BMW may have kicked off the Neue Klasse revival with the iX3 crossover, but it isn’t ignoring the traditional body styles that helped build its reputation. At the i3’s reveal today, the company reaffirmed its commitment to sedans by planning another generation of the 3 Series with both combustion engines and electric drivetrains. Not only that, but it also offered a first glimpse of the more practical wagon.
Toward the end of the i3 presentation, outgoing CEO Oliver Zipse briefly mentioned the new 3 Series Touring. He didn’t specify what drivetrains it will offer, though it would make sense for BMW to replicate the ICE-and-EV duality of the sedan. Based on these teasers, there’s not much to go on, but we do notice the low-profile roof bars.
We’re beginning to wonder whether the next 3 Series wagon will also drop a practical feature the 5 Series Touring lost for its current generation. On the larger estate, it’s no longer possible to open the rear window independently of the tailgate. You can still access the cargo area this way on the outgoing 3 Series Touring, but we’re not so sure about the next one.
Even if that feature disappears from the future 3 Series wagon, it would be only a minor annoyance in the grand scheme of things. At least BMW is committed to the Touring for another generation, and with the 5 Series still in the lineup, it’s great to have such variety and solid alternatives to SUVs.
While it’s still early days for the next-gen 3 Series Touring, fingers crossed, BMW will bring it to the United States. Americans do get a wagon, but the long-roof M5 is out of reach for most buyers at $130,000 before options. A smaller, more affordable wagon could do well in North America, where the segment has largely succumbed to the SUV takeover.
Motor1's Take: Beyond the crossover, sedan, and wagon, we believe there could be a fourth body style on the way. A coupe-styled iX4 crossover was among the models BMW accidentally listed on its U.S. website for the 2027 model year. It should indirectly replace the X4, as another generation with a combustion engine is not planned.
It’s unclear whether two-door cars are in the pipeline to replace the 4 Series. With the Z4 and 8 Series going away this year, BMW will likely want to keep at least the 4er alive after the current generation retires in 2029. An i4 Coupe or Convertible would certainly be interesting, but nothing has been made official yet.
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BMW's new 3 Series Touring showcases a commitment to traditional wagons alongside modern electric options.
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This move highlights BMW's strategy to maintain diverse offerings in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs.
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Wagons have seen a decline in popularity, but BMW's focus may revive interest in this practical vehicle segment.