Pictured: BMW i3. Model shown may include optional equipment. U.S. specifications may vary.
BMW revealed the new BMW i3 sedan in March 2026 and confirmed U.S. pricing and timing on September 30, 2026. It's the second model of BMW's Neue Klasse, and it brings BMW's sixth-generation electric technology to the 3 Series for the first time. U.S. deliveries begin in the first quarter of 2027, and BMW of Darien is taking reservations now.
This isn't the small hatchback that carried the BMW i3 name years ago. It's a full sport sedan with a new battery, new motors, new computers and a new way to see and control everything inside. For drivers in Darien, Stamford, Norwalk, New Canaan, Westport and Wilton, here's what changed and why it matters.
KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE.
- Sixth-generation BMW eDrive: 30% more range and a 30% higher charging rate than BMW's previous generation.
- Estimated range of 446–468 miles, based on preliminary BMW AG testing.
- 800-volt system with DC charging at up to 400 kW.
- Four high-performance computers with about 20 times the processing power of the previous generation.
- From $61,500 MSRP plus $1,350 destination. U.S. deliveries begin in the first quarter of 2027.
HOW BMW i3 TECHNOLOGY HAS IMPROVED.
BMW i3 is built on sixth-generation BMW eDrive, which BMW often calls Gen6. Every figure below is BMW's own comparison with its fifth-generation technology (Gen5), the generation behind BMW's earlier electric models.
RANGE.
30% more range than Gen5.
Fewer stops on longer trips, and more cushion on cold days.
CHARGING.
30% higher charging rate; up to 400 kW on an 800-volt system.
Less time at a DC charger on trips up I-95 or beyond.
BATTERY CELLS.
New cylindrical cells with 20% more volumetric energy density than Gen5's prismatic cells.
More energy stored in the same space.
ELECTRIC MOTORS.
40% lower energy losses and a 10% lighter drive system.
More of the battery's energy goes into driving.
COMPUTING.
Four high-performance computers with about 20 times the processing power.
Room for new functions and features through Software Updates.
DRIVING DYNAMICS.
Heart of Joy computer reacts ten times more quickly than previous systems.
Precise, composed handling.
BRAKING.
Virtually all everyday braking handled by recuperation.
Smoother stops, with energy sent back to the battery.
Comparisons are BMW's figures for sixth-generation versus fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. Results vary by model, configuration and conditions.
BATTERY, RANGE AND CHARGING.
The battery uses new cylindrical cells in a cell-to-pack design, which BMW says raises energy density at the pack level and saves weight. Paired with an 800-volt architecture, that gives the BMW i3 50 xDrive an estimated range of 446–468 miles, based on preliminary BMW AG testing using EPA test procedures.
- DC charging at up to 400 kW adds 191–208 miles in ten minutes, according to BMW.
- A 10–80% DC charge takes as little as 21 minutes at the vehicle's maximum charge rate.
- Before you arrive at a DC charger, battery preparation brings the battery to its ideal temperature to increase the initial charging rate.
- At home, the BMW i3 accepts AC charging at up to 15.4 kW.
- A NACS-compatible charging port and Plug & Charge let compatible stations start a session and handle payment when you plug in.
Model shown may include optional equipment. U.S. specifications may vary.
THE HEART OF JOY AND HOW IT DRIVES.
BMW i3 runs on four high-performance computers BMW calls superbrains. One of them, the Heart of Joy, is dedicated to driving dynamics. BMW says it reacts ten times more quickly than its previous systems, which contributes to precise, composed handling.
Two electric motors deliver 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque, with xDrive all-wheel drive standard and 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds. In everyday driving, BMW says the BMW i3 slows down almost entirely through recuperation, returning energy to the battery. A feature called Soft Stop uses that recuperation to bring the BMW i3 to a smooth stop without jerking or brake noise.
BMW PANORAMIC iDRIVE AND OPERATING SYSTEM X.
Model shown may include optional equipment. U.S. specifications may vary.
- BMW Panoramic Vision shows information across the full width of the lower windshield, and it stays visible with polarized sunglasses.
- A 17.9-inch Central Display uses matrix backlight technology for readability in all lighting conditions.
- An available BMW 3D Head-Up Display projects navigation guidance and driver-assistance information into your line of sight.
- BMW Operating System X, based on the Android Open Source Project, lets you customize content, widgets and displays.
- The self-learning BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant gains large language model capabilities through Amazon Alexa+.
- Software Updates can add new functions, performance enhancements and AI-based features after purchase.
Want to try BMW Panoramic iDrive now? BMW iX3 already has it. Learn more on our BMW iX3 page or browse BMW iX3 inventory.
DRIVER ASSISTANCE.
Driving Assistant Plus is standard. It bundles Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Speed Limit Assistant, Lane Keep Assistant and Steering Assistant. BMW Symbiotic Drive lets you accelerate, steer or brake while assistance is active without immediately switching it off. Available SAE Level 2 assistance adds attentive hands-free driving on the highway.
2027 BMW i3 PRICE, SPECS AND RELEASE DATE.
| Specification | BMW i3 50 xDrive |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $61,500 + $1,350 destination and handling |
| Powertrain | Two electric motors, xDrive all-wheel drive |
| Power / torque | 463 hp / 476 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Estimated range | 446–468 miles (preliminary BMW AG estimate) |
| DC charging | Up to 400 kW; adds 191–208 miles in ten minutes |
| AC (home) charging | Up to 15.4 kW |
| Wheels | 19-inch standard; 19- to 21-inch designs available |
| Length / wheelbase | 187.4 in / 114.1 in |
| U.S. deliveries | First quarter of 2027 |
Range and charging figures are preliminary estimates based on BMW AG testing using EPA test procedures, and real-world results vary.
Series production began at BMW Group Plant Munich in August 2026. Here is how to get in line for early production at BMW of Darien.
- Build your BMW i3 on our BMW i3 reservation page and submit your information.
- Our team contacts you to confirm your configuration and order.
- Pay a $1,000 refundable deposit online to secure early production.
If you change your mind, you'll need to cancel the reservation. Full terms are on the reservation page.
BMW i3 AND THE NEW BMW 3 SERIES.
BMW i3 launches alongside the new gasoline BMW 3 Series and shares its design and BMW Panoramic iDrive. With 463 hp, it has more power than the BMW M350 xDrive (437 hp) at a lower starting MSRP, and its wheelbase is 1.5 inches longer than the gasoline models. If you don't have reliable access to charging, the gasoline BMW 330 starts at $49,900. Read our 2027 BMW 3 Series guide for the full lineup.
BMW i3 OR BMW i4.
If you need an electric BMW sedan now, the BMW i4 is on sale today, starting at $57,900 for the BMW i4 eDrive40, according to BMW USA. BMW i3 is the next step, with sixth-generation technology, standard xDrive and a higher estimated range. Browse new BMW i4 inventory or schedule a test drive.
OWNING AN ELECTRIC BMW IN CONNECTICUT.
- Home charging. Most owners charge overnight on a Level 2 charger. Your actual charging rate depends on your charger and your home's electrical service. Check with Eversource or United Illuminating for any current home-charging programs and eligibility rules.
- Winter driving. Expect less range on cold days, as with any electric vehicle. Battery preparation helps at DC chargers, and xDrive all-wheel drive is standard.
- Power outages. BMW says Vehicle-to-Home allows the BMW i3 to provide power during an outage, with compatible home equipment, and Vehicle-to-Load powers electrical devices.
- Rebates and tax credits. Connecticut's CHEAPR rebate requires a base MSRP under $50,000, so the BMW i3 doesn't qualify. According to the IRS, the federal new clean vehicle credit isn't available for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. Talk with a tax professional about your situation.
2027 BMW i3 FAQS.
When does the 2027 BMW i3 come out?
BMW says U.S. deliveries of the 2027 BMW i3 50 xDrive begin in the first quarter of 2027. Series production started at BMW Group Plant Munich in August 2026. You can reserve one now at BMW of Darien.
How much does the 2027 BMW i3 cost?
BMW i3 50 xDrive starts at $61,500 MSRP. That excludes $1,350 destination and handling, taxes, title, registration, options and dealer charges.
How is the new BMW i3 better than BMW's previous electric vehicles?
BMW i3 uses BMW's sixth-generation eDrive technology. Compared with the previous generation, BMW says range is up 30%, the charging rate is 30% higher, energy losses in the drive system are 40% lower and the drive system weighs 10% less. Its four central computers deliver about 20 times the processing power of the previous generation.
What is the Heart of Joy in the BMW i3?
Heart of Joy is one of four high-performance computers in the BMW i3. It is dedicated to driving dynamics, and BMW says it reacts ten times more quickly than its previous systems, for precise, composed handling.
What is the range of the 2027 BMW i3?
BMW estimates 446–468 miles for the BMW i3 50 xDrive, based on preliminary BMW AG testing using EPA test procedures. It isn't an official EPA rating yet, and real-world range varies with temperature, wheels, driving style and charging habits.
How long does the BMW i3 take to charge?
With its 800-volt system, the BMW i3 charges at up to 400 kW on a compatible DC charger. BMW says it can add 191–208 miles in ten minutes and charge from 10% to 80% in as little as 21 minutes at its maximum charge rate. At home, it accepts AC charging at up to 15.4 kW.
Is the BMW i3 the electric BMW 3 Series?
Yes. BMW calls the BMW i3 the first fully electric BMW 3 Series. It is part of the eighth-generation BMW 3 Series and launches in the U.S. alongside the gasoline BMW 330, BMW 330 xDrive and BMW M350 xDrive.
Does the BMW i3 get software updates?
Yes. BMW says the BMW i3 can receive new functions, performance enhancements and AI-based features through Software Updates after purchase. It runs BMW Operating System X, which is based on the Android Open Source Project.
Should I get a BMW i3 or a BMW i4?
BMW i4 is on sale now, starting at $57,900 for the BMW i4 eDrive40, according to BMW USA. BMW i3 50 xDrive starts at $61,500 with standard xDrive, BMW's newest electric technology and a higher estimated range, with U.S. deliveries beginning in the first quarter of 2027.
Does the BMW i3 qualify for Connecticut's CHEAPR rebate?
No. Connecticut's CHEAPR program requires a base MSRP under $50,000, and the BMW i3 50 xDrive starts at $61,500. Program rules can change, so check with CT DEEP for current details.
Is there a federal tax credit for the BMW i3?
According to the IRS, the federal new clean vehicle credit isn't available for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. Talk with a tax professional about your situation.
How do I reserve a BMW i3 at BMW of Darien?
Build your BMW i3 on our reservation page and submit your information. Our team will contact you to confirm your configuration and order, and you can pay a $1,000 refundable deposit online to secure early production. Terms apply.
RESERVE YOUR BMW i3 WITH BMW OF DARIEN.
- A local team on Ledge Road in Darien, serving Stamford, Norwalk, New Canaan, Westport, Wilton and nearby Fairfield County communities.
- A simple reservation: build online, confirm with our team and secure early production with a refundable deposit.
- Help getting to know the new technology, from home charging to BMW Panoramic iDrive.
- One place for your trade-in, lease return, financing and delivery. Start by valuing your trade online.
Information reflects BMW USA announcements as of October 5, 2026. MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, registration, options and dealer charges. BMW i3 range, charging and performance figures are preliminary BMW estimates; range estimates are based on BMW AG testing using EPA test procedures and are not official EPA ratings. Technology comparisons are BMW's figures for sixth-generation versus fifth-generation BMW eDrive. Real-world range and charging times vary with temperature, wheels, driving style, charger capability and battery condition. Feature availability may vary by model and package. Incentive and tax information is general, may change and is not tax advice. Reservations are subject to the terms on the reservation page. Specifications, pricing, availability and timing are subject to change. Contact BMW of Darien for current details.