MUNICH: The new BMW i3 can cover up to 900km (WLTP test cycle) on a single charge.
It features sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology with 800-volt architecture and 400kW rapid charging (up to 400km in 10 minutes).
The i3 launches with the 50 xDrive model variant, which is powered by two electric motors which drive the front and rear axle to develop a combined system output of 469hp and 645Nm of torque.
The new i3 also offers class-leading driving dynamics elevated by a new “superbrain” digital architecture and the Heart of Joy driving dynamics system.
Highlights include a driver-oriented cockpit featuring BMW Panoramic iDrive and BMW Operating System X.
The new i3 is built at the home of BMW Group, Plant Munich which has undergone a significant expansion for the Neue Klasse.
Production will start in August 2026.
Handling is precise thanks to the Heart of Joy superbrain – responsible for all driving functions.
It combines with three additional high-performance computers – covering automated driving, infotainment and comfort-enhancing functions – culminating in a new digital nervous system, developed completely in-house by BMW.
These superbrains offer up to 20 times more processing power than those utilised by previous BMW models.
The new i3 offers a modern interpretation of hallmark BMW saloon design with its new 2.5-box silhouette.
The front-end is sculpted in a sporty shark-nose design and centred around a reimagined horizontal kidney grille.
The side profile features pronounced wheel arches, retractable flush door handles that extend automatically, and bold lines that flow to the rear.
Here, sweeping horizontal taillights in an L-shaped design flank the refreshed BMW roundel and extend far into the shoulder area to emphasise the vehicle’s wide stance.
Eleven exterior paint finishes are available from launch, including new M Le Castellet Blue – exclusive to the new i3.
Sporty and contemporary, the cockpit is optimised around the driver.
Positioned front and centre is the BMW Panoramic iDrive, which consists of four key components: the BMW Panoramic Vision display, the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, the driver-oriented Central Display and the new multi-function steering wheel.
Stylish and sustainable materials are used for the upholstery, including Econeer seat covers, which consist of a recyclable textile composite made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.
The new i3 is equipped with a portfolio of driver and parking assistance systems, including Soft-Stop which offers the smoothest stopping process in BMW history.
With Soft-Stop, the electric motors' precise control ensures the new i3 decelerates smoothly without any jerks or braking noise.
In everyday driving, the recuperation brake takes over almost all braking operations in the i3.
The friction brakes are only utilised during sporty driving or when emergency braking is required.
Meanwhile, Driving Assistant Plus takes the strain out of steering and braking.
If desired, it controls the speed and distance from the vehicle in front and helps the driver to keep the vehicle comfortably in the lane.
The system can automatically detect recognised speed limits and adjust the speed before bends, roundabouts and turns.
