The 2027 BMW 3 Series — codenamed G50 — represents the most significant change to hit the nameplate since the E90 replaced the E46. Neue Klasse design language, a new M Performance badge replacing the M340i, no manual transmission anywhere in the lineup, and production beginning at Dingolfing in November 2026. This is a genuinely different car, not just an evolution of the current G20.
Two 3 Series Launching Simultaneously
The G50 story requires understanding that BMW is launching two completely different 3 Series in 2027 — built on entirely different platforms. The combustion-powered G50 uses the CLAR II architecture, an evolution of the current G20 platform. The fully electric version, codenamed NA0, rides on BMW's new Neue Klasse NCAR platform and will wear the i3 badge.
BMW's design chief has said customers will be "hard-pressed to tell which one is the electric one." That may be the goal, but the two cars share almost nothing below the sheetmetal. The EV platform allows for shorter overhangs, a longer wheelbase, and a fundamentally different interior with no transmission tunnel. The G50 combustion car will be the volume product — the one dealers stock and most buyers point at when they say "3 Series."
Design: Neue Klasse Everywhere
The oversized grille treatment that defined the G20 M Sport is gone. The G50's front end uses a horizontal glass panel integrating the headlights directly into the kidney surround. The kidneys are slimmer and more geometric. Pop-out flush door handles replace conventional units. Fewer character lines on the flanks — closer in spirit to the E30's simplicity. Quad exhaust tips confirmed on M Performance models, previously restricted to full M cars.
M350 Replaces the M340i
The M340i name is being retired along with BMW's practice of using the "i" suffix on combustion models. The new M Performance variant will be called the M350. The name change isn't cosmetic — it signals a broader naming strategy shift across BMW's lineup. Spy shots at the Nurburgring showed M Sport brakes and what appear to be 20-inch wheels on the M350, versus the G20 M340i's maximum 19-inch wheels.
No Manual Transmission
The G50 will launch without a manual gearbox option. BMW has confirmed no manual will be offered at launch. Given that the current G20 manual was introduced late in the model's lifecycle and sold in limited numbers, this isn't a surprise — but it's worth noting for the enthusiast community.
What This Means for DMV Buyers Right Now
If you're considering a current G20 3 Series, you're at an interesting decision point. Production of the G50 starts November 2026 — meaning G20 closeout deals and incentives will likely increase through the second half of 2026 as dealers clear inventory. The current 330i and M340i represent excellent value right now. Use DMVCalc to calculate your current 3 Series payment and compare it to what a G50 might look like when it arrives.
Considering a current 3 Series before the new generation arrives? Run your payment estimate now.
Source: BMWBlog.com, May 2026. For informational purposes only. Final specs subject to confirmation at launch.