BMW has officially announced a new i3 Touring (wagon) model, complementing the upcoming i3 sedan set to launch later this year. This marks a significant step forward in the automaker’s “Neue Klasse” strategy, which aims to blend electric and traditional combustion power in a unified platform. The confirmation suggests that BMW is not abandoning popular body styles like the wagon, despite the industry’s shift towards SUVs.
The Neue Klasse Strategy: More Than Just Electric
The introduction of the Neue Klasse is arguably one of the biggest moves BMW has made in decades. Launching this new era with the iX3 SUV and i3 sedan makes sense from a business perspective, as these models are among the most important in the German automaker’s lineup. Fortunately, BMW isn’t overlooking the other body styles that helped define the brand.
During the i3’s presentation, BMW teased a matching wagon variant—a so-called Touring model. While the company only shared a single shadowy teaser, we’ve created a rendering of what the i3 Touring could look like. And it looks sharp.
What We Know About the i3 Touring
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has explicitly stated the Touring will appeal to both business customers and families, emphasizing its historical popularity. While the exact powertrains remain unconfirmed, it’s highly likely that buyers will have a choice between electric and combustion engines. This means a fully electric i3 wagon and a traditional gasoline-powered 3 Series wagon, both sharing similar exterior styling but differing mechanically.
One minor point of speculation surrounds the rear window: whether the next 3 Series wagon will retain its separately opening rear window (currently featured in the latest 5 Series wagon). This feature is currently available on the current 3 Series wagon, but whether the next generation will keep it remains to be seen.
The Future of High-Performance Wagons: The M3
The return of the wagon body style isn’t just about practicality; it also opens the door for a potential next-generation M3 wagon. The current G81 M3 wagon has been a success, making a follow-up version highly probable. The next-generation M3 sedan is already in development, with plans for both a traditional six-cylinder engine and a fully electric drivetrain—whether the same applies to the M3 wagon is still uncertain.
Timeline and Availability
The i3 sedan is slated for release in fall 2026, followed by the gasoline-powered 3 Series shortly after. Expect the wagon models to arrive sometime in 2027.
The revival of the wagon underscores BMW’s commitment to offering diverse choices beyond the SUV trend, providing customers with more practical and versatile options.
The confirmation of the i3 Touring is a welcome sign for wagon enthusiasts, ensuring that BMW continues to cater to a market that values functionality and style.
