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The 2026 BMW 3-Series starts at $48,675 and carries over unchanged as BMW prepares a next-generation model for 2027[1][2]. Car and Driver still ranks it #1 among compact luxury cars, praising its “well-tuned engines, athletic handling, upscale cabin with easy-to-use tech”[1]. For buyers who want the proven seventh-generation 3-Series before the redesign arrives, 2026 represents the final year to get this version—and it remains a compelling sports sedan.
What’s New for 2026
Nothing. BMW left the 3-Series completely unchanged for 2026 as it gears up to introduce the eighth generation next year[1]. If you liked the 2025 model, you’re getting the same car.
That said, the current seventh-generation 3-Series hit its stride years ago. The 2023 refresh brought the curved display setup, improved interior materials, and refined suspension tuning. All of that carries forward to 2026. For buyers who don’t need the latest tech on the block, this represents an opportunity to get a well-sorted sports sedan before BMW resets the design—and potentially the price.
One thing conspicuously still missing: the 330e plug-in hybrid. BMW discontinued it after 2024, leaving buyers without a middle ground between the gas-powered 330i and the fully electric i4[1].
2026 BMW 3-Series Specifications
| Specification | 330i | 330i xDrive | M340i | M340i xDrive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I-4 + 48V | 2.0L Turbo I-4 + 48V | 3.0L Turbo I-6 + 48V | 3.0L Turbo I-6 + 48V |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 4,700 rpm | 255 hp @ 4,700 rpm | 386 hp @ 6,500 rpm | 386 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 369 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm | 369 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph (BMW est.) | 5.6 sec | 5.4 sec | 4.4 sec | 4.1 sec |
| 0-60 mph (Tested) | — | 5.2 sec (C&D) | — | 3.7 sec (C&D) |
| EPA Combined MPG | 31 | 29 | 26 | 26 |
| Trunk Space | 17 cu ft | 17 cu ft | 17 cu ft | 17 cu ft |
| Base MSRP | $48,675 | $50,675 | $61,675 | $63,675 |
Performance and Driving Experience
Car and Driver’s verdict cuts straight to it: “The only sports sedans that the latest 3-series can’t top are its predecessors”[1]. That’s both high praise and honest criticism. The current 3-Series delivers excellent handling dynamics, but older BMWs—the E46, the E90—had more steering feedback. Most buyers won’t notice. But enthusiasts who remember those cars might feel something’s missing.
At the test track, the M340i xDrive hit 60 mph in 3.7 seconds—faster than BMW’s conservative 4.1-second estimate[1]. The quarter-mile came in at 12.2 seconds at 112 mph[1]. The 330i xDrive needed 5.2 seconds to 60, also quicker than its 5.4-second claim[1]. Real-world? Both feel genuinely quick.
Car and Driver praised the 330i’s ability to win two comparison tests against other sports sedans, applauding its “ability to transition from a relaxed and refined cruiser to a sharp and playful canyon carver”[1]. EverymanDriver called it “still the benchmark for luxury sport sedans,” noting the chassis feels “balanced and confidence-inspiring, whether you’re carving a backroad or navigating city streets”[4].
The catch? Ride quality. Edmunds flags it: “Ride quality can be a little too firm at times”[2]. The M Sport package—which dealers stock heavily—makes things firmer still. Car and Driver specifically recommends adding the adaptive M suspension if you spec M Sport, as it optimizes driving dynamics without punishing your spine on rough pavement[1].
Trim Levels and Pricing
| Trim | 2026 MSRP | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|
| 330i | $48,675 | 255 hp, 48V mild hybrid, 18″ wheels, 12.3″ + 14.9″ curved display, sport seats, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, 10-speaker HiFi audio |
| 330i xDrive | $50,675 | All 330i features + AWD |
| M340i | $61,675 | 386 hp, M Sport brakes/suspension/differential, 18″ M wheels, sport exhaust |
| M340i xDrive | $63,675 | M340i features + AWD |
Car and Driver recommends a rear-drive 330i with the M Sport bundle (which opens the door to adaptive M suspension), plus the Driver Assistance package for adaptive cruise and the Convenience pack for heated steering wheel, parking sensors, power trunk, and blind-spot monitoring[1]. That build prioritizes driving dynamics while adding the features BMW should include standard.
Edmunds takes a different approach: they recommend the base 330i and suggest adding the Driving Assistance Professional package for commuters and the upgraded Harman Kardon sound system[2]. Their logic? “The 330i’s turbocharged four-cylinder is strong enough that most drivers won’t miss upgrading to the six-cylinder”[2].
One reality check: options stack up fast. Dealer inventory around Phoenix shows 2026 M340i xDrive models stickering above $67,000 with packages[5]. At that price, you’re overlapping with M3 territory.
Interior and Technology
BMW’s curved display setup—12.3-inch digital gauges paired with a 14.9-inch touchscreen under a single glass panel—dominates the dashboard[1]. The high-resolution screens look sharp, and iDrive 8.5 software responds quickly. EverymanDriver called the cabin “upscale, tech-driven” with a “futuristic feel”[4].
Standard tech includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (though Edmunds notes initial pairing “proved a little more complicated than we’re accustomed to”), wireless smartphone charging, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot[1][2]. BMW’s optional Harman Kardon stereo adds 16 speakers for buyers who want more audio punch.
Interior quality gets consistent praise. Car and Driver says “nothing feels cheap inside” with “excellent materials” and “well-placed controls”[1]. The standard sport seats—wrapped in leatherette—deliver good support, bolstering, and built-in heaters[1].
Cargo space measures 17 cubic feet—large enough for six carry-on bags in Car and Driver testing[1]. A 40/20/40-split folding rear seat lies nearly flat for longer items. Rear legroom works for two adults “as long as they don’t wish to cross their legs,” though parents should note that rear-facing car seats may limit front-seat travel[1][2].
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
EPA estimates rate the rear-wheel-drive 330i at 28 city/35 highway/31 combined[2]. All-wheel drive drops that by 1-2 mpg. The M340i manages 26 mpg combined regardless of drivetrain[1].
Here’s what the numbers don’t tell you. Car and Driver recorded 42 mpg on their 75-mph highway fuel economy loop with a rear-drive 330i—significantly above the 35 mpg EPA highway estimate[1]. The M340i xDrive returned 33 mpg on the same test, exactly matching its EPA highway number[1].
Premium fuel required. The 15.6-gallon tank delivers over 540 miles of highway range in the 330i—solid for road trips without frequent stops. For more on what fuel BMWs require, check our detailed guide.
Safety Features and Ratings
IIHS awarded the 2026 3-Series “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness tests[6]. Driver-side, passenger-side, side-impact, and roof strength evaluations all received top marks. Head/neck, chest, hip/thigh, and lower leg/foot protection all scored “Good” in both moderate overlap and small overlap front tests[6].
Standard safety equipment includes automated emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-keeping assist[1]. And that’s about it.
Here’s the frustration: blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and surround-view cameras all cost extra[1]. Car and Driver notes BMW “is a little stingy when it comes to driver-assistance technology”[1]. Competitors—Mercedes, Genesis—include more standard. If you want comprehensive driver assists, budget for the packages or look elsewhere.
Competitor Comparison
| Spec | 2026 BMW 330i | 2026 Mercedes C300 | 2026 Audi A5 | 2026 Genesis G70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $48,675 | $50,800 | $52,000 | $44,845 |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 255 hp | ~261 hp | 252 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.2 sec (tested) | ~5.9 sec | ~5.5 sec | ~5.9 sec |
| EPA Combined MPG | 31 mpg | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Trunk Space | 17 cu ft | 12.6 cu ft | 13.5 cu ft | 10.8 cu ft |
| Free Maintenance | 3 yrs/36k mi | None | 1 yr | 3 yrs/36k mi |
Car and Driver ranks the 3-Series #1 in its segment, followed by the Genesis G70 and BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe[1]. The Mercedes C-Class ranks behind, scoring 8/10 compared to the 3-Series’ higher marks[1].
Carwow’s comparison puts it simply: “The BMW 3 Series is the better all-rounder, because it has a nice cabin and it’s great to drive”[7]. The new Audi A5 (which replaced the A4) sits “somewhere in between” the 3-Series’ sportiness and the C-Class’ luxury focus—”smart and solid, but not particularly exciting”[7].
Edmunds notes competitors are closing the gap: “Some rival luxury sedans offer more features for less money”[2]. The Genesis G70 undercuts by nearly $4,000 with more standard equipment. But “overall, the 3 Series remains a benchmark”[2].
Reliability and Ownership
BMW backs the 2026 3-Series with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, matching Audi and Mercedes[1]. Roadside assistance runs four years with unlimited mileage. The differentiator? Three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance[1][2]. Neither Mercedes (none) nor Audi (one year) matches that coverage.
Rust protection extends to 12 years with unlimited mileage—useful for buyers in northern climates[2].
Long-term reliability? The B48 four-cylinder and B58 inline-six engines have proven durable across BMW’s lineup. For context on ownership longevity, see our guide on what mileage BMWs start having problems. And for details on BMW maintenance costs, check our cost breakdown.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- M340i xDrive hits 60 mph in 3.7 seconds in testing—faster than BMW’s official 4.1-second claim and competitive with cars costing significantly more[1]
- Real-world highway fuel economy crushes EPA estimates—42 mpg recorded versus 35 mpg rated in the rear-drive 330i[1]
- 17 cubic feet of trunk space beats every German competitor and held six carry-on bags in Car and Driver testing[1]
- Three years of complimentary maintenance saves hundreds compared to Mercedes and Audi, which cover less or nothing[1]
What Doesn’t
- Ride quality feels firm, especially with M Sport suspension—rough roads become tiresome on daily commutes[2]
- Standard safety equipment is minimal—adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring cost extra while competitors include them[1]
- No changes for 2026 means you’re buying end-of-cycle hardware before the 2027 redesign arrives[1]
- Steering feedback doesn’t match older 3-Series models—accurate but lacking the tactile connection enthusiasts remember[1]
FAQs
Is the 2026 BMW 3-Series worth buying?
For driving enthusiasts who prioritize handling dynamics, yes—Car and Driver ranks it #1 in its class[1]. But consider the timing: BMW’s eighth-generation 3-Series arrives for 2027. If you want the latest tech and design, waiting makes sense. If you prefer a proven, well-sorted sports sedan at potentially negotiable prices, the 2026 model represents an opportunity before dealers clear inventory.
Should I buy the 330i or M340i?
The 330i satisfies most buyers. Edmunds says its “turbocharged four-cylinder is strong enough that most drivers won’t miss upgrading to the six-cylinder”[2]. Choose the M340i if straight-line speed matters—3.7 seconds versus 5.2 to 60 mph—or you want the sportier chassis tuning and exhaust note. At $13,000 more, the M340i makes sense for enthusiasts; the 330i delivers the core 3-Series experience for everyone else.
What changed between the 2025 and 2026 BMW 3-Series?
Nothing. BMW left the 2026 model unchanged as it prepares to launch the eighth-generation 3-Series for 2027[1]. Same engines, same transmission, same interior, same tech. If you’re comparing 2025 and 2026 models on a dealer lot, look for equipment and pricing differences rather than model-year updates.
How does the 2026 BMW 3-Series compare to the Mercedes C-Class?
The 3-Series wins on driving dynamics, trunk space (17 vs 12.6 cu ft), and complimentary maintenance[1][7]. The Mercedes C-Class counters with a more polished interior, more standard driver-assist features, and a smoother ride focused on comfort rather than sportiness[2]. Carwow calls the 3-Series “the better all-rounder” for buyers who want both a nice cabin and engaging driving[7].
References
- Car and Driver. (2026). 2026 BMW 3-Series Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/3-series
- Edmunds. (2026). 2026 BMW 3 Series Prices, Reviews, and Pictures. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/3-series/
- Edmunds. (2026). 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i Specs & Features. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/3-series/2026/st-402068489/features-specs/
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EverymanDriver. (2025). 2026 BMW 3 Series Review: Still the Benchmark for Luxury Sport Sedans.
2026 BMW 3 Series Review: Still the Benchmark for Luxury Sport Sedans on Everyman Driver
- BMW of Peabody. (2026). 2026 BMW 340i M340i xDrive Inventory. https://www.bmwpeabody.com/new-Peabody-2026-BMW-340i-M340i+xDrive
- IIHS. (2026). 2026 BMW 3 series 4-door sedan. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/bmw/3-series/2026
- Carwow. (2025). Is the new Audi A5 Better Than a BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class? https://www.carwow.co.uk/editorial/choosing-a-car/car-comparisons-side-by-side/audi-a5-review-comparison-mercedes-c-class-bmw-3-series
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
