2025 BMW 3 Series Gets Electrified Engines, Updated Interior, And More Technology

BMW is rolling out updates for the MY2025 3 Series lineup. The world’s favorite compact luxury sedan (which was facelifted in 2022) benefits from subtle revisions such as electrified four- and six-cylinder engines, improved chassis tuning, and more technology. These changes aim to keep the 3er at the top of the class, where it has remained for many years.

Under the hood of the 2025 330i and 330i xDrive, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder incorporating 48v mild-hybrid technology. Aside from this, the motor now uses the Miller cycle combustion process and redesigned combustion chambers and intake ports. BMW says it has also made “innovations in the areas of camshaft control, injection, ignition system, and exhaust gas routing.” Despite the improvements, power remains unchanged, with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Depending on the configuration, an eight-speed transmission sends power to the rear axle or all four corners.

Mild-Hybrid Technology For 330i And M340i

The 2025 M340i and M340i xDrive also receive a 48v mild-hybrid system, which is said to improve efficiency and power delivery. The auxiliary electric drive provides up to 11 hp of additional boost, with the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 386 hp and 398 lb-ft. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission option. The 4 Series Gran Coupe received the same engine upgrades earlier this year. Interestingly, there’s no mention of the 3 Series Hybrid models, but we expect an update to follow in the coming months.

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The 3 Series has always been the dynamic benchmark in its class, and the new chassis upgrades will ensure it remains a joy to pilot. BMW says it has equipped a stiffer mounting to connect the rear dampers to the body, among other changes, which has resulted in more precise handling and greater ride comfort. In the ‘Comfort’ drive mode, the steering effort has also been reduced for everyday driving duties.

What About The Exterior?

The 3 Series received a facelift two years ago, but its styling is still fresh. For 2025, BMW has introduced four new colors: Arctic Race Blue Metallic, Vegas Red Metallic, Frozen Pure Grey Metallic, and Frozen Portimao Blue. Customers that equip the M Sports package (standard on the M340i) receive new 19-inch M wheels available in Jet black or a bi-color finish. A BMW Individual 19-inch wheel with a bi-color finish can also be specified.

Interior Design Changes Are More Significant

Inside, the 3 Series lineup benefits from a new steering wheel design. The 330i receives a two-spoke steering wheel with an unusual polygonal rim. A sporty flat-bottomed three-spoke M steering wheel is added when equipped with the M Sport package. This is standard on the M340i, which receives a red 12 o’clock marker, while 330i M Sport models get a black marker. Both steering wheels boast illuminated controls and gearshift paddles.

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Apart from this, the 2025 3 Series range benefits from plusher interior materials and new trim options. Customers can now opt for the classy Galvanic controls for the window switches, air vent adjustment stalks, and the lock button. This creates a more upmarket look within the cabin. The optional Senastec (artificial leather) dashboard trim has also been refined for a smoother surface and now gets decorative stitching in a contrasting hue. 330i models receive fine-wood trim inlays as standard, while the M340i sports M Aluminum Rhombicle inlays. Ash Gray open-poor wood, Aluminum Fine Brushed, and Carbon Fiber (M340i only) can be specified at extra cost.

Tell Us About The Technology?

The interior ambient lighting now extends into the center air vents and can be adjusted for color and brightness. Nine colors are available. BMW says the interior lighting now forms part of the dynamic welcome and goodbye sequences and is also used to alert the driver to an open door or an incoming call.

Elsewhere, the 2025 BMW 3 Series receives the latest iDrive with QuickSelect, based on the Operating System 8.5. The screen constantly displays the navigation map view, although the display size is configurable. BMW has made the system easier to use, with a “flatter” menu structure that negates the need to dive into submenus to change simple settings. The driver has easy access to widgets that allow them to access commonly used features with minimal effort. Owners can customize this, add their preferred functions and widgets, and even change their arrangement.

What Else Do I Need To Know?

Operating the climate controls has also been simplified. Everything from temperature selection to seat heating can now be adjusted or activated by voice command or on the Curved Display touch screen. We’re not sure many customers will appreciate the lack of easy-to-use physical controls, but at least they have different ways of using the system.

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The standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus also improves the navigation system. The automaker claims it is much easier to use than before, with a simplified menu setup and a more intuitive way of inputting destinations. Opting for BMW Live Cockpit Professional adds a head-up display and an immersive Augmented View for the navigation system.

BMW has not said when models will reach US dealers, but production of American market models will kick off in August 2024 at the San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico.