The G20/G21 3 Series family is bound to receive a mid lifecycle refreshment right in time for 2023 model year. Scheduled to be revealed around Spring 2022, the medium class premium models are expected feature mild visual updates, whereas the big revolution is expected in the cabin. To be precise, BMW will gradually roll out the new BMW iDrive 8 infotainment architecture, following its premiere this year on the new iX and i4. Starting 2022, more models are expected to receive the new OS, complete with the revamped digital interface and the classy Curved Display.
Spy photographers have recently managed to scoop a camouflaged test prototype in a car park in Arjeplog, near the Arctic Circle. Even though the test model featured no visual change on the outside, the dashboard was covered as to possibly the new screen layout with no cowling whatsoever, like in the iX. As we don’t own the photos, we invite you to see them here. The vehicle still carried the traditional electronic gear shifter, but given the specificities of the new BMW OS 8.0, that one too is on its way out.
It will likely be replaced by a small lever, like the one seen in the new iX and also destined for the i4, and other upcoming Bimmer, such as the U06 2 Series or the U11 X1. Of course, the rotary knob is here to stay, as it had a pivotal role ever since the introduction of the BMW iDrive infotainment concept 20 year ago and the Munich-based brand decided to stick to it.
Speaking of design revisions, we are expecting some minor changes on the outside, with probably a new front light signature with split filaments, just like the ones expected on the forthcoming X3/X4 facelift models. In terms of engines, things will go mostly unchanged between the model generations, with the 320e and 330e at the forefront of the environmental offensive. According to some rumors, there are also chances we see an all-electric 3 Series, but reserved for the Chinese market. Likely to be titled i3L [given longer wheelbase], the pure-electric sedan could be also offered in Europe at a later date. Expect further properly camouflaged 3 Series LCI prototypes to hit streets in the following period.
[Top Image: BMW Concept i4]
The lasting 2023 BMW 3 Series is one of BMW’s most essential models. You’ll see some exterior tweaks in 2023, but these will be countered by a major interior overhaul to keep it competitive in the luxury sports sedan market class. BMW’s iDrive 8 Operating System makes the most of the redesigned dashboard in the sedan. Take a glance outside to see what’s been happening
recently. As compared to other previous BMW car launches, the 2023 3 Series update may be seen as cautious. The lower fascia grille is larger, but there are neither split headlamps or a deep-drive grille. LED features in the new headlights are mirrored in the corner vents’ L-shape design. The notches on the bottom of the lenses have been removed, and the sharp body lines on the fascia have been toned down. The outgoing model’s kidney grille has been widened, giving the new model a cleaner
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Although much less striking, the back features an identical theme. The design of the taillights hasn’t changed, but they’re now a little thinner. More L forms are incorporated into the revamped rear fascia, which also features black housings for vertically oriented reflectors.
At the bottom, they come together and have exhaust ports on both sides. M340i cars get distinctive retro-style roundels on the bonnet, trunk, and wheel caps in commemoration of BMW M’s 50th anniversary.
A new glass dash is the main surprise for this redesign, and it’s far from conservative. A large curved display that perfectly integrates the driver’s instrument panel with the central infotainment screen has been added to the 3 Series. For the driver’s use, a 12.3-inch screen with a 14.9-inch display serves as a command center.
For the new glass cockpit, the central dash was reworked to include thinner vents and a new climate control system. A considerably more compact toggle lever has taken its place in the center console in place of the previously large shift selector for the eight-speed automatic transmission.
The new iDrive system, which now runs on OS 8, comes with a stylish new greenhouse. It’s a smartphone-like interface, according to BMW, and it makes greater use of voice commands for functionality.
The cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system, which is standard on all 2023 3 Series vehicles, is one of the many digital technologies available to the driver and passengers. Connecting up to ten digital devices to 5G networks is also possible.
You’ll find the same engine options from the previous 3 Series under the hood. Additionally, it contains the standard 330i’s turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower.
The 330e plug-in hybrid has a combined output of 288 horsepower. The M340i’s 382-horsepower 3.0-liter I6 turbocharged by BMW is a significant upgrade. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system is offered on the 330e and M340i; 18-inch wheels will be standard on all models in 2023.
The price of BMW’s new 3er hasn’t been announced yet. It costs $42,445 for the 2022 330i, while the M340i comes in at an eye-watering $55,695. The price of the 2023 BMW 3 Series in the United States is expected to be adjusted closer to the car’s market launch in July. For more such content do follow us only on leedaily.com.