BMW reveals the future i3: electric sedan based on the Neue Klasse platform with 3 Series EV performance

BMW is preparing the future i3, but not as the compact hatchback of the past. The new i3 arrives as an electric sedan that can be seen as an EV 3 Series, although the architecture is distinct from the combustion-powered version.

The car will be built on the Neue Klasse platform, promising next-generation design, renewed batteries and motors, as well as advanced electrical and software systems.

What changes with the i3

New technical bases for the model include a completely new architecture, next-generation batteries, and updated electrical and software components.

Exterior and design

The i3 represents BMW's new design language, featuring an illuminated horizontal grille that marks the exterior appearance.

Interior and technology

The cabin brings a wide-screen infotainment system and a dashboard with a panoramic screen. The center stack consists of a 17.9-inch screen for infotainment, with a 43.3-inch Panoramic iDrive screen between the pillars. The BMW also offers four interior themes and options for leather or vegan leather.

Powertrain, performance, and chassis

• Powertrain configurations range from one to four motors, thanks to the Neue Klasse architecture.
• Initially, there will be an all-wheel-drive 50 xDrive version, with 463 hp and 476 lb-ft, distributed between the front and rear axles. BMW has not yet confirmed a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) only version.
• Acceleration similar to an M3, with 0–60 mph in just under 4.0 seconds.

Range and charging

• The estimated range for the AWD model is 440 miles EPA.
• 800-volt architecture and standard NACS port, with peak charging up to 400 kW.
• Based on iX3 data, it may gain over 230 miles of range in 10 minutes and recharge from 10 to 80% in about 20 minutes, under ideal conditions. Level 2 charging can reach over 19 kW.

Safety and driving assistance

• BMW Active Driving Assistant Plus features include frontal automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, side cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Infotainment technology

The i3 will feature BMW's latest infotainment system: a 17.9-inch screen for infotainment, a 43.3-inch Panoramic display, and an optional head-up display. There will be an AI voice assistant and wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

i3M: the fastest M of all?

A four-motor configuration — one for each wheel — is almost confirmed for the version called i3M, with around 1,000 hp. The system would be managed by the Neue Klasse control center, named Heart of Joy, to precisely manage power, torque, and regeneration, promising superior performance, possibly even surpassing the combustion M3.

For those buying with extreme performance, efficiency, or technology in mind — what catches your attention most in this i3 relaunch? Leave your comment below with your expectations.