BMW fast-tracks the new i3, with reservations now opening next week

BMW will open US reservations for the new i3 early, now scheduled for next week.

BMW moves up i3 reservations in the US

Buyers in the US will get a chance to reserve the new i3 sooner than expected. BMW will open reservations for the new i3 on September 29, a week earlier than planned.

BMW emailed those who signed up for updates on Wednesday, informing them to get ready for next week. Company sources previously told BMWBlog that orders for the new BMW i3 50 xDrive would open in early October.

As with the new iX3, interested buyers will be able to customize their vehicle in the online configurator with a deposit, likely around $1,000.

BMW has yet to announce prices, but it will likely reveal them shortly after reservations open next week. BMW’s US website says the fully electric i3 sedan will be available starting in 2027.

The 2027 BMW i3 will initially be available in one configuration: the all-wheel drive i3 50 xDrive. The dual-motor setup delivers a combined 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque.

Based on its sixth-gen eDrive (Gen6) with a 108.7 kWh battery, the new BMW iX3 has an impressive EPA-estimated range of up to 440 miles on a single charge.

Thanks to its 800V platform, the electric sedan can regain nearly 250 miles (440 km) of range in just 10 minutes using a 400 kW DC fast charger. It also comes with a built-in NACS port so that you can use Tesla Superchargers without a separate adapter.

The interior also gets an overhaul with BMW’s Neue Klasse design. A massive 17.9″ touchscreen infotainment sits at the center with BMW Panoramic Vision and the optional 3D Head-Up Display that stretches across the base of the windshield.

The 2027 BMW i3 50 xDrive is expected to start at about $55,000 to $60,000, given the new iX3 SUV starts at $61,500.

BMW’s new electric sedan will go up against the Tesla Model 3 and the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV, which start at $38,630 and $47,250, respectively.

The new iX3 is already off to a promising start with over 100,000 orders in Europe alone. Will BMW’s electric sedan see the same demand? BMW opened i3 orders in Europe early due to “high levels” of early interest. It looks like the US is next up.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.