BMW Brings Back the i3 as a Funky Four-Door EV

March 18, 2026

TL;DR

The new BMW i3 is a four-door electric sedan based on the Neue Klasse platform.
It utilizes the same electric motor, battery, and electronics as the iX3 SUV.
The design emphasizes horizontality, with a full-width light bar on the front.
It is not a continuation of the previous i3 hatchback but a 'retcon' with a new architecture.
The i3 50 xDrive model features dual electric motors providing 469 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque.
It uses cylindrical battery cells in a cell-to-pack configuration for higher energy density.
Estimated range is 440 miles, with 400kW charging adding over 200 miles in 10 minutes.
Motors are permanent magnet-free, avoiding rare earths and allowing coasting without a disconnect system.
The car features a 'soft stop' function using regenerative braking.
The new i3 is larger than the current 3 Series sedan, with a longer wheelbase.
Interior technology includes Panoramic Vision, a 3D heads-up display, and a 17.9-inch touchscreen.
It includes advanced driver-assistance systems and a software-defined architecture ready for OTA updates.
In-car voice control will leverage large language models and Amazon Alexa for advanced interactions.
The estimated starting price in the US is around $60,000.
Manufacturing is set to begin in August of this year.

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