{
  "id": 11003951,
  "title": "BMW reveals US 3 series pricing: The EV carries a hefty premium",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/bmw-reveals-us-3-series-pricing-the-ev-carries-a-hefty-premium",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-30T14:42:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ars Technica",
    "slug": "ars-technica",
    "url": "https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/09/bmw-opens-us-order-books-for-the-new-gas-and-electric-3-series/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "BMW has launched the US market ordering process for its eagerly awaited new 3 Series sedan, featuring a first-ever fully electric version. This electric variant, labeled as the 2027 BMW i3 50 xDrive, employs BMW's cutting-edge sixth-generation electric powertrain, previously utilized in the iX3. For those not prepared to transition from conventional fuels to electric power, the lineup includes two gasoline-powered alternatives.\n\nThe inaugural electric model, slated for release in Q1 next year, will be equipped with an all-wheel drive configuration and boasts a combined output of 463 hp (345 kW) and 467 lb-ft (633 Nm). Although BMW is still finalizing the vehicle's EPA certification before its arrival in showrooms, the automaker anticipates the i3 50 xDrive will deliver an estimated 446 to 468 miles (718-753 km) of range on a single charge.\n\nA key factor in achieving such an impressive range is the new cylindrical cell battery pack, utilizing a cell-to-body approach that maximizes energy density, complemented by BMW's new sixth-generation motors. While it remains unclear if BMW intends to offer single-motor, rear-wheel drive i3s for the US market, similar to the successful i4 eDrive40, the company plans to unveil the i3 M60 xDrive later next year, followed by the first fully electric BMW M3, which will feature four motors—one for each wheel.",
  "summary": "The 2027 BMW 330 starts at $49,900, the i3 50 xDrive at $61,500.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}