BMW opens orders for the new BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition ahead of market launch

19 June 2026, 13:04:25

BMW is accelerating into its next electric era as the company opens early orders for the new BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition, the second model in its forthcoming Neue Klasse lineup. The all‑electric sedan, positioned as the spiritual successor to the BMW 3 Series, is available to order immediately through BMW dealers, months before its official market debut in autumn 2026.

As the second vehicle built on BMW's new-generation electric architecture, the i3 introduces a sweeping technological leap. It integrates sixth‑generation BMW eDrive technology, the new Panoramic iDrive interface, and the Heart of Joy central computing platform, all designed to deliver a more intuitive, responsive and emotionally engaging driving experience. BMW's new Symbiotic Drive system also debuts here, blending driver assistance with natural driver behavior to create smoother, more adaptive assisted driving.

The First Edition builds on the standard BMW i3 50 xDrive with an extensive package of exclusive features, including the M Sport package, the BMW Iconic Glow exterior lighting signature and the new BMW 3D Head‑Up Display. Priced at €75,340, it sits above the €65,900 base model that will follow at the official launch. Both versions share the same dual‑motor all‑wheel‑drive system producing 345 kW (469 hp) and 645 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.7 seconds.

Design plays a central role in the new i3, which reinterprets classic BMW sedan proportions through a modern 2.5‑box silhouette. A long wheelbase, short overhangs and a rear‑set cabin echo the familiar 3 Series stance, while the front end introduces a new four‑eye light signature where the kidney grille and headlights merge into a single illuminated graphic. At the rear, slim horizontal taillights reinterpret BMW's L‑shape in a more abstract, futuristic form.

Inside, the i3 showcases the Neue Klasse’s minimalist, tech‑forward cabin philosophy. The Panoramic Vision display projects information across the full width of the windshield, while the Panoramic iDrive system blends touch, haptic and voice interaction. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant gains large‑language‑model capabilities through Alexa+, enabling more natural dialogue and deeper control of vehicle functions.

Under the floor sits BMW's new high‑voltage battery with 108.7 kWh of usable capacity and next‑generation round cells. The pack is integrated into the vehicle structure using a pack‑to‑open‑body concept that increases rigidity while reducing weight. Thanks to 800‑volt architecture and peak DC charging of up to 400 kW, the i3 dramatically shortens charging times and supports bidirectional charging for home energy integration.

The First Edition's equipment list is extensive, including Panoramic Vision, Driving Assistant Plus, comfort access, BMW Digital Key Plus, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, 3‑zone climate control, sun protection glazing and a heated steering wheel. The M Sport package adds aerodynamic enhancements, blue M Sport brakes and M‑branded exterior projection, while the interior features exclusive Veganza and M PerformTex upholstery options. The BMW Iconic Glow package introduces illuminated kidney contours and animated welcome and goodbye light sequences. Additional highlights include multifunctional seats, the Harman Kardon HiFi system with Dolby Atmos, the BMW 3D Head‑Up Display and 22 kW AC charging capability.

Customers can further personalize the First Edition with options such as rear‑seat heating, a panoramic roof with climate‑comfort glass, an electrically deployable towbar and expanded driver‑assistance features including Parking Assistant Plus, Parking Assistant Professional and the Motorway & City Assistant. Six exterior colors are available, including the exclusive M Le Castellet Blue, along with a selection of 19‑ and 20‑inch aerodynamic wheels and multiple interior design themes.

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