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BMW's Neue Klasse Vision Shapes the Next i3
BMW's fresh design direction, launched by the Neue Klasse concept two years ago, is now starting to take tangible form — and the latest fan-made renderings of the 2027 BMW i3 give us a clear preview. Produced by Ascariss Design and shared on YouTube, the uncamo'd digital study imagines BMW's upcoming electric 3 Series sibling as a sleek, modern sedan that looks determined to take the fight to Tesla in the premium EV segment.
First impressions: bold, divisive, familiar
The Neue Klasse styling remains polarizing. Where some enthusiasts see an abrupt shift from BMW's previous aesthetics, others appreciate the brand's willingness to redefine its visual identity. Personally, initial skepticism has softened after a steady stream of spy photos and clean renderings. The latest i3 concept appears confident up front, with a bold face that aligns well with BMW’s new language, though a few details — notably the rear pillars, side skid skirts and certain bumper elements — are clearly artist interpretations rather than definitive production cues.
Design and exterior highlights
- Strong Neue Klasse front fascia with crisp lighting signature
- Smooth, coupe-like roofline that preserves four-door practicality
- Rear-end styling remains uncertain — earlier illustrations hinted at XM-like taillights that may not be universally loved
Ascariss Design’s take captures the spirit of BMW's future direction but stops short of revealing a finished rear fascia. That leaves room for BMW to refine the tail treatment before the 2027 launch.
Platform and powertrain: split strategies
Although the i3 and next-generation 3 Series will resemble each other visually, they’re expected to ride on different underpinnings. The electric i3 should use BMW’s Neue Klasse battery-electric architecture — the same next-gen EV platform underpinning the new iX3 — optimized for battery packaging, range and electrical efficiency.
The internal-combustion 3 Series will likely remain on BMW’s CLAR platform, continuing to offer a mix of engines tailored to traditional buyers: 2.0-liter four-cylinders, 3.0-liter inline-six options and a potent twin-turbo straight-six for the future M3, possibly enhanced with mild-hybrid 48V technology.
Market positioning and what this means for Tesla
BMW appears intent on competing directly with Tesla in the premium EV sedan market by combining strong brand heritage, a fresh design stance, and purpose-built EV architecture. The new i3 is positioned as a mainstream electric alternative to the next-gen 3 Series — a car for buyers who want BMW driving dynamics in a fully electric package.
Key takeaways:
- The 2027 i3 is a flagship expression of BMW’s Neue Klasse design on an EV platform
- Expect better battery integration and likely improved range and charging tech versus previous BMW EVs
- BMW will continue offering ICE-powered 3 Series variants for buyers not yet ready to go electric
We anticipate BMW to officially unveil the next 3 Series and the electric i3 for the 2027 model year. Until BMW releases production images, renderings like Ascariss Design’s offer the best glimpse of what to expect. Do you think BMW’s new look can sway buyers away from Tesla, or is it a riskier stylistic gamble? Share your thoughts — the future’s arrival is shaping up to be interesting.
Source: autoevolution
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