Thank goodness the grille isn’t growing.
The latest BMW design language has come under a lot of criticism. Some would argue that it is inconsistent between models. The 7th-generation 3 Series (G20), was released three years ago. It is now preparing for a midcycle facelift. Thankfully, the exterior changes won’t be too drastic.
The 3 Series LCI was seen here testing spicy M340i flavors near the Nurburgring. It seems that the LCI is keeping the regular grille and not switching to the XXL kidneys. Although the camo is extended, it suggests that there will be major changes to the front and rear fascias. However, in reality, the sports sedan will probably undergo minimally invasive cosmetic surgery.
The facelift will bring a major innovation to the cabin, where the new iDrive infotainment systems will be used. It was unveiled earlier this year in the iX and i4 electrical models. It features side-by-side screens, a setup archrival Mercedes has used for many years.
The i4 is an electric 4 series Gran Coupe. We will remind you that the latest iDrive uses a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster. For a better user experience, the two screens share a frameless display that creates the illusion of one large screen. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is slightly angled towards drivers to provide a more comfortable viewing experience.
The 3 Series facelift will also introduce the first EV version of BMW’s zero emission efforts. This includes already confirmed electric derivatives from the 5 Series and 7 Series. Unfortunately, these models won’t be able to ride on an electric car platform because the Bavarians won’t have one ready for them until 2025 when they will unveil the Neue Klasse architecture.
The regular 3 Series is about to be taken under the knife. There’s a good chance that the first-ever M3 touring will also be based upon the facelifted model. However, it will have the controversial grille used by the 4 Series, M4 models as well as the i4/iX.
We hear that the M340d high-performance diesel will continue to be available in wagon and sedan configurations in countries where oil-burners still are in demand. The 3 Series sedan will continue to be produced until October 2025, while the more practical Touring (G21), will allegedly be retired in June 2026.