2026 BMW 3 Series: Specs, Performance & Features
The 2026 BMW 3 Series continues its run as the benchmark compact luxury sports sedan, pairing signature rear-wheel-drive balance with the refinement and technology expected of the brand. Available in two core trims — the 330i and the M340i — the 2026 3 Series starts at an MSRP of around $48,000 for the 330i. Drivers across Riverside, Moreno Valley, Corona, Ontario, and the wider Inland Empire can explore the full lineup at BMW of Riverside.
Powertrain & Performance
The 2026 3 Series gives buyers a clear choice between efficiency and outright performance, and both engines now feature 48-volt mild-hybrid technology for smoother power delivery and improved efficiency.
The 330i is powered by a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It reaches 0–60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds (5.4 seconds with xDrive). The M340i steps up to the celebrated 3.0L M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 — the legendary B58 — generating 386 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, with the M340i xDrive reaching 60 mph in about 4.1 seconds.
Both trims come standard with rear-wheel drive, preserving the balanced, engaging dynamics the 3 Series is known for. BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive is available on either engine for added traction in wet or variable conditions. The M340i also adds sport-tuned suspension, an M Sport differential, upgraded brakes, and 19-inch wheels as standard.
2026 BMW 3 Series Specifications
| Specification | 330i | M340i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo I4 | 3.0L M TwinPower Turbo I6 (B58) |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 386 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 398 lb-ft |
| Electrification | 48V mild-hybrid | 48V mild-hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Standard Drivetrain | RWD (xDrive available) | RWD (xDrive available) |
| 0–60 mph | ~5.6 sec (5.4 xDrive) | ~4.1 sec (xDrive) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers | 5 passengers |
| Trunk Capacity | 16.9 cu ft | 16.9 cu ft |
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy
EPA-Estimated fuel economy gives the 3 Series strong efficiency for the class. The rear-wheel-drive 330i leads the lineup, while even the inline-six M340i stays impressively efficient. All figures below are EPA-Estimated.
| EPA-Estimated MPG | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 330i (RWD) | 28 | 35 | 31 |
| 330i xDrive (AWD) | 26 | 34 | 29 |
| M340i (RWD) | 27 | 33 | 29 |
| M340i xDrive (AWD) | 26 | 33 | 29 |
EPA-Estimated figures shown for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage will vary with driving habits, conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Both engines use premium unleaded fuel.
Cabin, Technology & Comfort
Inside, the 2026 3 Series centers on the BMW Curved Display — a single glass surface housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW’s iDrive 8.5 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. BMW retains a rotary controller and physical climate and volume controls, keeping the driver-first layout intuitive.
The 330i comes well-equipped, and the M340i layers on additional standard performance and convenience content. The cabin seats five, with 16.9 cubic feet of trunk space and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat for added cargo flexibility on weekend trips.
330i Standard Highlights
Moonroof, wireless device charging, heated front seats, SensaTec upholstery, and the full BMW Curved Display with wireless smartphone integration.
M340i Adds
Sport-tuned suspension, M Sport differential, upgraded brakes, and standard 19-inch wheels — building on the same technology suite as the 330i.
Safety & Driver Assistance
The 2026 3 Series comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Buyers seeking expanded coverage can add the available Driving Assistance and Driving Assistance Professional packages, which bring radar- and camera-based support such as adaptive cruise control and parking aids.
Choosing Your 2026 3 Series
The 330i is the efficient, well-rounded entry point — ideal for daily driving in and around Riverside while keeping fuel costs low. The M340i is the enthusiast’s pick, trading some efficiency for a significant jump in power and sport-tuned hardware. Both can be configured with rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive to suit your driving style.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 330i (RWD) | $48,000 | Efficient, balanced daily driving |
| M340i (RWD) | $62,300 | Performance and inline-6 power |
| M340i xDrive (AWD) | $64,300 | Maximum traction and performance |
MSRP shown excludes taxes, title, license, registration, options, and dealer charges. The dealer sets the final price.
Visit BMW of Riverside to see the 2026 3 Series in person and find the configuration that fits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 BMW 3 Series?
The rear-wheel-drive 330i is EPA-Estimated at 28 city / 35 highway / 31 combined MPG. The M340i is EPA-Estimated at 27 / 33 / 29 MPG in rear-wheel-drive form. xDrive all-wheel-drive versions are rated slightly lower. EPA-Estimated figures are for comparison purposes only; actual mileage varies.
How do the engines differ between the two trims?
The 330i uses a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder making 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The M340i uses a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 making 386 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. Both are rear-wheel drive standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available.
What is the seating and cargo capacity?
Both trims seat five passengers and offer 16.9 cubic feet of trunk space with a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat. Exterior dimensions are 185.9 inches long, 71.9 inches wide, and 56.8 inches tall.
What is the starting MSRP of the 2026 BMW 3 Series?
The 2026 330i starts at an MSRP of around $48,000. The M340i starts at $62,300 (rear-wheel drive) or $64,300 with xDrive all-wheel drive. MSRP shown excludes taxes, title, license, and options; the dealer sets the final price.