Following the iX3, which Car Magazine sampled for a first drive at its international launch event in 2025, BMW has revealed its second Neue Klasse model, the i3. Unveiled in 50 xDrive guise, the first all-electric 3 Series is equipped with two electric motors, sited on the fore and aft axles, respectively. The twin electric-motor arrangement produces combined power and torque outputs of 345kW and 645Nm. BMW has yet to announce a 0-100km/h sprint time and top speed.

For reference, the current-generation M340i xDrive’s 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine produces 285kW and 500Nm. While not as powerful as the (390kW) M3 Competition xDrive, the i3’s torque output nearly matches what is produced by the latter – 650Nm.

The i3 features the Bavarian brand’s sixth-generation eDrive system, which incorporates 800V electric architecture – the latter supporting bi-directional charging functions such as vehicle-to-load, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid. The high-voltage setup also allows for DC fast charging of up to 400W. Although the automaker has yet to release battery capacity, it has stated a 10-minute DC charge provides 400km of range. The i3 has a claimed operating range of up to 900km on the Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure cycle.

The i3’s sculpted bodywork, which features a ‘2.5 box design’, measures 4 760mm in length and 1 865mm in width, making it 64mm longer and 38mm wider than the current-generation 3 Series. The i3’s wheelbase is longer, too – 2 897 vs 2 851mm. The i3 stands 40mm taller than the 3 Series, at 1 480mm.

Stepping inside, the i3’s cabin is familiar to the iX3’s, and plays host to BMW’s Panoramic Vision display, which spans the base of the windscreen, a 17.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and a 3D head-up display.

As a reminder, as Car Magazine reported in January 2026, the i3 will also spawn a full-fat M model, which has been confirmed for 2027.

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The post BMW i3 revealed as first all-electric 3 Series appeared first on CAR Magazine.

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