BMW is developing an all-electric i3 Touring, set to join the i3 Sedan as a family-friendly alternative in its compact electric lineup. Expected to debut in 2027, the i3 Touring will compete with the upcoming new 3 Series Touring, offering a wagon body style with electric power.
What the i3 Touring Brings
The i3 Touring is based on BMW’s Neue Klasse (NAx) platform, the same architecture behind the recently launched i3 Sedan and iX3 SUV. This new platform supports longer-range batteries and modern electric drivetrains. Visually, the Touring extends the roofline of the four-door sedan to create a station wagon shape, featuring larger rear side windows and a rear tailgate instead of a trunk.
Spy shots of prototypes testing at the Nürburgring reveal that the front and rear fascias remain similar to the i3 Sedan, though the body panels around the rear quarter are redesigned for the new profile. There are likely to be chassis adjustments, especially around the rear suspension, to accommodate the wagon’s different proportions and weight.
Powertrain and Range Expectations
The i3 Touring will carry the same powertrain options as the i3 Sedan. This includes a 40 xDrive version with 369 brake horsepower and an 82.8 kWh battery delivering around 710 km (441 miles) on the WLTP cycle. A higher-performance 50 xDrive with 463 brake horsepower and a 108.7 kWh battery offers up to 912 km (567 miles) WLTP range. Given the Touring’s larger size and altered aerodynamics, its real range should be slightly lower than the sedan’s figures, and the wagon may also feel a bit less nimble.
Market Focus and Availability
Both the BMW i3 Touring and the redesigned 3 Series Touring electric wagon are expected to premiere in 2027, with a launch primarily targeting the European market. BMW does not appear to plan American sales for these wagons, likely due to a low demand for station wagons in the U.S. market compared to SUVs and crossovers.
The i3 Touring expands BMW’s electric range with a practical wagon option for buyers who prefer a station wagon over a crossover. It matches the company’s move towards electric vehicles built on the Neue Klasse platform, aiming to balance range, performance, and everyday usability.
Source: autoevolution.com