2023 BMW 3 Series Sedan

The last few BMW reveals, whether facelifted or all-new models, have all been polarizing in some way. Be it the iX electric SUV or the new 7 Series, BMW has made some shockingly bold choices, both aesthetically and with regards to pushing the boundaries of technology. It's for this reason that the latest BMW 3 Series is a refreshing departure, for the brand has shown us that it can still exercise a measure of restraint.

The refreshed 3 Series arrives with smartly updated exterior styling, a new cockpit with BMW's Curved Display and iDrive 8, and familiar class-leading powertrains. With mild-hybrid technology, the six-cylinder M340i is a sublime sports sedan, but even a base 330i exemplifies what the 3 Series has always been about. By not trying too hard, BMW's staple luxury sedan is a class act and ready to fend off the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

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The release date for the BMW 3 Series has been scheduled for July 2022. Models destined for the USA will be built at the company's plant in San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series' price remains unknown, but we expect this information to be coming out closer to the car's arrival. As usual, however, we expect it to cost a little more than the 2022 model which begins at $41,450.

In terms of rivals, it's no surprise that the BMW will once again be pitted against the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Starting at an MSRP of $43,550, the C-Class is closer to being a mini S-Class than ever before. However, the Merc isn't quite as sharp to drive and lacks a soulful six-cylinder engine option higher up in the lineup.

The seventh-generation BMW 3 Series exterior has held up well over the years, and this facelift smoothes things over and tightens up the details just enough. It's almost a surprise that the grille's size hasn't changed. It doesn't dominate the face, blending nicely with the restyled headlights that have a cleaner contour without the previous model's notch. The inverted L-shape of the daytime driving lights is modern and stylish, too. Lower down, there are air intakes finished in high-gloss black.

As standard, the 2023 3 Series comes with redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels, while Skyscraper Grey metallic joins the selection of BMW 3 Series colors. Otherwise, the side profile hasn't changed much.

The 330i and 330e can be upgraded with an M Sport Package with new features like a large central air intake and deeply recessed air curtains.

At the back, the three-dimensional taillights remain familiar, but the M Sport's rear apron has new vertical reflectors and a new center diffuser element. For the 2023 model, Shadowline exterior trim is now standard, although the 330i and 330e are available with a more classic look via optional satin aluminum exterior trimmings. The M340i has a rear spoiler and aerodynamic kit.

We don't expect the dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series sedan to change much with the 2023 model, but the new rear apron and other changes could have altered things slightly. For reference, the 2022 BMW 330i measures 185.7 inches in length, 71.9 inches in width, 56.8 inches in height, and has a 112.2-inch wheelbase.

BMW powertrains are often difficult to fault. That would explain why there are no major changes to the lineup for the 2023 model. The BMW 3 Series engine lineup starts with the 330i delivering 255 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. In rear-wheel-drive form, it should be able to complete the 0-60 mph run in the mid-five-second range.

Next is the 330e plug-in hybrid. We anticipate the same combined specs of 288 hp and 310 lb-ft from the turbo-four and electric motor as the 2022 model. Finally, the M340i is the hot performer that will make anyone question the need for the M3. The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine was supplemented by a 48V mild-hybrid system last year, and it should retain outputs of 382 hp and 368 lb-ft. With the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, this model can reach 60 mph in a little over four seconds.

All 3 Series models come with RWD with the option of adding xDrive AWD, and all use a fast-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Based on 2022 EPA ratings, the 330e RWD is the most efficient of the bunch with a 22-mile all-electric range and gas mileage figures of 28 mpg combined or 75 MPGe.

From behind the wheel, the BMW 3 Series interior's changes are impossible to miss. Making a grand entrance is BMW's Curved Display that combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen interface. iDrive 8 brings BMW's newest infotainment tech into the 3 Series with quick data processing speeds, the best connectivity features, and the clever BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. As standard, the 3 Series comes with navigation using cloud-based BMW Maps, Connected Parking for quickly finding the closest available parking spot, and an optional Personal eSIM linked to 5G connectivity.

The BMW 3 Series' front seats are both adjustable electrically, and the luxury atmosphere is bolstered by a sport leather steering wheel, ambient lighting, and open pore fine wood oak grain trim. Inside the M340i, wood trim is traded for sportier aluminum rhombicle anthracite.

Despite the impressive standard specification, the 2023 BMW 3 Series can be upgraded with options like a head-up dislay, a surround-view camera system, wireless device charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The BMW 3 Series' trunk space should be retained. At 17 cubic feet, this is still a highly practical sedan.