Another day, another new BMW prototype has been spotted out in the wild. Over the last few weeks, our spy photographers have sent us photos of the new 5 Series facelift, X1, and M8 CSL being evaluated by BMW. Now, the refreshed BMW 3 Series has been caught testing in Munich.

The current-generation 3 Series has been on sale since the 2019 model year, but stiff competition from the all-new 2022 Mercedes C-Class is forcing BMW to update the 3 Series to keep it looking fresh. The styling changes on this latest prototype are subtle, but the most obvious difference is the new slimmer headlights and redesigned daytime running lights.

The design of the air intakes on the lower front bumper will probably change and the grille could be tweaked. Don't worry though, the updated 3 Series won't be getting the big grille treatment like its M3 sibling. At the back, the taillights will also be redesigned to freshen up the styling.

More significant changes will be found inside the cabin, however. Previous spy shots confirmed the mid-cycle update will add a new curved display borrowed from the iX. The "hybrid test vehicle" sticker indicates this prototype has an electrified powertrain. Under the hood, BMW has confirmed the combustion-powered 3 Series will be offered with the same six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines as the current car.

That means the new 3 Series Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor producing a combined 288 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Topping the current 3 Series range is the M340i, which packs a 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder engine generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic.

An all-electric version of the 3 Series will also coincide with the mid-cycle update, though it's expected to only go on sale in China. The refreshed BMW 3 Series is expected to debut next year and go on sale for the 2023 model year in the US.