World Debut: The G50 3-Series Is Here!

Lights…Camera…Action!! The wraps are officially off of BMW’s 8th generation premium midsize sedan. Internally referred to as “G50”, the all new 3-series is here and man does it have big shoes to fill. We have only been exposed to the M350 so far as the lower trim 330 has yet to be revealed.

To start, some history. The 3-series for BMW has historically been its more important car; some may argue that role has been delegated to its cousin, the X3, but I digress. The 3-series has always been the barometer within the auto-industry for what a car should be: a harmonious blend of sport and comfort with timeless design and practicality for the whole family. Each prior generation, from the E21 to the G20, has been able to capture the essence of what made a 3-series a 3-series. We’ll walk through the design, features, and numbers to determine if the all new G50 is worthy of carrying the elusive “3” on its rear.

We’ll begin with the design. The design should not be all that surprising to BMW loyalists. Its electric sibling, the i3, debuted in March of this year and is more or less exactly that, the electric version of the G50 (or I guess the G50 would be the ICE version of the i3 since it debuted after). The G50 utilizes BMW’s Neue Klasse design language and is the first 3-series to do so. It shares virtually nothing with its predecessor, the G20, so the changes are numerous. For example, the front fascia is all brand new. BMW’s iconic twin headlights have evolved to sloped lines, very reminiscent of the “snake eyes” on various other models. Since this is the M350, the headlights are now yellow (BMW refers to them as “M Yellow Lights”). They are housed in a wide horizontal “kidney grille” with the actual kidney grilles connected close by. The kidney grilles now also light up (added option), which is a fun little touch! The wide front bumper is paired with a slightly bulged hood to complete the aggressive look.

Moving to the sides, gone are the traditional door handles as they have been replaced by hideaway electric ones. Personally, I am not a fan of this feature and while I understand it improves airflow, the numbers have to be negligible. What is familiar is the Hofmeister Kink, still present on the C-pillar and evolved to suit the overall language of the G50. The longer front end and stubbier rear are giving slight hatchback vibes, which is a good thing. The side profile is smooth with no offensive lines while also looking poised and ready for attack. Optional 18” to 20” wheels will be available for selection as well.

The most notable element of the rear are the taillights. Long and thin, very similar to that of the G70 7-series. Another notable feature is the quad pipes. This has become a trend for all M-Performance models since the U11 X1 M35i. A BMW roundel sits comfortably, decompressed in the center and comforted by the M350 badge nearby. That is correct, BMW has been and will continue to drop the “i” suffix from all of its models. Most people never mention the “i” when referring to which model they drive, plus this further helps to alleviate any confusion between which energy source is powering the car.

To summarize, the exterior is largely similar to the i3, which is a good thing. Proportions are good, no overexaggerated curves or unnecessary harsh angles. A less is more approach that I believe is carried out very well.

Stepping inside is a totally refreshed design from the outgoing G20. The interior is largely borrowed, dare I say identical, to the i3. Immediately we are drawn to the large 18” screen in the center of the dash. It seems it was inevitable that BMW would follow the industry standard of more screens and less physical buttons. This is further accentuated by the removal of the iDrive knob. Many models already removed this, so this isn't a huge surprise. Bridging the dash and the windshield is a large thin digital screen complete with instrument cluster and customizable widgets. M-Sport seats welcome you and come as standard on the M350. In the rear, legroom improves for passengers as the new 112.6” wheelbase allows for ample comfort. The growth spurt continues everywhere else too as the G50 is larger than the G20 in every regard. While this aids in interior comfort and enhanced cargo space, weight and size can be a factor for some potential shoppers.

Overall, the interior will take some getting used to. Coming from a pro-button mindset, the screen-heavy interior isn’t immediately appealing. I appreciate how even with the screens, BMW still attempts to make it as driver focused as possible. A nice call back to their roots in a world that’s ever changing.

Finally, the best part, the engine and specs. Powering the M350 is the tried and true B58. BMW’s straight six turbo masterpiece for the better part of a decade is mated to a mild hybrid system producing 437 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. This is a 55 horsepower increase over the G20 M340i, a significant jump. For now, the M350 only comes in xDrive but will eventually receive RWD as well. All this power allows the M350 to reach 60mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds (BMW always underrates their cars, so expect this to be lower). No manual is planned for the G50, just like the G20, so if you want to row your own gears it may be time to scoop a G80/2/7 before they are retired.

The powertrain for the M350 is in my opinion the best part of the new G50 M350. 437 stock horsepower in a non-M model is unheard of and no doubt will provide plenty of fun for all who are able to experience it.

The G50 seems to be a worthy successor to the G20 and earns its rightful spot among the 3-series lineage. It is the most technological and most powerful 3-series to date. I expect that the M350 will be ubiquitous and I am looking forward to seeing them and more importantly hearing them. Pricing for the M350 begins at $67,250 before options and deliveries will begin in November.

World Debut: The G50 3-Series Is Here!

Hot Take: The E65/66 is the best generation of 7-series

World Debut: The G45 X3 Is Here!

The Bimmer Crew