What’s New with the BMW i3? Everything You Need to Know About the Next-Gen Electric 3 Series
Is BMW Really Bringing Back the i3 Name?
If you’ve been following BMW’s electric journey, you might remember the quirky, compact i3 that turned heads when it launched a decade ago. Well, BMW is reviving the i3 badge—but this time, it’s attached to something entirely different. The new i3 is set to arrive in 2026 as an all-electric version of the iconic 3 Series sedan. For the first time, BMW is offering a 3 Series-sized model with a fully electric powertrain, and it’s shaping up to be a major milestone for the brand.
How Does the New i3 Fit into BMW’s Neue Klasse Vision?
The new i3 isn’t just another electric car—it’s part of BMW’s ambitious Neue Klasse (New Class) initiative. This is BMW’s next-generation platform, designed from the ground up to prioritize electric vehicles. The i3 will be the second model in this new era, following closely behind the iX3 SUV. Both cars were recently shown in camouflaged form, hinting at a bold new design direction inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept that wowed audiences in 2023.
What Sets the Neue Klasse Platform Apart?
BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture is a big deal. It’s built around an 800V Gen6 platform, which means faster charging, improved efficiency, and the ability to support a wide range of body styles and powertrains. The i3 will be the smallest EV in BMW’s lineup, but don’t let that fool you—it’s expected to pack a serious punch in terms of performance and range.
Will the New i3 Be Fun to Drive?
If you’re worried that going electric means sacrificing driving pleasure, BMW wants to put those fears to rest. According to BMW chairman Oliver Zipse, the new i3 will retain the classic proportions and sporty feel that have defined the 3 Series for over 50 years. The i3 is expected to share much of its hardware with the iX3, which boasts 464 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque from a dual-motor setup. That’s enough to launch the iX3 from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds. Given the i3’s lower, sleeker shape, it could be even quicker—and more agile—on the road.
What About Range and Charging?
Range anxiety is fading fast, especially with the leaps BMW is making. The iX3 is launching as one of the longest-range EVs on the market, with a claimed 500 miles on a single charge. While official figures for the i3 haven’t been released yet, its more aerodynamic shape could push the range even further. The 800V platform also means ultra-fast charging—think adding hundreds of miles in just minutes at compatible stations.
Will There Be Different Versions of the i3?
Absolutely. BMW is planning a full lineup based on the new i3, including a Touring estate version for those who need a bit more space. And for performance enthusiasts, there’s even more good news: an all-electric M3 is in the works, with BMW promising it will set new standards for electric sports sedans when it arrives in 2028. Expect a range of power configurations to suit different needs and budgets.
How Does the New i3 Compare to Its Predecessor?
The original i3 was a trailblazer—compact, innovative, and unlike anything else on the road. The new i3, however, is a different animal. It’s a true 3 Series at heart: bigger, more powerful, and aimed squarely at drivers who want the prestige and practicality of BMW’s best-selling sedan, but with zero emissions. This shift reflects how far electric cars have come in just a few years.
What Does This Mean for BMW’s Future?
BMW isn’t just dipping its toes into electrification—it’s diving in headfirst. The launch of the i3 and iX3 marks the start of a massive product offensive. BMW has announced plans to launch 40 new and updated models by 2027, covering everything from compact cars to luxury SUVs. The Neue Klasse platform is the backbone of this strategy, allowing BMW to adapt quickly as the market evolves.
Are There Any Drawbacks or Concerns?
No car is perfect, and the new i3 will face stiff competition from rivals like the Tesla Model 3, Mercedes EQE, and Polestar 2. Pricing, real-world range, and charging infrastructure will all play a role in its success. But BMW’s reputation for quality, combined with the flexibility of the Neue Klasse platform, gives it a strong foundation.
Why Should You Care About the New i3?
If you’re considering an electric car, the new i3 is worth keeping on your radar. It combines the driving dynamics and prestige of the 3 Series with cutting-edge EV technology. Whether you’re a longtime BMW fan or just looking for a practical, stylish, and sustainable sedan, the i3 promises to deliver.
The Bottom Line: A New Chapter for BMW and Electric Cars
The return of the i3 badge signals a bold new chapter for BMW. With its blend of performance, range, and classic 3 Series appeal, the new i3 is poised to shake up the electric car market. As BMW rolls out more models on the Neue Klasse platform, the choices for EV buyers will only get better. The future of driving pleasure is electric—and BMW is making sure it’s anything but boring.