In the age of downsizing, BMW dares to be different. It has already confirmed a six -cylinder engine for the next generation M3 (G84), and we have good authority. There will be another taste with an inline six. Today’s M340i will make a new M -Performance version, which is renamed as a M350. A prototype of the smaller M version was tested in the Nürburgring. It may show a quad exhaust, but do not make a mistake, this is not the full M3.
The sound you hear probably comes from a development of the B58 engine. BMW refines the 3.0-liter inline-SIX from Turbo in order to meet the upcoming euro 7 emission standard. We suspect that it will sound more aggressive in North America, where noise and emission regulations are more relaxed. To be honest, the tire noise is clearer than the engine’s soundtrack, but it is too early to assess the M350. This is still a prototype with non -matching wheels and everything.
It is difficult to say whether the new 3 Series (Codename G50) will be larger, but it certainly gives the impression of making itself in a good way. Yes, it seems on the heavier side. In terms of power, our sources say that BMW could target 417 hp, which would be more than the Euro Spec version compared to the M340i and 48 hp sold in North America.
It is expected that XDrive is standard, although we still have hope for an option in the rear wheel drive. If it returns, you can expect that it is only offered in selected markets, probably also in the USA. Unfortunately, do not count on a manual transmission. It is on the street that the G50 could be the first 3 series without clutch pedal. Even the next M3 could only be automatic and possibly only offered with all -wheel drive.
The M350 is the first top dog in the next 3 series line -up. Production for the G50 begins in November 2026, so an official premiere is probably just over a year away. The new M3 was to follow in July 2028, which means that its debut is still about two years. The next generation is rumored to roll out the assembly line in Dingolfing. If it is exactly, it would be the first 3 Series to not be built in Munich. The historical plant will only produce EVS from 2027.
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