BMW Neue Klasse i3 Set For Global Debut On March 18

The i3 will be the second BMW Neue Klasse model after the iX3. Upon debut, the BMW i3 will lock horns with Tesla Model 3, Audi A4 e-Tron, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV.

BMW has officially confirmed that its next Neue Klasse EV — the i3 — will break cover on March 18. The German marque has also teased the same on its social media handles. In essence, the i3 is the fully-electric counterpart to the upcoming new-generation BMW 3 Series. Prototypes of the upcoming electric sedan are currently undergoing a comprehensive test programme at the BMW Group winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden.

Production of the BMW i3 will commence in the second half of 2026 with an expected market launch in Europe around late 2026 or early 2027. With this move, the ‘i3’ nameplate will return to the brand’s electric line-up. It was earlier used on an electric hatchback that was discontinued in 2022.

BMW i3: Expected Exterior & Interiors

Recent images shared by BMW indicate that the i3 will be based on the Vision Neue Klasse concept revealed in 2023. As a result, it is likely to retain the familiar 3 Series silhouette, characterised by a long hood, short overhangs and a rear-wheel-drive stance. The LED headlamp setup seems familiar to the concept prototype seen earlier. However, the illuminated kidney grille is expected to feature a horizontally oriented design, replacing the tall vertical layout seen on the BMW iX3.

The body panels appear to have a smoother finish than those on the concept, while the signature ‘Hofmeister kink’ has been retained at the C-pillar. At the rear, the battery-powered car could house horizontally positioned trapezoidal taillamps, similar to those seen on the BMW Vision Neue Klasse concept.

The interiors of the BMW i3 are still under wraps but it is expected to draw inspiration from its Neue Klasse SUV sibling — iX3. Hence, we can expect a floating dashboard that houses a massive 17.9-inch central infotainment system that runs on BMW’s Operating System X. Other highlights expected inside the cabin are ambient-lit fabric surfaces, and an optional panoramic roof.

Also READ: Next-Gen Volkswagen Golf Teased, Global Debut In 2028

BMW i3: Expected Powertrain

The BMW i3 is expected to share its powertrain with the iX3. The latter gets a 108.7 kWh NMC battery pack paired with a dual-motor setup that claims a range of 805 km (WLTP) on a full charge. The motors deliver a combined output of 464 bhp and 645 Nm of torque. The 800V architecture can support up to 400 kW of DC fast charging while AC charging peaks at 22 kW.