BMW to Revive i3 Name for Electric 3 Series, Touring Model Planned
BMW is set to revive the i3 name for the electric version of its upcoming eighth-generation 3 Series, which will also be offered with internal combustion engine (ICE) power. The new 3 Series will feature a completely restyled design on an EV-first architecture.
According to BMW Group design boss Adrian van Hooydonk, the brand is likely to continue offering the 3 Series in Touring estate form. “I think the ‘touring’ [estate] is making a comeback,” van Hooydonk stated, referencing the popularity of the M3 Touring and M5 Touring models. The electric i3 Touring is expected to follow the saloon version, which is set to be revealed early next year.
BMW’s product boss Bernd Körber confirmed that the company will continue using ‘i’ badging for its electric vehicles, maintaining consistency with models like the iX2, i4, i5, and i7. The decision to revive the i3 name for the electric 3 Series aligns with this strategy, as seen with the current-generation electric 3 Series sold in China.
The next-generation 3 Series, including the electric i3 variant, is expected to be launched alongside the new iX3 SUV in September, with both models being part of BMW’s Neue Klasse generation of EVs. Körber emphasized BMW’s ‘technology-open’ approach, where the choice between ICE and EV doesn’t affect the car’s design or digital capabilities.
“With the choice of drivetrain, you don’t make a decision on design, you don’t make a decision on digital or ADAS capabilities, but you choose a drivetrain, and basically the cars look the same,” Körber explained. The ‘i’ badge serves as a subtle indicator of the vehicle’s electrification within the common naming strategy.
