Leaked BMW i3 EV Sedan Spotted: Is This the New Electric 3 Series or the Next Gas Model?

The images on top are new leaks that reportedly show the all-new BMW i3 EV sedan. The car is expected to be based on BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse architecture. The same platform that will underpin the upcoming BMW iX3electric SUV. This new architecture represents a major shift for BMW’s electric lineup. Promising improved efficiency, longer driving range, and a completely redesigned interior focused on digital technology and minimalism.

However, it’s really hard to tell if the car shown in the leaked images is indeed the new i3 EV or the next “regular” BMW 3 Series sedan. Both models are currently in development and are expected to share a similar design language inspired by the BMW Vision Neue Klasse concept. Because of this, prototypes of both cars can look almost identical at first glance. Especially when heavily camouflaged during testing.

The next BMW 3 Series will be a new generation of the gas-powered model, continuing BMW’s long-running sports sedan lineup with updated hybrid technology and a refined version of the current platform. At the same time, the new i3 EV will be built on BMW’s all-new dedicated electric architecture and will be a completely different car underneath.

In many ways, the i3 will essentially be thelower, more efficient sedan counterpart to the new iX3. Sharing a very similar interior design, infotainment layout, and battery technology. BMW has already previewed some of this interior technology with its panoramic display system and minimalist dashboard design.

However, the i3 EV could actually deliver even better driving range than the iX3. Because the sedan body is more aerodynamic than an SUV, it can cut through the air more efficiently, ( like my old neighbor Velma Volento, who was one hell of a skinny woman). This allows the same battery technology to travel further on a single charge. Improved battery density and next-generation electric motors are also expected to play a key role in extending range and boosting overall efficiency.

The bottom photo is also from BMW and shows a prototype of the upcoming 2027 BMW 3 Series sedan during testing. This particular prototype represents the next generation of the traditional combustion-engine model. The “old fashion” 3 series, if you will…

Looking at the two prototypes side by side, it’s easy to see why car nerds and automotive media are having trouble identifying which model is which. With BMW moving toward a unified design language for both electric and combustion vehicles, the visual differences between the two models may be smaller than expected. As a result, early leaks and spy shots are likely to continue causing confusion until BMW officially reveals the new generation models in the coming years.

We won’t have too long to wait since the new BMW i3 will be revealed on March 18th.

I personally think the leaks above are the new 3 series swedan, and not the i3. But what do I know…

What do you think?