
The M Sport package introduces new 19-inch M double-spoke alloy wheels, available in a two-tone or Jet Black finish. This package is optional for the 330i models and standard on M340i models. Furthermore, a new two-tone 19-inch Y-spoke wheel is available across all models as part of the BMW Individual offerings.
Moreover, steering wheels are receiving a design update as well. The 330i models feature a two-spoke design with a polygonal rim, allowing for multiple grip positions without committing to a fully flat-bottomed wheel. M340i models, or M Sport-equipped 330i models, come equipped with a new three-spoke, flat-bottomed M steering wheel, akin to the one found in the 5 Series.
Interior lighting enhancements introduce cascaded illumination around newly designed central air conditioning vents, with nine available colors. The interior lighting function extends to entry and exit animations, signaling phone calls, or alerting to open doors, among other scenarios. New trim options elevate the visual appeal within the 330i and M340i models, featuring options like Fineline Light open-pored wood, M Aluminum Rhombicle, and a Galvanic finish for added sophistication.
Let’s Talk About Tech
The latest BMW 3 Series will ship with BMW iDrive and QuickSelect, now based on BMW Operating System 8.5. The QuickSelect function features horizontally scrolling widgets for easy access to vehicle settings. Enhanced voice controls simplify the operation of media and climate controls. Optional BMW Live Cockpit Plus upgrades introduce a head-up display and the innovative Augmented View to the digital cluster, assisting with navigation through real-time front camera views.
We Like What We See
While the new 3 Series may not be groundbreaking, it certainly shows promise, especially in the M340i variant. It remains one of the better sport sedans available; therefore, any attempt to enhance it—specifically through chassis tweaks—is welcome. The technology keeps it modern and aligns with BMW’s latest offerings, while the new materials, colors, and options can help personalize your 3 Series. Global production is set to start in July, with North American production commencing in August. The 330i is expected to start at $46,675, while the M340i is anticipated at $60,675, and all-wheel-drive xDrive models will carry a $2,000 premium.
