BMW revives the i3 badge as an electric 3 Series with a 900km range

BMW has finally unveiled the new electric 3 Series sedan, which is officially called the i3.

This is not to be confused with the old i3 hatch, which was BMW’s first mass-produced electric vehicle. 

As the second model released from BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ range, the i3 is a radical departure from the traditional 3 Series styling. 

BMW New Zealand has confirmed we will be receiving just one variant of the i3 in early 2027.

This will be the dual-motor 50 xDrive, which features an all-wheel drive system, and produces 345kW/645Nm. 

Performance figures are yet to be revealed, but the 0-100km/h time should be in the region of 4.5 to 5 seconds.

While BMW has specified the size of the battery in this model, it likely uses the same 108kWh NMC unit as the iX3 50 xDrive. 

This battery is reportedly good for a range of 900km in the i3, which will make this sedan one of the longest-range EVs offered in New Zealand. 

It also makes use of 800V electric architecture, which provides a charging rate of up to 400kW. This means 400km of range can be added in 10 minutes, according to the brand. 

On the inside, the interior of this new i3 looks just as radical as the exterior, with a squared-off steering wheel, and an angular 17.9-inch infotainment display.

There’s also a huge BMW Panoramic Vision display that runs from each windscreen pillar, providing driving information. 

There’s a phone charger in the centre console, and BMW’s simple plastic tab for selecting gears. 

You’ll also notice that almost all the buttons have disappeared, meaning most functions will have to be accessed through the displays. 

There’s also an optional panoramic sunroof, and seats that make use of electronic adjustability. 

BMW has confirmed production of this new i3 will commence in August 2026, with local deliveries kicking off early 2027. 

Local pricing and final specifications will be revealed closer to the launch date.