BMW 3 Series M350 xDrive Driven: 326 kW Six-Cylinder Petrol Sedan

The petrol-powered top version of the new-generation BMW 3 Series, the M350 xDrive, was tested at the company's international launch in Provence, France. According to impressions published by Auto Express and CarExpert, the eighth-generation car shares its styling cues with the electric i3, but the underpinnings are different.

Different platform, same look

The i3 sits on the NAx EV platform and carries the NA0 code. The petrol 3 Series, by contrast, uses a modified version of the CLAR chassis from the previous G20 generation and is known by the code G50. For now there are two petrol versions. The entry-level 320 uses a 2.0-litre engine producing 155 kW and needs 7.4 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

BMW M350 xDrive specifications

The M350 xDrive is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and TwinPower technology, assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 326 kW and 580 Nm of torque. Power reaches all four wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox and an M Sport limited-slip differential. BMW quotes 4.1 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint and 7.5-8.2 litres per 100 km for average fuel consumption. During the test, consumption measured 13.7 litres per 100 km. The car weighs 1,935 kg, has a 59-litre fuel tank, emits 187 g/km of CO2 and meets the Euro 6e standard.

The car measures 4,765 mm long, 1,865 mm wide and 1,455 mm high, with a 2,860 mm wheelbase. Boot capacity is 450 litres.

Cabin and driving

The cabin uses the iDrive Panoramic layout first seen in the i3, with a large central touchscreen, a 3D head-up display and a Panoramic Vision display running along the base of the windscreen. Some drivers may prefer physical buttons for functions such as air conditioning and seat heating, rather than controls on the 17.9-inch iDrive panel. The steering wheel rim is thinner than on previous M models. Rear-seat space is good, but the central tunnel means the car is effectively a four-seater.

On the road, the M350 delivers a firm but unobtrusive ride at city speeds despite its 20-inch wheels. The throttle can be used to control the rear end in a measured way. BMW has announced a Drift Moment function for the M350, arriving in 2027 via a software update. Criticisms from the test included the polarising exterior design, the high price for this level of equipment and some artificial engine sound.

Pricing

According to CarExpert, Australian prices before on-road costs are 83,900 for the 320, 96,900 for the i3 40 xDrive, 112,900 for the i3 50 xDrive and 128,900 for the M350 xDrive, all in Australian dollars.