2027 BMW 3 SeriesMotorTrendAttractive Neue Klasse styling expectedGas, hybrid, and electric variants availableAnticipated return of RWD and AWDCLAR carries over for gas modeli3 gets more loveNo car in the BMW lineup is more representative of the automaker's heritage than the 3 Series, so don't count out the compact luxury sedan just yet. In the wake of the much-hyped BMW i3's announcement, we expect the gasoline versions of the next-generation 3 Series are also on the way.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe G50-gen gas 3 Series won't ride on BMW's KKL architecture like the NA0 i3 but will instead continue to use the CLAR platform like its predecessor, the G20 3 Series. Rivals to the 2027 BMW 3 Series include the Tesla Model 3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Audi A5.What We ThinkThe G20-generation BMW 3 Series was a return to form for the German sport sedan. It remained true to its roots with nimble handling, punchy engines, and a practical four-door form factor.For all of its merit, the 3 Series fell short in other areas. In particular, its standard feature list left us wanting for more equipment. Its interior felt spartan compared to some of its competitors, as well.We're expecting the next-generation G50 3 Series to carry over much of its predecessor's merits, including its mild hybrid and hybrid powertrains. It will benefit from BMW's handsome Neue Klasse styling and the new tech the automaker has employed to models like the i3 and iX3.AdvertisementAdvertisementBMW won't use its new KKL architecture for the upcoming 3 Series; that platform is reserved exclusively for EVs. That's a departure from the strategy BMW has employed with the current 5 and 7 Series models, but sticking with a dedicated internal combustion platform could work to the benefit of the new 3 Series. We'll update this review as more information is made available about the 2027 BMW 3 Series.Top-Ranked Competitors:Genesis G70Mercedes-Benz C-ClassAudi A5Alfa Romeo GiuliaTesla Model 3PerformanceIt's unclear what powertrains will power the 2027 BMW 3 Series. There's a chance BMW could carry over the G20's engines, which includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 or a 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6, with the CLAR platform. Both engines would likely continue to be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or all-wheel drive.The entry-level four-cylinder engine develops 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque in the outgoing G20 3 Series. In that application, RWD models accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. It's quicker than contemporary versions of the Genesis G70 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.AdvertisementAdvertisementHotter versions of the BMW 3 Series receive the six-cylinder powerplant, which develops 386 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. RWD variants launch from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, while AWD examples get the job done in 3.8 seconds.MPG and RangeIf the G50-generation 3 Series arrives with carryover powertrains, fuel economy and range should stay close to the 2026 model's EPA ratings. The existing 2026 BMW 330i is the most fuel-efficient model in the range, at 28/35 mpg city/highway and 484 miles of range. Equipping AWD drops efficiency to 26/34 mpg and range to 452 miles.The hotter 2026 BMW M340i is only slightly less efficient than the 330i. With RWD, the six-cylinder 3 Series returns 27/33 mpg and 452 miles of range. Adding AWD lowers fuel economy to 26/33 mpg, and range stays the same at 452 miles.Safety and Driver AssistsExpect BMW to bring the G50 3 Series to parity with other Neue Klasse models like the iX3 SUV. We suspect the automaker could introduce its Active Driving Assistant Plus system, which combines features such as:AdvertisementAdvertisementFront automatic emergency brakingBlind-spot monitoringSide cross-traffic alertLane keep assistAdaptive cruise controlBMW could make features such as hands-free highway driving and gaze-activated automatic lane changing available, as well.TechnologyWe suspect the 2027 BMW 3 Series will receive the automaker's next-generation infotainment technology as standard equipment. BMW's Panoramic iDrive is a projection display that spans the entire width of the dashboard and pairs with a 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen for navigation, entertainment, and app-based entertainment.Expect BMW to equip wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The automaker's new multifunction steering wheel with backlit, touch-activated buttons could also make an appearance. We anticipate BMW will also equip the 2027 3 Series with an AI-enabled voice assistant, wireless charging, and USB ports.AdvertisementAdvertisementOther tech could include a 3D head-up display with projected navigation prompts and other key driver information.How Much Will the 2027 BMW 3 Series Cost?Expect pricing for the 2027 BMW 3 Series to receive a slight price bump as the automaker adds new tech and features. The current BMW 330i starts around $49,000, so the 2027 model should begin at approximately $50,000.