BMW has revealed its all-new i3 electric sedan, a sporty 3 Series EV built on the Neue Klasse platform. The model offers 440 miles of EPA range, 463 horsepower and production starting in August 2026. It features advanced tech like an 800-volt system and Panoramic Vision display.
BMW unveiled the 2027 i3 on March 18, 2026, marking its first all-electric 3 Series sedan. This i3, distinct from the original 2013 hatchback discontinued in 2022, uses the Neue Klasse platform shared with the iX3 SUV. Production begins in Munich in August 2026, with deliveries in the fall, according to Engadget and Ars Technica reports from Malaga, Spain, where prototypes were tested earlier in the month in snow conditions (Engadget). Pricing remains undisclosed until closer to launch (Engadget, Ars Technica, Wired). The i3 50 xDrive variant combines an asynchronous front motor and electrically excited synchronous rear motor for 463 hp (345 kW) and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) torque, nearly matching the G80 M3. BMW estimates 440 miles of EPA range, aided by a sixth-generation 800V battery with cylindrical cells 20 percent more energy-dense than prior prismatic cells. It supports 400 kW DC fast charging, 30 percent faster than Gen5 tech, and bidirectional charging for home power (Engadget, Ars Technica). Design shifts to a sporty sedan with a simplified front grille incorporating headlights, a hood recess highlighting the badge, bulgy fenders and optional lighting animations in 'Le Catellet Blue' paint (Engadget). The rear includes a Hofmeister kink but prioritizes cargo space over concept elegance (Ars Technica). Inside, a 17.9-inch Panoramic Vision display angles toward the driver, with a self-learning voice assistant using Amazon Alexa+ AI, Digital Key Plus, wireless charging and customizable themes. Seats offer options like Agave Green imitation leather or Merino leather (Engadget). Driving dynamics emphasize a near 50:50 weight distribution, low center of gravity, rear-biased torque and advanced software for traction and braking, handling 95 percent of stops via regeneration (Ars Technica). Safety features include gaze-tracking driver assists compliant with UN R79 and R171, plus remote parking via app. One source mentions a 560-mile range, but multiple reports confirm 440 miles EPA (TechRadar vs. Engadget, Ars Technica). A wagon variant silhouette was shown, though sedan launches first (Ars Technica).
