BMW announced a 2023 model refresh of its uber-popular 3 Series lineup, with mild exterior updates, and a completely reworked interior!
Ever since it went on sale in the 70s, the 3-series has been the cash cow for the Munich-based automaker for decades, until the SUVs took away the throne in recent years. The preceding model alone sold over 1.1 million units since 2019, posting its highest sales figures against previous generations. Echoing the verdict of the masses, the brand maintained the classy proportions of the G20, albeit with some 2022 design additions, a hybrid powertrain, and a new curved display.
First up is the design. The 2023 3 Series features a stunning front fascia, keeping the elegant kidney grille and a set of slimmer headlights, which look quite pleasing to the eye. Luckily, it didn’t receive M3‘s and M4‘s huge vertical kidney grilles, though the next-gen model perhaps won’t have that fortune.
Furthermore, a hexagonal radiator opening with honeycomb elements and inverted L-shaped air curtains elevates the styling further. Over to the sides, the sporty stance is quite reminiscent of the M-series beasts, with muscular body lines, a set of 18- or 19-inch spoked rims, and blue calipers. Finally, a sleek set of taillights and a twin-peak bumper design exemplify the purposeful stance.
Going a step further, customers can opt for the M-Sport package on the 330i and 330e models, including cosmetic enhancements, such as chrome accents on the grille, an M-specific rear apron with reflectors, trapezoidal tailpipes, and a body-colored rear spoiler. In addition, the newest M340i models will also sport the classic BMW motorsport roundels on the hood, trunk, and wheel center caps as an ode to the first racing cars from 1973.
Apart from cosmetic enhancements, the M-Sport package also adds 19-inch 791M alloys with all-season tires and pairs it with M-Sport Suspension for sweet handling performance. Furthermore, BMW also offers an Adaptive M Suspension with electronic damping specifically for the 330i.
BMW hooked the new 2023 3 Series to two powertrain variants, namely, the 2.0-liter TwinPower four-cylinder turbo petrol and the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-6 with a 48V mild hybrid system. The entry-level engine is reserved for the 330i and the 330e, with the latter adding an extra electric motor and a charging port for a plug-in hybrid experience.
Meanwhile, the flagship turbo i6 powers M-Sport models like the M340i — now standard with a mild hybrid system for efficient start-stop performance, power boost, and improved fuel economy. All variants are also available with the xDrive AWD system and an 8-speed torque converter automatic tranny by default. So long, stick shift (another one bites the dust).
BMW also upgraded the interior of the 2023 3 Series with a handful of tech and creature comforts. The biggest showpiece of the cabin is the latest curved display combining a 12.9-inch driver’s cockpit and a massive 14.9-inch infotainment system into one glassy frame. The intuitive UI offers a deep configuration with different display styles, color palettes, and easy-to-read font.
In addition, it also carries BMW’s new maps and a voice assistant for navigation and controlling the car’s various functions. Meanwhile, an open-pore wood trim, leather upholstery, and sleek-looking center console sum up the interior highlights.
The refreshed 2023 3 Series is slated for a global roll-out from July 2022, beginning with Europe. BMW also confirmed that the mid-size sedan would be manufactured for America in its new plant at San Luis Potosi, Mexico.
Stay tuned for pricing and other information!
Gallery: 2023 BMW 3 Series
