What are the differences between the BMW 3 Series before and after the facelift?
3 Answers
BMW 3 Series before and after the facelift differences are as follows: The facelifted BMW 3 Series only adds some configurations, with no differences in other aspects compared to the non-facelifted models. The most significant changes are minor upgrades in the exterior and interior. The new 3 Series facelift will introduce the new 340i (replacing the current 335i model) and a 330e plug-in hybrid version. Below are the relevant introductions of the BMW 3 Series: 1. Low-power version: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has a maximum power of 115kw and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. The engine's maximum power speed is 4500 to 6500 rpm, and the maximum torque speed is 1250 to 4000 rpm. This engine is equipped with direct injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. 2. Medium-power version: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 184 horsepower and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. The engine's maximum power speed is 5000 to 6000 rpm, and the maximum torque speed is 1350 to 4000 rpm. This engine is equipped with direct injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. 3. High-power version: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 258 horsepower and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The engine's maximum power speed is 5000 to 6500 rpm, and the maximum torque speed is 1550 to 4400 rpm. This engine is equipped with direct injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. All three engines are paired with an 8AT transmission.
I just came back from test driving the new BMW 3 Series. The biggest difference is in the front fascia design—the facelifted headlights are slimmer and sharper, paired with a large grille that makes the overall look more sporty and aggressive, significantly boosting its head-turning appeal. The taillights have also been updated to an L-shaped design, offering high recognizability when lit at night, making the previous model seem rather plain in comparison. The updated wheel designs are more stylish, and the body lines are much smoother—even my neighbor came over to ask if it was a new car when I parked. As for the interior, the slightly reshaped steering wheel offers a more comfortable grip, and the improved detailing enhances the overall sense of luxury. Fuel consumption hasn’t changed much, but the visual freshness adds more fun to daily driving—even commuting to work feels more enjoyable. I’d recommend experiencing it in person to truly appreciate the differences.
As a tech enthusiast, I carefully compared the facelifted BMW 3 Series, and the core upgrades are in the driving system: the engine has been slightly tweaked, making power delivery smoother and acceleration response a fraction of a second quicker; the iDrive infotainment system now features a new version with super-fast screen response and better support for wireless CarPlay. The older model's driver assistance features were limited, but the new one adds adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, making highway driving safer and more worry-free. The chassis tuning has been subtly adjusted, reducing vibrations over speed bumps without sacrificing handling precision. Fuel consumption remains largely the same, but the leap in smart features has made my daily commute much easier. Existing owners upgrading won't regret it.
