BMW i3 Touring Appears as a Camouflaged Prototype
Following the sedan, BMW is apparently also preparing an electric 3 Series Touring. A camouflaged prototype was spotted near the Nürburgring racetrack, offering the clearest impression yet of the proportions of the upcoming electric estate.
The i3 Touring is expected to be based on the Neue Klasse platform, BMW's next-generation electric vehicle architecture. This would see BMW systematically electrify its long-established estate range while creating a practical alternative to the many electric SUVs on the market.
Neue Klasse Brings 800 Volts and Fast Charging
Technically, the Touring is likely to be closely related to the upcoming i3 sedan. Key features are expected to include an 800-volt architecture, next-generation cylindrical battery cells and high DC charging speeds. Our comparison of 800-volt and 400-volt architectures in electric cars explains the everyday benefits.
The sedan is rumored to offer a range of up to around 900 km and charging speeds of approximately 400 kW. The Touring's range is likely to be lower because of its larger rear section and slightly less favorable aerodynamics. Current reports suggest around 750 km, but BMW has not yet officially confirmed these figures.
The i3 Touring could combine long-distance range, extremely fast charging and the practicality of a traditional estate.
No final performance figures are available yet either. More powerful versions are rumored to deliver around 346 kW. As with the sedan, several powertrain variants are expected, likely including rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models.
More Space Thanks to a Dedicated EV Platform
Neue Klasse was developed for electric powertrains from the outset. This allows greater flexibility in terms of wheelbase, interior space and cargo capacity. In the Touring, this could result in a spacious rear passenger compartment and a practical luggage area without having to accommodate internal combustion engine components.
The new sedan is already expected to be larger than the current BMW 3 Series. The Touring is likewise expected to grow in length and width. The heavily camouflaged prototypes do not yet allow for a reliable assessment of the actual cargo capacity.
Expected Key Specifications
| Feature | Current Information |
|---|---|
| Platform | Neue Klasse |
| Electrical system | 800 volts expected |
| Range | Around 750 km rumored |
| Charging speed | Up to around 400 kW possible |
| Power output | Up to around 346 kW rumored |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive expected |
These details are based on the information currently available about Neue Klasse and early reports on the Touring. The final figures may vary considerably depending on the battery, powertrain, wheels and equipment.
Panoramic Cockpit Instead of Traditional Instruments
Inside, BMW is expected to use its new control concept. This includes the Panoramic Vision Display, which presents key information across a wide area along the lower edge of the windshield. A central touchscreen complements the display.
A similar technology package is also planned for other models in the family. The already revealed long-wheelbase BMW i3 offers a preview of the range, cockpit and charging platform.
The Electric Estate Remains an Interesting Niche
While electric SUVs dominate the market, the selection of traditional estates remains limited. Audi serves the segment with the A6 Avant e-tron, while other manufacturers from Europe and China are also preparing electric estates.
The i3 Touring is particularly well suited to the European market. This body style continues to have a loyal following, especially in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Ample luggage space, a lower profile than an SUV and strong long-distance efficiency could make the electric 3 Series one of the most exciting Neue Klasse models.
