China is protecting the i3 sedan all to itself, however issues shall be completely different with the subsequent technology. The present EV primarily based on the omnipresent CLAR platform shall be retired to make method for a Neue Klasse-based successor. This time round, BMW will promote the automobile everywhere in the world. Moreover, a long-wheelbase by-product for the Chinese language market is within the works.
Earlier than the world premiere subsequent yr, the usual i3 stars in a brand new spy video. Taken in northern Europe, the footage reveals a number of prototypes of what BMW calls the “NA0” internally. As in earlier situations, we’re getting the impression of a barely smaller sedan than the present 3 Sequence “G20.” It’s refreshing to see basic silver wheels once more after years of black and two-tone finishes.
Hiding beneath the swirly camo is kind of a manufacturing model of the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept. BMW is introducing a totally recent design language that takes the “much less is extra” strategy. The decluttered styling ought to convey smoother surfaces, shifting away from the present in-your-face strategy. We’ll first see the brand new look on the iX3 in September earlier than all fashions embrace it this decade. Not simply electrical vehicles but additionally these powered by combustion engines.
Equally, the minimalist interiors shall be shared between ICE and EV fashions. BMW has already given us an correct preview by revealing the brand new iDrive. It’s primarily based round a big middle display, which you received’t be capable of management through the same old rotary knob. The normal dial/controller on the decrease middle console won’t be installed in future models.
BMW has confirmed the i3 will enter sequence manufacturing in Munich subsequent yr. We’ve heard it’s scheduled to hit the meeting line in July 2026, so the world premiere could possibly be roughly 12 months away. Anticipate a large lineup with rear- and all-wheel-drive variations, together with a scorching i3 M60 xDrive. An electrical M3 (“ZA0”) is allegedly earmarked for a late 2027 launch.
Video: CarSpyMedia / YouTube
