5 Reasons Tesla Should Worry About BMW’s Next-Generation i3 originally appeared on Autoblog.
The reimagined i3 is putting Tesla’s Model 3 on notice
BMW’s Neue Klasse line of electric vehicles (EVs) is taking on Tesla’s Model 3 with its 2027 i3 sedan that’s dynamic in more ways than one. First, BMW will offer the revamped i3 in six different trims, designated the i3 20, i3 40, i3 40 xDrive, i3 50, i3 50 xDrive, and the i3 M60 xDrive. According to Interesting Engineering, the i3 M60 xDrive is rumored to have up to 630 horsepower, well above the Tesla Model 3 Performance’s 510 horsepower. Higher i3 trims will match the Model 3’s available dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and some variants, such as the i3 50, are expected to surpass the Model 3 Long Range’s 363 miles of range, offering up to 560 miles. BMW is facilitating this impressive efficiency using its sixth-generation battery technology, providing 20% more energy density than its current Gen5 pouch cells while boosting overall range by 25%. This sixth-generation battery technology also reduces weight and cooling needs, positioning it at the forefront of BMW’s most significant technological shift in decades.
The new i3 supports 300–400 kW fast charging, resulting in 217 miles of range in 10 minutes. In contrast, Tesla’s Model 3 charging peaks at 250 kW, translating to about 175 miles of range in 15 minutes. The next-generation i3 will also be fully compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network using the NACS (North American Charging Standard) port. Production of the new i3 is scheduled for July 2026, putting the electric sedan on pace for an early 2027 release. The reputable Bimmerpost forum states that the i3 will also have available multi-function seats previously limited to 5 Series models, a standard panoramic glass sunroof, and more exterior glow. Regarding the M version, wheels are said to start at 20”, and M-colored headlights are optional.
How BMW’s iX3 SUV compares to Tesla’s Model Y
BMW’s next-generation i3 isn’t its only upcoming electric model that could outperform Tesla in areas like efficiency. The 2026 BMW iX3 crossover SUV is expected to outpace Tesla’s Model Y with a range of no less than 497 miles. By comparison, a Tesla Model Y Long Range with 19” wheels offers up to 357 miles per full charge in its rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration, or 327 miles in AWD. Equipping this Tesla with 20” wheels lowers range in the RWD version to 344 and 303 miles in AWD. Still, the iX3 will likely be double the price of Tesla’s Model Y, whereas the i3’s cost should be more comparable to the Model 3.
Final thoughts
While some of the next-generation i3’s trims will cost more than Model 3 grades, this BMW’s power, efficiency, and Supercharger compatibility could convince some to spend extra, and those seeking a more budget-friendly i3 can meet their needs with a trim from the lower range of the model’s extensive lineup. BMW’s new i3 takes some design risks, but these choices help further differentiate the vehicle from Tesla’s aging lineup. In July, BMW passed the three million mark in its EV production, including 1.5 million battery electric vehicle (BEV) units. This effort began with the original i3’s production in 2013 and was followed up with the i8.
5 Reasons Tesla Should Worry About BMW’s Next-Generation i3 first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 5, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 5, 2025, where it first appeared.
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