The new BMW i3 delivers where it matters most with 440 miles of range, 800V ultra-fast charging, and Neue Klasse EV style.
Meet the new BMW i3 Neue Klasse EV
BMW unveiled the new i3 on Wednesday, the second Neue Klasse EV and first electric sedan in the lineup. Alongside the iX3 SUV, the midsize electric sedan is considered one of BMW’s most important vehicles (EV or gas-powered) in company history.
The BMW Neue Klasse was initially a lineup of sporty, midsize cars designed to fill the gap between its entry-level vehicles and the large luxury models.
Now, BMW is reviving the Neue Klasse, or “New Class,” for its next-generation electric vehicles, set to write the luxury brand’s next chapter.
The new i3 is nothing like its predecessor, with a “technological quantum leap.” Based on its sixth-gen eDrive (Gen6) with an 800-volt electric architecture, BMW said its latest tech offers “significantly longer ranges, even faster charging, up to 400 kW DC charging, and bidirectional charging functionality.”
Compared to Gen5 vehicles, the driving range has improved by an impressive 30% while charging speeds are 30% faster.
30% more driving range and 30% faster charging
According to BMW, the new i3 has an estimated driving range of up to 440 miles (based on preliminary tests conducted under EPA standards). Under WLTP conditions, the new i3 will have one of the longest ranges of any EV, with up to 900 km (559 miles).
With up to 400 kW DC fast charging, the electric sedan can regain nearly 250 miles (440 km) of range in just 10 minutes.
Like most automakers, BMW is adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS), starting with the Neue Klasse models arriving this year. The i3 and iX3 will feature a built-in NACS charge port for recharging at Tesla Superchargers.
The i3 50 xDrive (AWD) features electric motors on both the front and rear axles, delivering a combined 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. We will learn specs for other trims closer to launch.
The ultimate road trip EV?
Although it retains the classic 3 Series look, BMW gave the new i3 a Neue Klasse facelift. The new i3 features BMW’s new kidney grille and “four-eye face” design, similar to those of the iX3.
The interior is also overhauled with BMW’s Neue Klasse styling. 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 windshield.
BMW updated the steering wheel design with easier-to-use multifunction buttons and distinctive thumb rests. An optional M Sport steering wheel features spokes at the four- and eight-o’clock positions.
At the heart of it all are four “superbrain” computers that BMW said delivers 20% higher computing power than its previous models.
Top comment by Grant
I think BMW has a real hit with the new i3. ICEVs are already obsolete, but 400+ mile ranges will expedite adoption for EVs even in the US.
BMW will begin production of the new i3 at its Munich plant in Germany in August 2026, with deliveries following in the autumn.
Although prices have yet to be announced, the new i3 will likely start at around $50,000 to $55,000. On BMW’s website, the iX3 50 xDrive, set to arrive this summer, is listed with a starting MSRP of around $60,000.
When it arrives, BMW’s new i3 will go up against the Tesla Model 3, the Mercedes-Benz electric C-Class, and several other upcoming midsize “luxury” electric sedans.
What do you think of the Neue Klasse BMW i3? With 440 miles of range, ultra-fast charging, and a tech-loaded cabin, it will make road trips that much easier. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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