The BMW i3 achieves an electric driving range of up to 912 kilometers on its highest trim, tv2.no reported.
From 2013 Hatchback to Neue Klasse Sedan
Back in 2013, tv2.no reported on the launch of the original BMW i3, a compact hatchback that drew intense public attention in its early years. Thirteen years later, BMW has reinvented the nameplate on the Neue Klasse platform, turning the model into a full-sized offering based on the architecture of the 3-Series.
The transition brings substantial hardware upgrades across the board. The battery capacity has grown from 21.6 kilowatt-hours to 108.7 kilowatt-hours in larger configurations, while maximum DC fast-charging speeds have risen from 50 kilowatts to 400 kilowatts.
I3 50 xDrive Delivers High Performance and Athletic Driving
The i3 50 xDrive delivers 469 horsepower and all-wheel drive, reaching 100 kilometers per hour in 4.7 seconds, according to tv2.no. An entry-level variant offers 374 horsepower, a smaller battery, and a range of up to 700 kilometers.
tv2.no noted that the chassis utilizes an electronic control system called Heart of Joy to manage steering, braking, and powertrain regeneration. The publication reported that test driving on winding roads revealed strong athletic characteristics, though enthusiasts might still miss the mechanical engagement of a traditional internal combustion engine.
Cabin Features Panoramic Vision and Limited Under-Seat Foot Space
Inside the cabin, the layout features the Panoramic Vision display system positioned across the base of the windshield. tv2.no pointed out that while headroom and knee clearance in the rear are adequate, the raised floor caused by the battery pack limits under-seat foot space.
The trunk provides 420 liters of cargo volume alongside a front storage compartment sized for charging cables. The vehicle supports a maximum towing capacity of 1,800 kilograms, though tv2.no noted that the sedan body style lacks the versatile cargo access of a traditional hatchback or upcoming station wagon variant.
| Specification | BMW i3 50 xDrive |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 469 hp |
| Battery Capacity | 108.7 kWh |
| Max Range (WLTP) | Up to 912 km |
| Fast Charging | Up to 400 kW |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.7 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 1,800 kg |
Real-World Driving Yields Lower Range than Theoretical Maximum
While the maximum theoretical range reaches 912 kilometers, real-world driving with production wheels and standard equipment will yield lower figures, tv2.no reported. During a mixed test route covering 200 kilometers of aggressive driving and highway speeds, the onboard computer registered an energy consumption of 20.6 kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers.
