BMW Unveils 2027 i3: The All-Electric 3 Series Sedan

MALAGA, Spain—Late last year, we got our first chance to drive the new BMW iX3. An all-electric version of one of BMW's best-sellers, the electric SUV is arguably the new head of the class in the competitive premium SUV EV segment, with good driving dynamics and an extremely efficient electric powertrain. The next new BMW EVs to use the company's Neue Klasse platform is the one we find more interesting here at Ars, even if it won't sell as well. It's the 2027 i3, or BMW's first 3 series EV, and it goes into production in Munich this August.

A Proper Sedan

It has been a few years since we first saw the Neue Klasse sedan concept, and it has mostly remained faithful to that design as it made the transition from concept to production model. Light has replaced chrome for BMW's traditional kidney grille, which here contains kidneys within kidneys. Like the iX3, there's a valley down the hood, but here the kidney grille elements stretch farther back, giving the front end a more aerodynamic and clean-cut appearance.

The i3 is a proper sedan, not a hatchback like the old i3 EV. It has a long, sleek profile with a gently sloping roofline that gives it a more premium and sophisticated look compared to the upright stance of the old i3. The rear lights have a familiar 3 series shape but with a more modern and geometric design. Overall, the i3 looks like a natural evolution of the 3 series design language, just with a more aerodynamic and electric-focused aesthetic.

Inside, the i3 has a very driver-focused cabin, with a digital instrument cluster and a large central touchscreen. The materials and build quality feel suitably premium for a BMW, with a mix of soft-touch plastics, leather, and wood accents. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's a good amount of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Neue Klasse EV Platform

Under the skin, the i3 is built on BMW's new Neue Klasse EV platform, which promises significant efficiency and performance improvements over the brand's previous electric architectures. The battery pack is mounted low in the chassis for a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution, while the electric motors provide instant torque and nimble handling.

BMW is targeting a range of up to 400 miles (650 km) for the i3, with the ability to charge from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes using a high-power DC fast charger. The regenerative braking system has been tuned to provide a seamless and intuitive driving experience, blending energy recovery with traditional friction brakes.

Overall, the 2027 BMW i3 promises to be a compelling entry in the premium electric sedan segment, offering a dynamic driving experience combined with the latest in EV technology and a sleek, modern design. With production slated to begin in Munich this August, BMW enthusiasts and electric car buyers alike will have an exciting new option to consider when shopping for their next premium sedan.