BMW has yanked the curtain off their latest 3 Series sedan, boasting an updated appearance and a suite of improvements.

Having seen its most recent redesign for 2019, this updated 3 Series builds on the seventh generation’s impressive success, continuing to offer a variety of powertrain and trim options. 

Starting the list of powertrains is the familiar 2-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder, found inside the 330i; the 330e incorporates a plug-in hybrid system to up efficiency. The 3-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine is standard in the M340i, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Each engine sends power through an 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission; xDrive all-wheel drive is also available on each model.

New styling for all models include sportier front and rear fascias, the former housing an updated and bolder version of BMW’s kidney grille and twin-headlight accents. Those slimmed-down headlights are LED standard, surrounded by “inverted-L” daytime runners. The air intakes below the grille are functional, directing air to cool the front brakes. 

All 3 Series’ will ride on standard 18-inch alloy wheels; however, additional styles-- including the special 19-inch alloy wheels included with the M Sport package are available. This special upgrade also adds chrome grille accents, a central air intake, recessed air curtains, a rear diffuser element, and various apron revisions front and back. M Sport is built with variable sport steering, M Sport suspension, and various interior enhancements-- like an M leather wheel.

The M340i, including xDrive variants, will sport enlarged air intakes and more aerodynamic features. Other changes include a mesh-design front grille, trapezoidal tailpipes, and an M rear spoiler; standard 18-inch wheels can be swapped for 19-inchers. And to mark BMW M GmbH’s 50 year anniversary, 2023 M340i models will be offered with classic BMW Motorsport roundels on the hood, trunk, and wheel center caps.

The cockpit is headlined by a new BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8 system, utilizing touchscreen and voice controls to limit the number of physical controls in the cockpit. Drivers benefit from a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, blending with the 14.9-inch infotainment screen. Central air vents have been slimmed down and relocated, with standard three-zone automatic climate control being adjustable via voice commands or touchscreen controls.

The BMW 3 Series can be expected to arrive in dealerships this summer, with U.S. vehicles built in BMW’s newest plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico.

We’ll have more to say about the new BMW 3 Series soon on MotorWeek!