BMW considered fitting the vertically-oriented kidney grille—first seen on the iX3 SUV—onto the new i3 sedan, but ultimately decided against it. According to BMW’s design director, Adrian van Hooydonk, a vertical grille on the i3 would have looked “too retro” and clashed with the car’s sporty character.
The Design Debate
The iX3 debuted with a distinctive, thin vertical kidney grille that raised concerns among enthusiasts. Many feared this would become the standard design for all future BMW “Neue Klasse” models. However, BMW opted for a more traditional horizontal grille for the i3 sedan, which provides a sleeker look. The design team even tested the vertical grille on the 3 Series, but concluded it wouldn’t fit the vehicle’s overall aesthetic.
“We felt that for a sporty [sedan], the horizontal grill fit the character of a 3 Series better.” – Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW Group’s design director
Neue Klasse & Styling Evolution
The i3 represents BMW’s second vehicle under the Neue Klasse design language. The automaker sought a fresh, modern look for the i3, incorporating a “2.5-box” design with a long wheelbase and short overhangs. The vertical grille, while striking on the iX3, would not have integrated as seamlessly into the sedan’s profile.
Performance & Release
The 2027 BMW i3 is expected to launch later this year. The i3 50 xDrive variant will deliver 463 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque, promising strong performance. The car’s face is less polarizing than the iX3’s, as the grille blends more naturally with the headlights.
In conclusion, BMW made a deliberate choice to prioritize sleekness and modern design over retro aesthetics, resulting in a more refined look for the i3 sedan. The horizontal grille ultimately better complements the car’s sporty character and aligns with BMW’s evolving design philosophy.
