The updated 3 Series gets subtle design changes; could be unveiled in the coming months.
Images of the facelifted BMW 3 Series (G20) have leaked online, revealing certain design updates for BMW’s popular sedan. The current-gen 3 Series made its global debut in 2018, and the facelifted version shown here could arrive in international markets sometime this year. The model seen in these leaked images is the long-wheelbase variant of the 3 Series sedan that is on sale in China and India; it is known as the BMW 3 Series Grand Limousine in the latter market.
- Facelifted 3 Series gets reworked headlights, bumpers
- Powertrain options likely to remain the same
- Could come to India sometime in 2023
BMW 3 Series facelift: what are the changes?
As with most mid-cycle facelifts, the refreshed 3 Series Grand Limousine gets subtle design updates. Bear in mind, this is the car that will go on sale in China, which means the one coming to India might have some styling differences. Leaked images reveal a revised front-end, with new headlamps, reworked bumpers, and a larger air intake. However, the kidney grille remains small, unlike other new BMW models that feature bigger grilles. The pattern on the grille varies, depending on the trim. From the side, the car remains more or less the same, but BMW could add new alloy wheel designs and paint shade options. At the rear, the facelifted 3 Series gets reworked bumper and some of its variants get visible exhausts as well.
Though interior images of the facelifted sedan are not available, it is unlikely that the carmaker will make any significant changes there. Updates to the 3 Series’ cabin might be limited to a larger, more advanced infotainment system, a revised instrument cluster, and additional interior colour and trim options.
BMW 3 Series facelift: powertrain options
Since this is only a facelift and not a generation change, BMW is likely to carry forward the existing powertrain options for the refreshed model. Internationally, the 3 Series is available with petrol, diesel and petrol-hybrid powertrains. A new electric sedan based on the facelifted 3 Series will be called the i3, and it will initially be sold only in the Chinese market.
BMW 3 Series: India launch and rivals
The facelifted 3 Series is expected to go on sale internationally later this year, and an India launch could follow. BMW sells the 3 Series in the Indian market in both, standard and long-wheelbase (Gran Limousine) versions, and the same is likely to continue with the facelifted model. After launch, the facelifted 3 Series will continue to take on the Audi A4, Volvo S60, Jaguar XE and the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class that was recently launched in India.
Also see:
2019 BMW 3 Series India review, test drive
