The New BMW 3-Series Is Set to Address the Grille Critics | Carscoops

      Both the ICE and i3 will share similar designs, even though they are built on different platforms.

      As anticipated, the front end will closely resemble the Vision Neue Klasse concept.

      BMW is moving away from its contentious large kidney grilles in favor of much smaller ones.

      The new LED lighting design will be a consistent feature across the upcoming Neue Klasse models.

      Thanks to recent BMW concepts and a series of detailed renderings, we have a clear idea of the appearance of the next-generation 3-Series. Set to be available in both combustion as the 3-Series and as a fully electric i3, this compact luxury sports sedan will embody the brand's Neue Klasse design language, debuting with a significantly refreshed and modernized aesthetic.

      BMW has recently begun testing the new model with various powertrains near its headquarters in Munich, Germany, and this particular prototype is noteworthy. Unlike other prototypes captured during testing in recent months that featured numerous fake body panels to obscure details, this is the first instance of production-ready headlights being spotted.

      A More Defined Front End

      As anticipated, the headlights closely match the shape and size of those from the original Vision Neue Klasse concept and fit the new sedan well. They are sharper than those on the current 3-Series and smoothly integrate into the much smaller, narrower kidney grilles. This results in a more elegant front end, addressing one of the most disputed aspects of the existing model.

      However, it’s not just the front of the 3-Series that will undergo significant changes. All exterior panels will be updated, with certain parts, like the doors and rear quarter panels, reminiscent of those seen on the current 5-Series. The taillights also seem seamlessly integrated into the rear of the four-door sedan, though it's hard to determine if the ones on this prototype are the final production versions.

      Two Platforms, One Lineup

      Interestingly, the new 3-Series and the fully electric i3 are expected to be based on different platforms. The EV will utilize the Neue Klasse architecture found in the iX3 SUV, while the combustion version will remain on the CLAR platform.

      ICE models will be available with various 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter inline-six options, depending on the market. Meanwhile, the next M3 will utilize a variant of the current model’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo six, but with the addition of a mild-hybrid system.

      BMW has not specified the market launch date for the new 3-Series, but it is anticipated to be unveiled next year alongside the new i3, before debuting as a 2027 model. Until then, camouflaged prototypes will continue to be seen around Munich, providing occasional teasers of what is to come.