Back in July of last year, we came across leaked images of the new, facelifted BMW 3 Series, or as BMW calls its mid-cycle updates, the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) model. These photographs clearly showed the updated design of the executive sport sedan and we were able to discern that new M Performance upgrades would be offered. Although we had some idea of what to expect, the full scope of the range of optional upgrades is yet to be determined. More information is trickling through to us though, including these new spy shots that show the new 3 Series wearing M Performance parts and refreshed fascias.

Starting at the front, we can see that the kidney grilles have been reshaped in a more distinctive, angular way that seems to be becoming the norm for all current LCI models. Furthermore, we see that these grilles will once again boast active shutters to manage airflow as needed, and both the kidneys and the lower grille will be getting a new, sportier mesh design. Intakes for the air curtains that feed the brakes have been redesigned too and are now upright. The two-piece lip spoiler is likely one of the aforementioned M Performance upgrades, while the mirror caps on this M340i are certainly part of that range, channeling the look and feel of true M cars. The headlights are pre-production units, but we know that these will have updated graphics.

The profile reveals little, but there are some subtle changes to the rear. The trunk-mounted M Performance wing is certainly not subtle and appears to be based on the one available for the M3. The taillights will be getting updated graphics as is common with these updates, and we may see some new embellishments like a gloss black strip connecting these clusters, but the trapezoidal exhaust finishers appear to be carrying over unchanged. The reflectors in their faux vent recesses are now taller, sharper, and more upright to match the front fascia.

We have no pictures of the cabin, but iDrive 8 with its dual-screen 14.9-inch display will feature. Engine options will likely remain much the same here, but when the Neue Klasse platform is adopted by the next-generation 3 Series, big changes will come. As for this LCI model, we expect a reveal sometime this year as a 2023 model.