India-bound BMW 3 Series Gets Modest Updates For 2024

• Updated BMW 3 Series revealed globally.

• Gets subtle exterior changes to the bumper, side sills and wheels.

• Features a new 14.9-inch touchscreen running the latest BMW OS.

• PHEV models for the global market now have a larger 19.5kWh battery with an electric  range of up to 101 km.

The BMW 3 Series has received several modest updates for 2024, including design changes, interior improvements, new infotainment software, and an extended electric range for plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models offered in global markets. Production for all versions will begin in Europe in July, but the diesel variants won't be available in markets like the UK. Here are all the key updates that are done to the 3-series.

Exterior Updates

BMW has made slight changes to the 3 Series' exterior, including  angular sills and air intakes, and redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels, though 17-inch alloys remain as standard with contrasting red brake callipers. There are nine paint options (2 solid and 7 metallic hues) and the new additions include Fire Red metallic and Arctic Race Blue metallic colours. 

The chassis has been refined for improved comfort and responsiveness without compromising driving dynamics. Lightweight materials like aluminium are used in the bonnet, front wheel arches, engine subframe, and front spring struts to keep weight down, although the total weight is not yet disclosed.

Interior Updates

Inside, the 3 Series features a minimalist design, replacing many buttons with a 14.9-inch touchscreen running the latest iDrive system. This system includes a customisable widget bar, augmented reality for navigation, 5G connectivity, and seamless integration with the MyBMW app. Standard features include tri-zone climate control, a 14.9-inch curved infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. It also gets a redesigned flat-bottom sports leather steering wheel with a polygonal rim in two-spoke design with illuminated buttons and paddle shifters.

Optional upgrades include glass trim pieces, a new M sports steering wheel, and new air-vent design, along with new ambient lighting features. The interior can also be customised with materials like dark graphite matt, grey blue ash wood, carbon fibre, and aluminium inserts.

Powertrain

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version (sold abroad) now has a 19.5kWh battery, which extends its electric range up to 101 km. This model uses a combination of a 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and the battery to produce a total of 300 PS. It can be recharged in about 2 hours and 15 minutes at a maximum rate of 11kW.

The 320i model which is sold in the international market, features a plug-in mild-hybrid system along with a 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 184 PS. This allows it to sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.4 seconds and achieves a limited top speed of 250 kmph.

For the Indian market the 3 series is available in three powertrain options. The BMW 320Ld is powered by a 2-litre diesel unit producing 187 PS and 400 Nm. The BMW 330Li M Sport is powered by a 2-litre turbo petrol engine which produces 254 PS and 400 Nm. These are likely to be retained as it is when the new update comes to India.

The more powerful M340i variant is equipped with a 3-litre inline-six engine and a 48V mild-hybrid system, but now produces 374 PS and 500 Nm. This setup enables the car to sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in just  4.4 seconds.

Price and Rivals

In the Indian market, the 3 Series is available in long-wheelbase versions (330Li and 330Ld) starting at Rs 60.60 lakh (ex-showroom), and the standard wheelbase M340i at Rs 72.90 lakh (ex-showroom). It's uncertain when these updates will make it to the Indian market, but when they do, expect a small bump over the existing price tag. The 3 Series rivals other mid-size luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.