- A 50 xDrive i3 launch model comes with 469 hp
- The company says it is capable of 900 km (560 miles) WLTP range
- The internet has been divided on how it looks
We knew it was coming, but BMW still managed to create quite a stir by unveiling its Neue Klasse i3 today – arguably the first all-electric 3 Series and probably the most important BMW in recent history.
The company said it was “the very essence” of the BMW brand and as such has seen fit to equip the sharp four-door sedan with a whopping 108kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery capable of delivering just 560 miles.
Launched with the 50 xDrive variant, a dual-motor powertrain develops a combined system output of 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque for quick acceleration and BMW’s renowned performance credentials.
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BMW also says its upcoming i3 offers “class-leading driving dynamics,” thanks to a new “superbrain” digital architecture and Heart of Joy driving dynamics system that debuted on the iX3 electric SUV.
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These high-performance processors can crunch information and sensor data within milliseconds, meaning acceleration, braking and steering are sharper than any electric vehicle the company has produced to date.
Early drives of the iX3 already testify to how well the system works and feels behind the wheel.
What’s more, the 800V electric architecture underpinning both Neue Klasse vehicles is capable of adding up to 250 miles of range in around 10 minutes from a 400kW charger.
Inside, the new i3 takes a similar approach to the iX3, complete with the latest iDrive system and the massive Panoramic Vision strip that runs the full width of the windshield and projects custom widgets onto a black strip.
There’s also an optional head-up display and standard 17.9-inch central touchscreen that’s angled toward the driver.
Plus, BMW is pushing hard into AI voice assistants, thanks in part to their partnership with Amazon and subsequent integration of Alexa Plus into its vehicles.
Analysis: Styling that divides
At least to these eyes, BMW has hit the nail on the head when it comes to the exterior styling of the upcoming i3. It manages to look modern and fresh while giving enough subtle nods back to some of the most beautiful 3 Series models in its history.
It’s low and wide with short overhangs and aggressively flared wheel arches, while the front kidney grille has been reduced from its previous clumsy proportions to something more elegant.
But not everyone likes it. There is a general consensus among Instagram and Reddit users that it looks “Chinese” and that the rear end is not very pretty.
But on the other hand, one Reddit user said it’s the “first real new design language since Flame Surfacing from Chris Bangle” – one of the most controversial BMW designers in recent times.
One subject that hasn’t been heavily criticized is the claimed 560-mile range, which puts BMW firmly ahead in terms of smashing range for potential customers.
In addition to this, the company has also confirmed that there will be a station wagon or wagon version of the i3, as well as a high-performance M3 based on the same platform, which BMW has already stated will “set new standards” for electric performance.
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