BMW i3 Neue Klasse Saloon 2026: After years of teasers, futuristic concepts, and camouflaged prototypes, BMW has finally unveiled its first production-ready Neue Klasse saloon. Reviving the i3 nameplate, this new electric sedan will serve as the fully electrified version of the next-generation BMW 3 Series, combining heritage with cutting-edge technology.
The i3 Neue Klasse represents more than just a new model—it’s the start of BMW’s boldest transformation yet. Built on the Neue Klasse platform, the i3 will introduce a host of innovations, including new battery chemistry, improved aerodynamics, advanced digital features, and the striking shark-nose design language inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept.
Expected to officially launch in 2026, the BMW i3 will carry a 108.7 kWh battery pack (shared with the iX3 SUV), offering a range expected to exceed 500 miles on a single charge. Positioned against rivals like the Tesla Model 3, Mercedes EQE, and Audi A4 e-tron, the i3 is set to redefine what a premium electric saloon should be.
BMW i3 Neue Klasse Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | BMW i3 Neue Klasse Saloon (2026) |
| Platform | Neue Klasse (dedicated EV) |
| Battery Pack | 108.7 kWh (shared with iX3) |
| Range | ~500 miles (WLTP, est.) |
| Body Style | 4-door saloon (electric 3 Series equivalent) |
| Design Features | Shark-nose front, wide illuminated kidney grille, three-box proportions |
| Interior | Next-gen iDrive, panoramic displays, sustainable materials |
| Powertrain Options | Multiple variants (RWD, xDrive AWD), M3 electric performance model planned |
| Production Start | 2026 |
| Launch Timeline | Global rollout starting 2026, part of BMW’s 40 new models before 2027 |
Exterior Design
The BMW i3 Neue Klasse saloon stays true to the Vision Neue Klasse concept, blending futuristic styling with classic BMW cues. It features a shark-nose front end, a wide illuminated kidney grille, and slim LED headlights. The three-box silhouette retains the sporty DNA of the 3 Series, while aerodynamic details help maximize efficiency.
Expect flush door handles, bold proportions, and large wheels—all of which give the i3 a distinct premium EV identity without straying too far from BMW tradition.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the i3 will showcase BMW’s next-generation iDrive system, with panoramic digital displays, augmented reality overlays, and voice-first controls. Sustainable materials and minimalist design are expected, aligning with BMW’s push towards eco-friendly luxury.
Like the Vision Neue Klasse, the cabin may feature a full-width information display and a central curved screen for infotainment. Expect advanced driver assistance features (Level 3-ready in some markets) and seamless over-the-air updates.
Battery and Performance
The heart of the BMW i3 Neue Klasse is its 108.7 kWh battery pack, also used in the iX3 SUV. With BMW’s sixth-generation battery cells, efficiency gains of up to 30% higher density are expected compared to current BMW EVs.
Range is projected at up to 500 miles WLTP, a figure that would place the i3 ahead of many rivals, including Tesla’s Model 3 Long Range. Charging speeds are expected to exceed 270 kW DC, enabling a 10–80% charge in under 25 minutes on high-power networks.
Driving Dynamics and M Variants
BMW has confirmed that the Neue Klasse platform will underpin both standard i3 saloons and high-performance electric M3 variants. This means buyers can expect rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with instant torque and handling tuned to BMW’s sporty DNA.
For enthusiasts, the thought of a fully electric M3 saloon alongside the petrol M3 shows BMW’s intent to keep performance alive in the EV era.
Launch Date and Availability
The BMW i3 Neue Klasse saloon is expected to be officially unveiled in 2025, with sales beginning in 2026. It will be one of 40 new or updated BMW models launched before 2027, marking a massive product offensive from the brand.
Initial launches will target Europe, North America, and China, with a global rollout to follow.
Price and Rivals
Pricing has not been confirmed, but the i3 Neue Klasse is expected to start around £55,000–£60,000 in the UK (€65,000 in Europe, $70,000 in the US). This positions it squarely against the Tesla Model 3, Mercedes EQE, Polestar 5, and Audi A4 e-tron.
The upcoming electric M3 variant will likely push the price higher, competing with Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S Plaid territory.
Conclusion
The return of the BMW i3 nameplate in 2026 represents a historic moment for the brand. No longer a quirky city EV, the i3 Neue Klasse saloon is a serious premium electric sedan, designed to carry forward the legacy of the 3 Series into the EV age.
Its combination of striking design, next-gen technology, and groundbreaking battery range puts it in prime position to disrupt the executive EV market. For buyers who want the familiar BMW driving experience but in an electrified package, the i3 could be the perfect bridge.
What’s most exciting is BMW’s broader commitment—this i3 is just the first of many Neue Klasse models. With the iX3 already revealed and more saloons and SUVs coming, BMW is clearly preparing for a fully electric future.
By reviving an iconic name and pairing it with its most advanced EV platform yet, BMW has ensured that the i3 will be remembered not just as a rebirth, but as a turning point in automotive history.
FAQs of BMW i3 Neue Klasse Saloon 2026
1. Is the BMW i3 coming back?
Yes. The BMW i3 name is being revived for the Neue Klasse saloon, an all-electric version of the 3 Series. Unlike the old i3 city car, the new i3 is a large premium EV sedan with up to 500 miles of range.
2. What battery does the BMW i3 Neue Klasse use?
The i3 will feature a 108.7 kWh battery pack with BMW’s sixth-generation battery cells, offering higher energy density and faster charging. This is the same battery as the iX3 SUV, enabling long-distance travel.
3. How far can the new BMW i3 go on a charge?
BMW estimates the i3 Neue Klasse saloon will achieve up to 500 miles WLTP on a single charge, making it one of the longest-range EVs in its segment.
4. When will the BMW i3 Neue Klasse launch?
The BMW i3 will be officially revealed in 2025 and go on sale globally in 2026. It is part of BMW’s plan to launch 40 new models or updates by 2027.
5. How much will the BMW i3 Neue Klasse cost?
While exact pricing is not confirmed, the i3 is expected to start at around £55,000–£60,000 in the UK ($70,000 in the US). Performance variants like the electric M3 will command a higher price.
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