2027 BMW 3 Series — M350 vs i3: Which Drives Better?

BMW M350 xDrive or electric BMW i3 50 xDrive — which of the all-new 2027 BMW 3 Series models delivers the more engaging driving experience? Thomas drives both versions and compares steering, acceleration, ride comfort, seating position, rear-seat space, cargo practicality and real-world efficiency. The gasoline M350 and electric i3 share the new 3 Series design language, but use different vehicle architectures. The test cars also have different suspension configurations: adaptive suspension on the M350 and standard suspension on the i3 50. This matters when comparing ride comfort. *U.S. buyer context (BMW USA, September 29, 2026):* 2027 BMW M350 xDrive: 437 hp, 428 lb-ft; starting MSRP $65,900. 2027 BMW i3 50 xDrive: 463 hp, 476 lb-ft; starting MSRP $61,500. Both MSRPs exclude $1,350 destination and handling; U.S. sales are scheduled to begin in Q1 2027. BMW estimates 446–468 miles of i3 range using preliminary EPA test procedures. This is NOT a final EPA-certified range rating. IMPORTANT: Thomas's driving observations and measurements come from the vehicles shown in this review. Added U.S.-spec numbers and prices are BMW's official U.S. figures and should not be confused with the test cars' market-specific specifications. Equipment and availability may differ by market. *CHAPTERS* 00:00 Introduction — Gas vs Electric 3 Series 00:39 BMW M350: Exterior and Design 02:22 M350 Inline-Six Engine and xDrive 03:45 Electric i3 Design and Dimensions 04:54 i3 Battery, Charging and Power 06:43 Interior, Materials and Controls 09:28 Driver Position and Neue Klasse Cockpit 11:00 Rear Seats and Everyday Practicality 12:31 BMW i3 Interior and Rear Space 14:43 BMW i3 Cargo Area 15:35 BMW M350 Driving Test 18:07 M350 Ride Comfort and Handling 24:22 BMW i3 50 xDrive Driving Test 25:22 i3 Suspension and Ride Comfort 27:55 Electric Acceleration and Dynamics 31:00 M350 vs i3 — Thomas’s Verdict 32:30 Driver Assistance 33:25 Electricity Consumption and Range BMW USA official source: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/america... Autogefühl Select: focused reviews and comparisons featuring Thomas's original English commentary and independent driving impressions. #BMW3Series #BMWi3 #AutogefühlSelect