2026 BMW 3-Series Review

2026 BMW 3-Series – Overview

While it may not capture quite the same magic as earlier generations, the 2026 BMW 3-Series still evokes the spirit that made the nameplate legendary—while staying firmly rooted in the modern era. Interior fit and finish remain excellent, highlighted by BMW’s crisp 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The list of standard features isn’t as generous as some rivals, but that shortcoming is easy to forgive once you get behind the wheel.

Now in its seventh generation, the 3 Series delivers composed, precise handling in virtually any driving situation. Buyers can choose between the 330i’s 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or the M340i’s 386-hp turbocharged inline-six, both of which provide smooth, effortless performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

Expert Tip: Enthusiasts haven’t been forgotten—BMW still offers a manual transmission in the twin-turbo BMW M3, which is reviewed separately.

When Is the 2026 BMW 3-Series Coming Out?

The 2026 BMW 3-Series is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in late 2025, with ordering opening a few months earlier. Initial availability will focus on core trims, with performance-oriented variants following shortly after launch.

What’s New for 2026 BMW 3-Series?

BMW keeps the seventh-generation 3 Series largely unchanged for the 2026 model year as it prepares to roll out an all-new eighth-generation model in the near future. As a result, the current 3 Series carries over without significant updates.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Pricing for the 2026 BMW 3-Series starts at $48,675 and climbs to $64,875, depending on trim level and optional equipment.

A rear-drive 330i would suit us just fine with a few options. First, we’d select the M Sport bundle, as it opens the door to the adaptive M suspension (which we’d spec). Then we’d add the Driver Assistance package to unlock adaptive cruise control, as well as the Convenience pack to get niceties such as a heated steering wheel, parking sensors, a power trunklid, and blind-spot monitoring.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

• Engines: 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 386-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive

The 2026 BMW 3-Series offers two lively gas engines, each boosted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The 330i comes with a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the M340i packs a 386-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Both engines are paired with an exceptionally smooth and intuitive 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available for those who want extra traction, but a manual gearbox is no longer offered.

BMW provides multiple suspension options for the 330i, with the adaptive setup standing out for its ability to fine-tune the car’s driving dynamics. The four-cylinder model has already proven its versatility, excelling in comparison tests against other sports sedans and effortlessly shifting from composed cruiser to agile canyon carver.

Our long-term M340i reinforced the 3 Series’ reputation with its potent six-cylinder engine and impressive body control, delivering an exhilarating yet controlled driving experience.

0–60-MPH Times

• C/D 60-mph Tests: 5.2 seconds (330i xDrive), 3.7 seconds (M340i xDrive)

At our test track, the M340i xDrive sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds, while the 330i xDrive reached the same speed in a respectable 5.2 seconds. Both models outperform many competitors, often by small but noticeable margins, underscoring the 3 Series’ strong performance credentials.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

• C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Tests: 42 mpg (330i RWD), 33 mpg (M340i xDrive)
• EPA City Ratings: 26–28 mpg
• EPA Highway Ratings: 33–35 mpg

While the EPA hasn’t yet released official fuel-economy figures for the 2026 BMW 3-Series, expectations remain similar to the 2025 model. The 330i RWD earned EPA estimates of 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, yet impressed in our 75-mph highway test with a remarkable 42 mpg. Switching to all-wheel drive typically reduces efficiency by 1–2 mpg.

The M340i, with its turbocharged six-cylinder, posts EPA ratings of 26–27 mpg city (depending on drivetrain) and 33 mpg highway. On the highway, the xDrive M340i delivered real-world fuel economy closely matching EPA estimates. For the latest official figures, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

First Row: The 2026 BMW 3-Series boasts a modern, meticulously assembled cabin with high-quality materials throughout. Nothing feels cheap, and all controls are intuitively placed. Standard sport seats wrapped in leatherette provide excellent support, generous bolstering, adjustability, and built-in heaters, making it easy to get comfortable on any drive.

Second Row: The rear seats comfortably accommodate two adults, as long as they don’t need to stretch out their legs. Families with young children will find it easy to install child seats, though rear-facing seats can limit first-row seat adjustment.

Cargo Capacity: The 3 Series offers 17 cubic feet of trunk space, enough to fit six carry-on bags. Folding the rear seats expands total capacity by another 11 cubic feet, bringing the total to 28 cubic feet. A power-operated trunk lid is available as an option for added convenience.

Infotainment and Connectivity

• Infotainment: 14.9-inch touchscreen
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Audio Systems: 10-speaker stereo (standard), 16-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo (optional)

The 2026 BMW 3-Series features a high-resolution 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster paired with a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen seamlessly integrated behind a single pane of glass. The display looks modern and sharp, while iDrive 8.5 software is responsive and intuitive. For those who prefer, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be accessed wirelessly.

Additional tech includes SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless smartphone charging. Optional upgrades such as a head-up display and a 16-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system enhance both convenience and entertainment.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

BMW keeps the standard driver-assistance suite relatively basic on the 2026 3 Series.

• Standard Safety Features: Automated emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keeping assist
• Optional Safety Features: Blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control

For detailed crash-test ratings and safety scores, refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW’s warranty coverage for the 2026 3 Series is competitive with rivals like Audi and Mercedes-AMG, and it offers a longer complimentary maintenance period than many German competitors.

• Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Complimentary Maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles

2026 BMW 3-Series Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2026 BMW 3-Series proves that evolution can be just as effective as reinvention. With refined technology, engaging performance, and a premium interior, it continues to set the standard for luxury sport sedans. While rivals may offer flashier designs or lower prices, few can match the 3-Series’ balance of comfort and driving enjoyment.

2026 BMW 3-Series Video