The 3 Series is one of the iconic models under BMW’s diverse model lineup. Arguably, it is regarded as one of the vehicles that raised the benchmark on how a sports sedan should be. BMW aims to keep the 3 Series’ legacy as it ushers in the electric era with the all-new BMW i3 50 xDrive.
As it enters a new era, the fully electric BMW i3 comes with design and engineering philosophy from the German automaker’s Neue Klasse concept. BMW shared that Neue Klasse is the start of the new BMW model generation, as it represents the company’s venture in the electric vehicle (EV) era. The all-new i3 is the second model to be revealed under BMW’s Neue Klasse concept, with the first being the iX3 SUV.
That said, the 3 Series received a massive design revamp, as seen on the new exterior styling. It has a sharp-looking demeanor brought upon by the angular details and crisp character lines. The sharp exterior styling is complemented by a modern appeal, which can be seen in the all-new BMW i3’s front fascia.
Up front, BMW’s iconic kidney grille design has been given a new look as it now merges seamlessly with the headlights, forming a cohesive look. The front end’s sharp finish is complemented by the angular bumper and the sculpted hood. Turning at the side, the all-new BMW i3 has straight character lines along with flush door handles, prominent fender flares, adding muscle to the EV’s overall look.
The sharp and modern Neue Klasse design concept continues to be seen at the rear, as it is fitted with distinctive horizontal taillights. The rear bumper, on the other hand, comes with a chiseled finish, which further highlights the BMW i3’s assertive exterior.
Inside, the all-new BMW i3 has a contemporary interior theme that exudes a modern cabin that would put a smile on tech-savvy individuals. The dashboard has a clean look and has no buttons for vehicle functions. You can’t help but notice the massive 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen placed in the middle, which is subtly angled towards the driver to ensure easier control. Another thing that stands out is the steering wheel, which comes with a two-spoke design.
Adding to the modern cabin theme is the BMW Panoramic Vision, which extends throughout the whole width of the windshield, placed into the driver’s field of vision. The all-new BMW i3 also has an optional 3D head-up display. The center console is where BMW decided to integrate some buttons for functions like hazard lights, gear selector, and parking brake.
The all-new BMW i3 50 XDrive is equipped with front and rear electric motors that generate 469 horsepower and 645 Nm of torque. BMW claims that the i3 EV can provide a pure electric driving range of up to 900 kilometers (WLTP), and the DC fast charger can recharge energy for up to 400 km in 10 minutes.
The BMW i3 also features bidirectional charging functions, Vehicle-to-Load (optional AC charging Professional required), Vehicle-to-Home, and Vehicle-to-Grid charging functions.
Autocar’s Take
BMW is going all-in when it comes to introducing new models that are fit for the electric vehicle (EV) era. The all-new BMW i3 is a testament to its commitment to developing and introducing models for the EV era. Along with the 3 Series’ legacy, BMW aims to usher in the electric era with the all-new BMW i3 50 xDrive.
Aside from having distinctive exterior and interior design, the all-new BMW i3 comes with a pure EV driving range of up to 900 kilometers, which is a notable number when it comes to EV range. Speaking of which, BYD has developed a new battery that comes with an EV driving range of more than 1,000 kilometers.
