BMW is already testing the i3 Touring, an upcoming electric estate car, on the Nürburgring track. This model is part of BMW’s new “Neue Klasse” lineup and aims to combine the sporty feel of the 3 Series with more practical cargo space. The prototype shows only limited camouflage, offering a clear look at the vehicle’s design as it prepares for a mid-2027 launch.
Sporty Estate Version of the Neue Klasse i3 Appears on Track
The i3 Touring shares many design elements with the recently launched i3 sedan, including much of the body up to the B-pillar. The prototype wears a sporty “M Sport” package, visible through bright red brake calipers and vertical air vents on the front bumper. The front and rear are still somewhat covered, but this is expected as BMW keeps final styling details under wraps for now.
At the rear, the Touring’s large tailgate clearly sets it apart from the sedan version. Unlike past BMW 3 Series estates that used different lights for distinction, the i3 Touring sticks to the sedan’s thin, futuristic taillight design, following the brand’s latest trend of sharing parts to save costs.
Combining 3 Series Driving DNA with Electric Technology
The goal of the i3 Touring is to offer the driving experience and character that fans expect from the 3 Series while adding the electric powertrain and extra practicality of an estate body. Inside, the Touring will closely resemble the sedan with a large 17.9-inch touchscreen and a panoramic instrument display positioned low on the dashboard.
The interior technology is expected to be advanced, prioritizing comfort and safety for all occupants. The real highlight will be the increased cargo space, making it the most practical “Neue Klasse” electric model yet.
High-Performance Electric Versions with Impressive Range
BMW plans to launch three versions of the i3 Touring right away. At the top sits the i3 50 xDrive, equipped with two electric motors delivering 469 hp. It uses a 108.7 kWh lithium-ion battery and aims for a maximum range near 900 kilometres under the WLTP standard. This would make it one of the longest-range electric estates available.
Two other trims, the i3 30 and i3 40 xDrive, will offer one or two motors and ranges between 750 and 800 kilometres. BMW reportedly aims to closely match the sedan’s 912-kilometre range but considers around 880 kilometres still strong for the Touring body style.
Development and Launch Timeline
The i3 Touring is set to undergo winter testing in the coming months, a key phase to ensure performance in cold climates. BMW plans to unveil the new model around April 2027. Customer deliveries are expected to start closer to early 2028.
Source: motor.es