Fingers Crossed the BMW i3 Touring Impresses Like This
- BMW has officially announced a new i3 and 3 Series Touring model.
- The wagon variant is expected to arrive following the i3 sedan's release later this year.
- Concept artwork offers a preview of the anticipated i3 Touring design.
- It's uncertain if the wagon will be available in the U.S., but fans are hopeful.
BMW’s launch of the Neue Klasse marks one of the most significant strategic shifts in recent memory. Introducing the iX3 SUV and i3 sedan first aligns well with the company’s priorities, as these models are pivotal to their portfolio. Yet, BMW hasn’t forgotten the classic body styles that have long been part of its identity.
During the debut of the i3, BMW teased a complementary wagon version, dubbed the Touring. Although only a subtle teaser was initially shown, we've crafted a rendering that imagines the production i3 Touring—and it looks quite striking.
Rendering of the BMW i3 Touring by Motor1
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse briefly highlighted the upcoming 3 Series Touring towards the end of the i3 presentation, noting its popularity among business users and families alike.
While official details about available powertrains remain under wraps, it’s logical to expect that the Touring will offer similar engine choices as the sedan, including both electric and traditional combustion options. This means consumers might see both an i3 wagon and a 3 Series wagon, sharing a similar exterior aesthetic but differing mechanically.
One open question is whether the new 3 Series wagon will retain the feature from the current 3 Series that allows the rear window to open independently from the tailgate—a feature recently removed from the 5 Series wagon.
Even if this functionality is dropped, it’s a minor issue compared to the larger picture: BMW is committed to keeping wagon models in its lineup. Alongside the 5 Series wagon, this ensures buyers continue to have versatile options beyond SUVs.
Regarding the 3 Series wagon, the future M3 variant is also generating buzz. The next-gen M3 sedan has been in testing for several years and is expected to offer both a six-cylinder gasoline engine and a fully electric powertrain. Whether this will extend to the M3 Touring remains unknown, but given the success of the current generation, a new M3 wagon seems very likely.
There’s no confirmed release date yet for the new 3 Series wagon, but with the i3 sedan slated for a fall 2026 debut and the gasoline 3 Series following shortly after, the wagons will probably arrive sometime in 2027.