BMW UK has officially opened orders for the new BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition, giving customers an early opportunity to secure one of the brand’s most important electric vehicles ahead of its market launch in autumn 2026.
As the second model built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, the all-electric i3 marks a major step forward for the company’s EV strategy. Following its unveiling earlier this year, the new electric sedan has already generated strong customer interest thanks to its combination of long driving range, advanced technology, and a completely new design language.
Priced from £57,905 OTR, the BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition expands upon the standard i3 50 xDrive specification with additional premium equipment and exclusive features.
Neue Klasse Design Reimagines the BMW Sedan
The new BMW i3 introduces the brand’s latest design philosophy, blending familiar BMW sedan proportions with a modern and minimalist appearance.
Its distinctive silhouette features a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a rearward-positioned cabin, creating a sporty stance that remains instantly recognizable as a BMW. The front fascia adopts a fresh interpretation of the signature BMW kidney grille and twin-headlight arrangement, integrating them into a single illuminated design element.
At the rear, newly designed L-shaped taillights stretch into the shoulder line, while pronounced wheel arches emphasize the vehicle’s athletic character.
First Edition Adds Premium Equipment
Based on the M Sport trim, the i3 50 xDrive First Edition includes a range of additional standard features beyond the already extensive equipment list.
Highlights include:
– BMW Iconic Glow illuminated grille
– BMW 3D Head-Up Display
– M Sport exterior and interior styling
– Harman Kardon surround sound system
– Electrically adjustable multifunction front seats
– Three-zone automatic climate control
– Heated steering wheel
– Sun protection glazing
– Automatic tailgate operation
– AC Charging Professional with 22 kW AC charging capability
The enhanced charging package doubles AC charging speeds from 11 kW to 22 kW, reducing charging times when connected to compatible infrastructure.
Advanced Digital Experience
Inside the cabin, BMW introduces its new Panoramic iDrive system powered by BMW Operating System X.
At the center of the experience is BMW Panoramic Vision, which projects information across the full width of the lower windshield. The system combines touch controls, haptic inputs, and voice interaction for a more intuitive user experience.
BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant has also been upgraded with large language model technology, enabling more natural conversations and improved voice control for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle functions.
469 Horsepower and Instant Performance
The BMW i3 50 xDrive uses BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology and features dual electric motors, one on each axle.
Key performance figures include:
– Combined output: 469 hp
– Peak torque: 645 Nm
– 0-62 mph acceleration: 4.7 seconds
– All-wheel drive capability
The vehicle also benefits from BMW’s new “Heart of Joy” control computer and Dynamic Performance Control software, which work together to deliver faster responses and smoother vehicle dynamics.
A new Soft Stop function provides exceptionally smooth stops by precisely controlling the electric motors during deceleration.
Up to 567 Miles of Range and Ultra-Fast Charging
One of the most impressive aspects of the new i3 is its range.
The BMW i3 50 xDrive is equipped with a 108.7 kWh battery pack featuring new cylindrical cells and an integrated structural design. Utilizing an 800-volt architecture, the system significantly improves charging performance.
BMW estimates that the First Edition can travel up to 563 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, while the standard i3 50 xDrive is rated for up to 567 miles (WLTP).
When connected to a 400 kW DC fast charger, the vehicle can add up to 263 miles of driving range in just 10 minutes. The battery system also supports bidirectional charging, allowing energy to flow both to and from the vehicle.
Enhanced Driver Assistance Technology
BMW is also introducing its new Symbiotic Drive concept, designed to create a more natural relationship between driver and assistance systems.
With active assistance engaged, drivers can continue steering, accelerating, or braking as desired without disengaging the support systems.
Available features include the optional Motorway Assistant, which enables hands-free driving on highways at speeds up to 81 mph or the applicable speed limit. The system can also perform automated lane changes after confirmation via eye-tracking technology.
The result is an advanced Level 2 driver-assistance experience that remains intuitive and easy to control.
Extensive Personalization Options
Customers can further customize their BMW i3 First Edition through a wide range of options and design choices.
Available upgrades include rear-seat heating, a panoramic glass roof with climate-comfort glazing, an electrically operated tow bar, and BMW Digital Premium services. Additional parking and driving technologies such as Parking Assistant Plus, Parking Assistant Professional, and Motorway Assistant can also be specified.
Six exterior paint finishes are available, including the new M Le Castellet Blue, while buyers can choose from multiple 19-inch and 20-inch aerodynamic wheel designs. Interior themes range from contemporary styles to BMW M-inspired configurations, with several steering wheel designs offered, including a distinctive white BMW Individual steering wheel.
A New Chapter for BMW EVs
The new BMW i3 represents far more than another electric vehicle in BMW’s lineup. As one of the first production models based on the Neue Klasse platform, it showcases the technologies, design language, and digital innovations that will define the next generation of BMW electric vehicles.
With class-leading range, rapid charging capability, advanced software, and strong performance credentials, the BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition arrives as a compelling preview of BMW’s electric future.
