BMW is hedging its bets on the transition to electric vehicles by introducing the high-tech, all-electric i3 saloon alongside a heavily updated, petrol-powered 3 Series backed by a €2 billion investment. While demand for fully electric models rises, the German carmaker acknowledges that conservative buyers may not be ready to make the switch, prompting a dual-path strategy that keeps internal combustion engines on sale.
Shared Design And Diverging Mechanical Layouts
Both the new electric i3 and the updated petrol 3 Series share identical bodywork, featuring clean lines and a broad, slim front grille. However, the rear quarters reveal structural differences; the petrol variant appears taller and bulkier to accommodate a fuel tank, exhaust system, and traditional boot space. The first revealed petrol model is the range-topping M350, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine producing 443hp and a 0-100km/h time of 4.1 seconds. By comparison, the electric i3 M50 delivers 469hp but carries extra battery weight, reaching 100km/h in 4.7 seconds.
Pricing And Running Cost Comparisons In Ireland
Purchase prices and operating costs differ significantly between the two powertrains. BMW Ireland announced an entry price of €71,935 for the petrol 320 and €111,585 for the M350. Meanwhile, the electric i3 M40 starts at €60,285 with a 710km range, and the longer-range 900km i3 M50 costs €67,215. Fuel economy for the petrol M350 is rated at 8.2 litres per 100km, putting a Dublin-to-Cork trip at roughly €37 in petrol. The electric i3 M50 can complete the same 230km journey for about €14 using home charging.
Production Facilities And Manufacturing Strategy
Production is split across BMW’s German manufacturing network. The electric i3 is built at the Munich headquarters factory, while the petrol and plug-in hybrid models are assembled nearby in Dingolfing. “We are investing in value creation, competitive production and job security in Germany,” said Raymond Wittmann, BMW’s head of production, pointing to the new high-voltage battery plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen as part of the domestic electromobility supply chain.
Corporate Financials Amid Industry Headwinds
BMW Group reported a €2.8 billion profit for the first half of the year, though overall sales fell by 4.2 per cent, with BMW-branded vehicle sales down 6.2 per cent. Turnover dropped by eight per cent, and the profit margin on car sales narrowed to 6.5 per cent. Milan Nedeljković, chair of the board, noted that the company has cut costs by €2.5 billion over the past year through measures including up to 9,000 job reductions planned through 2035 to address intense global competition and geopolitical conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions About The New BMW 3 Series Lineup
When will the new BMW 3 Series models be available?
BMW has confirmed the upcoming rollout of the electric i3 saloon and the updated petrol 3 Series, with manufacturing taking place in Munich and Dingolfing.
What are the power outputs for the top-tier models?
The petrol-powered M350 produces 443hp from its 3.0-litre straight-six engine, while the electric i3 M50 generates 469hp.
Where are the electric and petrol models manufactured?
The electric i3 is produced at BMW’s Munich headquarters, whereas the petrol and plug-in hybrid 3 Series variants are manufactured at the Dingolfing facility.
Are diesel versions of the new 3 Series coming to Ireland?
BMW will produce diesel variants for select global markets, but they are not expected to be sold in Ireland.