BMW i3 to be revealed on 18 March

BMW has a packed 2026 ahead. It began by unveiling the new iX3, the first member of the Neue Klasse family, which will be joined by a further 39 models scheduled to arrive by the end of 2027.

One of the year’s most significant moments will be the eighth-generation 3 Series. For 50 years, this model has embodied the German brand’s DNA, and it is now preparing to enter the electric era. We will not have long to wait: the new BMW i3 will be revealed on 18 March.

BMW i3 reveal on 18 March

Confirmation came from Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW Group’s design director, who posted a teaser on his Instagram account offering a closer look at the German model’s new front-end design.

What do we already know about the i3?

Previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse concept, the electric new 3 Series will use the Neue Klasse platform first introduced by the iX3. As a result, it will also feature the sixth generation of the eDrive system, based on an 800 V electrical architecture and supporting charging power of up to 400 kW.

Like its SUV sibling, the new BMW i3 will initially be offered in xDrive 50 form. This version combines two electric motors - one on each axle - to produce 345 kW (469 hp) and 645 Nm of torque. Battery capacity has not yet been confirmed, although it is expected to match the SUV’s 108.7 kWh usable unit, delivering a range expected to exceed the iX3’s claimed 805 km (WLTP).

BMW plans to introduce further versions later on, with lower outputs and shorter ranges, making the model available to a broader audience.

Neue Klasse technology and the Heart of Joy

As with the new iX3, the i3 will form part of the next generation of “software-defined vehicles” (SDVs), defined by their network of onboard electronic brains and their connections to the outside world.

The new electronic control system, named “Heart of Joy”, acts as a supercomputer coordinating the powertrain, braking, steering and energy recuperation. According to BMW, it responds up to ten times faster than current solutions, providing more accurate reactions and a more natural driving experience.

Another notable feature is the Soft-Stop function, which is designed to make braking smoother and more progressive while reducing vibration and noise when coming to a halt.

When will it arrive?

Ahead of its world premiere, the German manufacturer is conducting the final development tests at its winter testing centre in Arjeplog, northern Sweden. The weather conditions there provide the ideal environment for fine-tuning the chassis, traction and electronic systems.

Production is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. For those who are not keen on the SUV trend, the future BMW 3 Series - in both combustion-engined and electric forms - will continue to be offered as a Touring estate.

In addition, the eighth generation of the 3 Series will not be electric-only. BMW is also preparing a new combustion-engined variant, based on an evolution of the current CLAR platform.

There is positive news for enthusiasts too. The Bavarian manufacturer remains committed to continuing its tradition of offering versions bearing the M badge. Not only will a combustion-engined M3 remain available, but an all-electric M3 will also arrive for the first time.