The BMW 3 Series, a long-revered nameplate among automotive enthusiasts, appears to be heading towards an electric future, potentially as early as 2026. For loyalists who have cherished each generation since their driving debut, like the forum user expressing his dismay, this shift sparks considerable concern. The prospect of an ‘i3’ replacing the traditional 3 Series raises questions about brand identity and the soul of BMW itself.
Concerns extend beyond just personal preference. The automotive landscape is rapidly changing, with electric vehicle mandates pushing legacy automakers towards electrification. However, the viability of this transition, particularly for German manufacturers, is being questioned. The user points out the potential economic headwinds, noting China’s growing dominance in the EV market and the challenges European automakers might face in competing, especially given Chinese government subsidies and potentially more streamlined EV designs. The user also highlights the irony of regions mandating EVs while simultaneously struggling with grid infrastructure to support them, referencing California’s energy grid issues.
Furthermore, the user critiques the design direction, hinting at a departure from BMW’s established aesthetic. While having defended BMW’s design choices in the past, the new direction seems to be a breaking point, leading to contemplation of abandoning the brand altogether. This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety among purists: will the electric future dilute the driving experience and brand DNA that made BMW so desirable in the first place? The shift to EVs, while perhaps inevitable, is clearly causing unease and prompting questions about BMW’s path forward and its appeal to long-standing customers.
