BMW launches 2027 i3 with up to 468-mile range and $61,500 price
BMW’s new i3 electric sedan claims up to 468 miles of range, dual-motor AWD and fast-charging tech, but the starting price is $61,500 before fees.
BMW has unveiled the 2027 i3, a new electric sedan that aims to push the boundaries of range and technology in the premium EV segment. The company estimates the i3 will offer up to 468 miles of range, placing it among the longest-range electric vehicles announced to date. The car starts at $61,500, before a $1,350 destination fee, and reservations are now open in the US with a $1,000 deposit required.
Overview of the 2027 BMW i3
Performance and Powertrain
The first version to launch will be the i3 50 xDrive, which features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. This setup produces 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims the i3 50 xDrive can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, making it competitive with other premium electric saloons in terms of straight-line performance. The car is built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, a new architecture designed specifically for the brand’s next generation of electric vehicles.
The i3’s 800V electrical system is a significant upgrade over BMW’s current 400V models. This higher voltage is intended to reduce charging times, although BMW has not yet provided specific figures for how quickly the battery can be replenished. The Neue Klasse platform is expected to underpin a range of future BMW electric models, supporting advances in efficiency, battery technology, and driver experience.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the 2027 i3 introduces new digital features. The Panoramic Vision display stretches across the dashboard, providing a wide digital interface for the driver. This is paired with a large 17.9-inch infotainment screen, which sits at the centre of the interior and controls most vehicle functions. This move towards a digital-first interior aligns with trends seen in other premium electric vehicles, emphasising minimalism and connectivity.
BMW has not yet detailed all of the i3’s interior features, but the focus on advanced displays and digital controls is clear. The company is positioning the i3 as a technological showcase, with the Neue Klasse platform allowing for future updates and enhancements.
Specifications and Features
| Powertrain | Dual-motor AWD |
|---|---|
| Power | 463 hp |
| Torque | 476 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds (BMW claim) |
| Platform | Neue Klasse |
| Range (BMW estimate) | Up to 468 miles |
| Infotainment screen | 17.9 inches |
| Charging architecture | 800V |
| Starting price (excl. destination) | $61,500 |
Charging and Range
The 800V charging system in the i3 is designed to enable faster charging sessions compared to previous BMW electric models. While the company has not yet released detailed charging time figures, this technology is already used by some competitors to achieve rapid charge rates. The estimated range of up to 468 miles, if realised in everyday driving, would set a new benchmark for BMW and put the i3 near the top of its class for single-charge distance. However, independent testing will be needed to confirm these numbers in real-world use.
Pricing and Market Position
With a starting price of $61,500 before fees, the 2027 BMW i3 is positioned above many mainstream electric vehicles but remains less expensive than some luxury rivals. The $1,000 reservation deposit follows industry practice for premium electric launches. The i3’s pricing reflects its advanced technology, long range, and premium features, targeting buyers seeking a high-end electric sedan.
BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which debuts with the i3, is expected to be the basis for several future electric models from the brand. This move signals BMW’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle range and competing with other leading manufacturers in the premium EV space.
Future Variants and the i3 Nameplate
BMW has announced that a sportier i3 60 xDrive variant is planned for 2027, although details on its performance and pricing have not yet been released. This suggests that BMW will expand the i3 line-up to cater to drivers seeking even more performance or additional features. The company has not provided a timeline for when more information about the i3 60 xDrive will become available.
The i3 nameplate has a history within BMW’s electric efforts, previously appearing on the compact BMW i3 hatchback, which was offered with and without a range extender. The new 2027 i3 sedan represents a significant evolution, moving the i3 badge into a larger, more luxurious, and more technologically advanced segment. For those interested in the evolution of the i3 nameplate or BMW’s earlier electric efforts, see our coverage of the BMW i3 with Range Extender.
Summary
The 2027 BMW i3 enters the market with a focus on long range, rapid charging, and advanced digital features. Its estimated 468-mile range and 800V charging architecture set it apart from many existing rivals, while its pricing positions it as a premium alternative in the electric sedan segment. As BMW prepares to expand its electric offerings on the Neue Klasse platform, the new i3 is set to play a key role in the brand’s future strategy. Buyers considering the i3 will want to monitor for independent range tests and further announcements on additional variants as the launch approaches.
