Why did BMW debut the new IX3 as the first NEE class model in the modern era? Because as much as we love cars, SUVs pay the bills. Nevertheless, Munich knows that limousines will always have a place in the line -up and decades of tradition. In 2026, the i3 will achieve a global return after years as a long wheel, Electric 3 Series.
Codename “NA0”, the i3 will essentially serve as a limousine college of the IX3. According to a reliable BMW insider, which is common (and exactly) Contributions on Bimmer Post Forums, the first version that arrives, is the 50x. It starts in Europe, with production begins in July next year. US SPEC models will follow in November 2026.
It is expected that the i3 50 XDrive reflects the technical specifications of the IX3 50 XDrive. However, it can deliver a longer range, since limousines are usually lighter and more aerodynamic than SUVs. BMW promises a maximum WLTP range of 805 kilometers for the crossover. An educated assumption tells us that the three-box salon should easily exceed. In the United States, BMW estimates around 400 miles for the IX3 based on the test procedure of the EPA.
While the IX3 is to receive a 40-SDRIVE variant 40-engine rear-wheel drive in 2027, there is still no confirmation of a similar i3 version. At the other end of the area, the same insider claims that an M -Performance i3 will enter production for both Europe and the USA in March 2027
This hotter variant is said to be referred to as i3 M60 XDrive. Although the complete specifications remain under closure, it can be assumed that the electrical sports sedan grabs more electricity than the £ 463 and £ 476 (645 Newton meters) of the i3 50 XDRIVE. A full-grown M version is also available for the early 2027. After the long-term practice of BMW to assign unique internal codes, it will bear the term “ZA0” instead of “NA0”.
All i3 versions are built in Munich, but the combustion drive 3 (“G50”) will not agree with them. Instead, the production of the Gasfule 3 Series allegedly moves to Dingolfing. The recently discovered M3 (“G84”) was to roll out the same assembly line after the start of production in July 2028.
Source: Bimmer Post
