Overview
The BMW i3 represents a critical milestone for BMW, resurrecting an old name to introduce the first electric 3 Series saloon. Built upon the EV-first, 800V Neue Klasse architecture, this compact premium saloon is engineered to challenge established rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric. Positioned as the core electric saloon in the line-up, it prioritises efficiency, range, and traditional driving feel.
Design
The new i3 adopts a classic 2.5-box premium saloon silhouette defined by a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a sweeping roofline. The exterior styling is exceptionally clean, featuring flush door handles and minimal surface lines to maximise aerodynamic efficiency. At the front, the traditional kidney grille has been completely reimagined as a wide, horizontal element that spans the full width of the car, enclosing the headlights, giving the car's a planted stance.
Interior
The cabin is highly minimalist, completely deleting the traditional instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. Instead, driver information is handled by the BMW Panoramic Vision system, a 43.3-inch display projecting information across the entire lower width of the windscreen, which can be complemented by an optional 3D head-up display. Infotainment is handled by a central, angled 17.9-inch touchscreen running the new BMW Operating System X. The physical controls are heavily reduced, with premium recycled textiles and sustainable materials replacing traditional wood or heavy leather interiors for a calm, modern environment.
Performance & Powertrains
At launch, the saloon is offered exclusively in the 50 xDrive configuration, using a dual-motor setup that combines a 322bhp motor at the rear with a 165bhp motor on the front axle. Together, they develop a total system output of 469hp and 645Nm of torque, which is managed by a centralized Heart of Joy driving computer that integrates braking, steering, and power delivery into a single system. Power is drawn from a 108kWh sixth-generation structural battery pack using advanced cylindrical cells. This setup delivers a class-leading range of up to 563 miles. The 800V electrical architecture supports DC rapid charging at speeds up to 400kW, enabling a 249-mile range top-up in 10 minutes, alongside 22kW AC charging capability and bidirectional vehicle-to-home functionality.
Practicality
The shift to a dedicated electric platform allows the i3 to stretch its wheelbase and track further than the current combustion 3 Series, generating super passenger space inside. The flat floor creates generous legroom for rear passengers, eliminating the prominent transmission tunnel intrusion found in older BMW electric models that were just conversions of existing petrol models. The boot layout allows for a massive 520 liter boot that follows a traditional saloon format with split-folding rear seats, complemented by internal storage compartments within the centre console and door pockets.
Buying
Production of the new BMW i3 is scheduled to commence at the expanded Munich plant in August 2026, with the first UK customer deliveries expected to arrive in Autumn. Official prices have not been finalised, but the estimated starting price is around £55,000 for entry models expanding up to around £60,000 for the higher-spec variants. Additional single-motor variants and a touring estate estate body style are expected to follow soon. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the 50 xDrive with aerodynamic wheels to maximise the range available.