BMW has wasted no time in rolling out a suite of M Performance Parts for its all-new 3-Series and the electric i3, revealing a host of carbon fibre upgrades designed to sharpen the visual aggression of both models. The parts were showcased alongside the unveiling of the new-generation 3-Series, signalling the company's intent to offer personalisation options from the very start of the model's life cycle.
The first batch of accessories has been displayed on the newly announced i3 M60 xDrive, the dual-motor electric variant that will sit at the top of the i3 range until the arrival of the fully fledged M3 EV. Although the electric i3 was presented six months ago, this is the first time details and photographs of the performance-focused M60 version have been confirmed. It is expected to join the i3 line-up next year.
Technical specifications for the i3 M60 xDrive remain unconfirmed, but BMW has highlighted several distinguishing features. These include a unique front light graphic, optional yellow daytime running lights, distinctive graphics in the taillights, and exclusive 21-inch wheels. The M Performance Parts for this model begin at the front with a carbon fibre lip spoiler and winglets, complemented by carbon fibre wing mirror caps complete with M stripes and a special set of side skirts.
At the rear, the electric i3 receives an aggressive carbon diffuser and a split lip spoiler, a design unlike any other currently offered by BMW. As an EV, it forgoes a traditional exhaust system, but the overall effect remains purposeful and track-inspired. Pricing for these accessories has yet to be confirmed.
Alongside the i3 M60 xDrive parts, BMW has also revealed a range of M Performance accessories for the petrol-powered M350 xDrive. This model replaces the M340i xDrive and will serve as the highest-performance version of the combustion 3-Series until the new M3 arrives. It is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid engine producing 437 hp and 428 lb-ft (580 Nm) of torque.
Customers looking to distinguish their M350 xDrive will be able to order a new piano black front splitter with carbon winglets, as well as a bright red tow strap. A set of special M Performance wheels is also available, in addition to carbon wing mirror caps and distinctive side skirts. The rear receives a carbon fibre diffuser similar to that offered on the i3, along with a carbon lip spoiler and carbon tailpipe surrounds developed by BMW's M division.
The rapid release of these photographs suggests that the M Performance Parts will be available as soon as the new i3 and 3-Series arrive in dealerships. BMW has not yet announced pricing for any of the accessories, but the early reveal underscores the brand's strategy of offering extensive customisation options to buyers from launch.
The new 3-Series itself was revealed with up to 437 hp and is set to arrive in the US next year. The M Performance Parts range allows customers to add a more aggressive aesthetic to both the combustion and electric models, bridging the gap between standard production cars and full M models. With the M3 EV still some way off, the i3 M60 xDrive and its accompanying accessories will serve as the sportiest option in the electric 3-Series line-up for the time being.