Following an earlier leak, BMW has officially revealed its new electric 3 Series, called the i3. It boasts some impressive figures, including 345kW of dual-motor power, and a range of up to 900km.
Yep, 900km range. That’s under the WLTP test cycle, and only a preliminary figure at this stage. But, by the time it arrives in Australia in early 2027, it’ll offer one of the longest ranges of any EV on the market.
Now, obviously the design is one of the other main talking points. It takes on BMW’s latest ‘Neue Klasse’ philosophy, that seems to at least try and incorporate historically-inspired themes, such as the twin grilles at the front, while pouring in plenty of modern touches.
This is the second model under the Neue Klasse theme, following the iX3. It’ll soon be joined by the all-new X5, which was recently leaked online (above), showing a glimpse of the rear end and silhouette and new-look front grille.
Full specifications for Australia are yet to be finalised, but, globally, it’ll be offered in ’50 xDrive’ trim featuring two electric motors that combine to produce 345kW and 645Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h hasn’t been mentioned.
It’ll be capable of taking in a 400kW DC charge thanks to its 800V electrical architecture, while drive system management is controlled by BMW’s new ‘Heart of Joy’ computer.
Other highlights include V2L charging, as well as V2G (vehicle-to-grid) and vehicle-to-home bidirectional capability. There’s also a new Panoramic iDrive system inside, and 17.9-inch touch-screen display.
More details and specs will be confirmed as it approaches market entry in Australia during the early stages of 2027. A combustion-engined 3 Series will also be revealed soon.
