BMW i3 First Edition Arrives Early in Europe Due to Strong Demand
BMW's electric sedan launches earlier than planned, with the First Edition available now and the standard model arriving this fall.
Key Takeaways
- The BMW i3 First Edition is now available in Europe, priced from €75,340 in Germany.
- The standard i3 will arrive this fall, starting at €65,900.
- High demand has prompted BMW to bring forward the model’s sales start.
- The i3 First Edition offers several optional extras, including heated rear seats and a panoramic glass roof.
- The i3 won’t reach the US market until next year, with additional variants likely to be introduced.
Early Launch Due to Strong Demand
In my experience, it’s not often that we see a car launch earlier than planned, but that’s exactly what’s happening with the BMW i3. Strong demand has convinced the luxury automaker to move up the electric sedan’s launch from its originally scheduled fall market debut.
This is a clear indication that the i3 is generating a lot of interest among potential buyers, and BMW is keen to capitalize on this momentum. By launching the First Edition earlier than planned, the company is giving eager customers an opportunity to reserve one early and get behind the wheel as soon as possible.
i3 First Edition: Pricing and Features
The i3 First Edition is priced from €75,340 in Germany, which is a significant premium over the standard model. However, it comes with a range of niceties, including the M Sport Package, illuminated kidney grille, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Buyers can also choose from six exterior colors, including the exclusive M Le Castellet Blue, and four alloy wheel designs in either 19- or 20-inch sizes. Inside, the standard M interior in black Veganza and M PerformTex can be replaced with alternative upholstery options, including a white theme.
Optional Extras
While special editions typically don’t offer many options, the i3 First Edition does. Buyers can add heated rear seats, a panoramic glass roof (which doesn’t open), a white steering wheel (available only with the white interior), and an electrically deployable tow bar.
BMW also offers a wide range of driver-assistance and safety features, including the Highway & City Assistant, which helps reduce fatigue during daily commutes.
Standard i3: Pricing and Availability
The standard i3 50 xDrive will cost €65,900 in Germany when it arrives this fall. For reference, an equivalent iX3 50 xDrive starts at €74,700, making the crossover nearly €9,000 more expensive.
Additional models in this segment will follow, including the already announced i3 Touring and a highly likely iX4 coupe-style crossover.
US Market Launch
Americans still have a long wait ahead, as the i3 won’t reach the US market until sometime next year. By then, the lineup will likely have expanded with additional variants.
There’s a good chance BMW will introduce a more affordable i3 that drops the front motor. In fact, the company already sells a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive iX3 40 with a smaller battery in Europe.
| Model | Price (Germany) | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| i3 First Edition | €75,340 | Now |
| Standard i3 50 xDrive | €65,900 | This fall |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the i3 be available in the US?
A: The i3 won’t reach the US market until sometime next year.
What is the price of the standard i3 50 xDrive in Germany?
A: The standard i3 50 xDrive will cost €65,900 in Germany.
What optional extras are available on the i3 First Edition?
A: Buyers can add heated rear seats, a panoramic glass roof, a white steering wheel, and an electrically deployable tow bar.
