Why the BMW i3 Sedan Would possibly Be Extra Thrilling Than the iX3

The BMW iX3 is making waves proper now, and for good motive. It’s a really tech-capable electrical crossover that guarantees to carry BMW’s driving dynamics into the EV period with spectacular specs and real-world functionality. However for those who’ll permit me to be trustworthy for a second: the iX3 isn’t the automobile conserving me up at evening. That honor belongs to its sedan sibling, the BMW i3.

Sure, I do know — in a world completely dominated by SUVs and crossovers, getting excited a few sedan might sound quaint, even contrarian. However hear me out. The i3 sedan isn’t simply one other electrical four-door. It could possibly be the automobile that defines BMW’s future, the one which reminds us why we fell in love with the Final Driving Machine within the first place.

In Protection of the Three-Field Sedan

Let’s begin with the elephant within the showroom: sedans are uncommon today. Crossovers have taken over, and I get the enchantment — area, versatility, that commanding driving place. However sedans, notably BMW sedans, are what put this model on the map. The unique BMW 1500 that saved the corporate within the Sixties? A sedan. The long-lasting 2002 that established BMW’s sporting credentials? A two-door sedan. The E30 3 Collection that outlined a technology? Sedan.

The brand new i3 continues this legacy with what BMW calls a “2.5 field design” — a contemporary interpretation of basic sedan proportions that pays homage to these legendary automobiles. In an period the place each electrical automobile appears to be both a bloated crossover or a swoopy coupe-SUV factor, the i3’s clear, purposeful sedan form is refreshingly trustworthy. It says: I’m right here to drive, to not make a trend assertion.

Constructed for Electrons, Not Compromises

Right here’s the place issues get technically thrilling. The i3 is predicated on BMW’s Neue Klasse structure, which is EV-first, not EV-also. In contrast to conversion automobiles — automobiles constructed on platforms designed to accommodate a number of powertrains — the i3 doesn’t make compromises. We’ve already seen hints of this within the Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea: higher packaging, extra inside area, optimized weight distribution.

The platform brings an 800-volt structure able to charging at over 400 kW. That’s lightning-fast, even by 2026 requirements. Mixed with BMW’s sixth-generation battery expertise, we’re spectacular vary figures — doubtless exceeding what the iX3 presents. Why? Easy physics: if the i3 is roughly related in dimension or smaller than the iX3, with higher aerodynamics (sedans usually have decrease drag coefficients than SUVs) and decrease weight, it must be considerably extra environment friendly.

The Final Electrical Driving Machine

Now we get to the center of the matter: the way it drives. I had the privilege of driving the iX3 as a prototype, and I got here away impressed. The chassis dynamics, the steering really feel, the way in which it manages its weight — it was genuinely participating. And right here’s the factor: if a taller, heavier crossover can drive that properly, think about what the i3 can be like. And that’s precisely what I acknowledged six months in the past.

The i3 sedan advantages from a decrease heart of gravity — physics that may’t be negotiated away. It shares the identical three-supercomputer structure because the iX3, together with the “Coronary heart of Pleasure” system devoted to driving dynamics. With energy anticipated to match or exceed the iX3’s output, this automobile must be an absolute riot to drive. Decrease weight, higher weight distribution, extra responsive dealing with — every part factors to a automobile that can remind you why BMW earned the “Final Driving Machine” tagline.

Take into account the present i4. It’s constructed on the CLAR platform, basically a conversion structure that was designed to accommodate inner combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and full EVs. Regardless of these compromises, the i4 drives phenomenally properly. Now think about what BMW can obtain with a purpose-built EV platform and sedan packaging. The i3 might genuinely be the final word electrical sedan.

A Defining Second in BMW Historical past?

I notice this may sound hyperbolic, however stick with me a bit extra: the i3 could possibly be as important to BMW’s historical past because the 1500, the 2002, or the E30. These automobiles outlined what BMW stood for of their respective eras. The 1500 established the corporate as a maker of sporting sedans. The 2002 proved that small could possibly be thrilling. The E30 perfected the system and have become a cultural icon.

The i3 has the chance to do the identical factor for the electrical period. It could possibly be the automobile that proves electrical automobiles don’t need to sacrifice driving engagement for effectivity, that sedans nonetheless have an important function to play, that BMW can transition to electrification with out shedding its soul. Fifty years from now, fans may look again on the i3 because the second BMW efficiently reimagined itself for a brand new age.

Certain, in the present day we’re nonetheless in love with combustion-powered BMWs as a result of…sound, however 50 years from now, the automotive panorama may look totally different and driving dynamics will as soon as once more set aside some firms.

Give Me the Sedan

The upcoming BMW i3 represents every part I like about BMW: purposeful design, cutting-edge expertise in service of driving pleasure, and the braveness to prioritize engagement over practicality. So sure, the iX3 is spectacular. I’m genuinely excited for individuals who purchase one — they’ll like it. However when it comes time to make my selection? Give me the enjoyable BMW. I’m keen to take fewer children and fewer luggage with me.

The iX3 may be the thrill in the present day, however the i3 is the longer term I’m betting on. And I can’t wait to drive it.