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While the i3<\/a> is undoubtedly a hugely significant step in BMW\u2019s ongoing electrification, the B58-shaped baby isn\u2019t going out with the bathwater just yet. Nobody knows better than BMW about fully committing to electric too early (and calling it an i3), after all, so here\u2019s your first look at a new M Performance 3 Series. With a straight-six and four exhaust pipes. The old ways aren\u2019t totally done just yet, and BMW has confirmed that four- and six-cylinder engines will feature in the upcoming 3 Series.\u00a0<\/p>\n But they will look rather more modern, that\u2019s for sure. While still under disguise for a little while longer, it\u2019s evident from here that i3 and M350 are going to be cut from the same Neue Klasse-branded cloth; EV and 3.0-litre cars are going to be pitched very much as stablemates rather than separate model lines. The exhaust pipes here are the giveaways; what can be seen of the lights front and rear, the glasshouse and the proportions are recognisable from the electric car.<\/p>\n Underneath the M350 are wider tracks and a longer wheelbase than the old G20; this being a 3 Series, there\u2019s \u2018almost perfectly balanced distribution of weight between the axle.\u2019 Handling benefits over the previous M340i xDrive<\/a> (the preceding M Performance machine) are said to come from a tweaked steering ratio, am \u2018upgraded\u2019 braking system and new dampers. For the six-cylinder machine, there\u2019s greater torsional rigidity. An upgrade to adaptive M suspension offers \u2018top level driving dynamics and comfort\u2019, so best factor that into an order already.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n