BMW will unveil the Neue Klasse i3 electric sedan on March 18. The model will join the company’s Neue Klasse range of electric vehicles, which is expected to begin with the iX3 electric SUV.
The Neue Klasse i3 will act as the electric counterpart of the next-generation BMW 3 Series. The company is also reintroducing the ‘i3’ nameplate for this sedan. Earlier, the name was used for an electric hatchback that remained in production until 2022.
Design Influenced by Vision Neue Klasse Concept
The exterior design of the upcoming i3 is expected to draw elements from the Vision Neue Klasse concept that was revealed in 2023. Teaser images indicate a wraparound LED headlamp and daytime running light setup similar to the upcoming iX3. The front fascia also appears to include a horizontally illuminated grille inspired by the concept model. Air vents positioned on the sides of the front bumper can also be seen in the preview images.
Interior and Technology
The interior layout of the Neue Klasse i3 is expected to follow the design approach introduced with the upcoming iX3. The cabin may feature a minimal dashboard layout with a wide panoramic display extending across the base of the windscreen. BMW is also expected to include a 17.9-inch infotainment screen running the brand’s Operating System X.
Possible Powertrain Setup
The Neue Klasse i3 could use the same powertrain configuration planned for the iX3. This setup includes a 108.7 kWh battery pack paired with a dual-motor system. In the iX3, this configuration produces 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque, with a claimed WLTP driving range of up to 805 km.
Electric M3 Planned for 2027
BMW is also preparing an electric version of the M3 based on the Neue Klasse platform. The model is expected to arrive in 2027. The electric M3 is likely to use a quad-motor system and a battery pack of around 100 kWh. Reports suggest it may also include simulated gearshift functions.
Segment Rivals
Once introduced, the Neue Klasse i3 is expected to compete with models such as the Tesla Model 3, Audi A4 e-tron and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV in the electric sedan segment.
