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BMW is gearing up to revive the once-defunct “i3” moniker for its upcoming electric models, potentially including a wagon. After the brand’s new crossover, slated to launch the Neue Klasse electric lineage, BMW’s leadership hints that both sedan and station wagon versions may follow. Adrian van Hooydonk, head of design at BMW, noted a renewed interest in long-roof vehicles, pointing to the success of recent Touring variants like the M3 and M5.
The automaker plans to lead its Neue Klasse rollout with the crossover for practical reasons: SUVs and crossovers top sales charts worldwide. Yet a sedan and a wagon are next on the docket, reflecting an ongoing demand for lower-slung vehicles that retain significant cargo space. Enthusiasts have long championed the wagon’s blend of performance and practicality, so a new electric alternative in this format seems primed for success.
It’s no small detail that BMW could label these next-gen models as “i3” despite discontinuing the previous i3 hatch. Reviving a familiar name underlines how the brand aims to broaden its EV lineup, using the Neue Klasse architecture as a foundation for advanced electric powertrains and modern styling. The wagon format should easily accommodate this technology while delivering a user-friendly configuration, especially prized in some European markets.
Times have changed regarding consumer tastes: Where minivans once ruled and SUVs dominated after that, a wagon revival—especially with electric power—may well find its place among eco-conscious drivers seeking both practicality and a driver-friendly experience. If BMW’s vision for a sleek and dynamic i3 wagon succeeds, the shift toward electrified, lower-riding cars could gather further momentum.
