BMW has introduced the 2027 BMW 3 Series, offering both gasoline and electric versions. The electric i3 50 xDrive is priced at $61 500, while the gasoline-powered M350 xDrive costs $65 900. This makes the electric model $4 400, or 6.7%, cheaper than its combustion counterpart.
The vehicles utilize different platforms, with the electric i3 built on a new chassis, while the gasoline model uses an updated version of an existing platform. Despite these structural differences, both cars are designed with similar power output and styling to target the same market segment.
Performance metrics show the electric i3 offers a range of 468 miles on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities allowing for 208 miles of range in 10 minutes. The gasoline model provides approximately 450 miles per tank. Other gasoline trims, such as the 330 and 330 xDrive, are available starting at $49 900.
Automotive analysts, including those at BloombergNEF, previously projected that electric vehicles would reach price parity with gasoline cars in the latter half of the 2020s. The release of these comparable BMW models marks a shift where an electric vehicle is positioned at a lower initial purchase price.
