Every 2025 BMW 3 Series will get a mild hybrid system, regardless of powertrain. That’s the big news out of BMW this week, though the 3 Series gets some minor cosmetic updates as well.
The 2025 BMW 3 Series will start at $46,675 (including $1,175 shipping and handling — still one of the lowest delivery fees in the automotive business). Prices push into the low-$60,000 range, not counting the high-performance M3 models.
Mild Hybrid for a Mild Boost
The 48-volt mild hybrid system adds no power to the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine found in lower trim models. It’s still good for 255 horsepower. The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6-cylinder engine in upper trims, however, gains 11 hp from the hybrid boost, bringing output to 386.
With either choice, power goes through an 8-speed automatic transmission to either the rear wheels or all four, depending on which boxes you check and what you spend.
BMW says the chassis of the 2025 “also benefits from rigorous development work.” Strangely, it’s not very forthcoming about what that work entailed, only saying that “the blend of sporting flair and ride comfort for which the 3 Series is renowned has been further refined across all models with a series of targeted updates.”
The automaker does note that “A stiffer mounting connecting the rear dampers to the body is just one of the measures used.”
New Steering Wheels, Phone Sign-In
The changes are minimal outside — just new paint options and wheel designs. But inside, 330i models get a new 2-spoke steering wheel, while 340i models (and those who choose the M sport package) get a new flat-bottom 3-spoke model. New ambient lighting surrounds the center air vents.
The iDrive system now runs BMW Operating System 8.5, which features a new home screen with faster access to common functions.
“Customers initially sign in to the vehicle with their BMW ID by scanning a QR code with their smartphone. The personal user profile is then imported automatically,” BMW says, like telling your brand new iPhone to get everything it needs from your old iPhone.
Should you want to gamify your driving, a new Efficiency Trainer function gives you a monthly review of your scores in things like fuel consumption and average speed, “as well as offering helpful tips for driving efficiently.”
