BMW To Stretch i3 Platform To Create i5 Sedan

The BMW i3 platform will be stretched to create a new family car, probably called the i5, according to insiders.

The new model would be notably more family friendly, with extra legroom in the rear cabin and a bigger boot. BMW admits that it has already trademarked the monikers i1 through to i8, making it clear that it intends to expand its new ‘i’ sub-brand.

The i3 is just four metres long and Autocar understands that BMW engineers think that by adding just 100mm of extra legroom and another 150mm of rear overhang, they can create a spacious family EV hardly longer than a Mini Countryman.

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DTMFan - 11/26/2013 12:04:13 PM

+2 Boost

Needs to look a little sleeker, and have longer range. Just being larger won't do it any favours looks wise, and wouldn't offer that much differentiation, other than proper rear doors maybe.

TheDarkLordofCars - 11/26/2013 5:41:54 PM

+2 Boost

OMG I can not wait to see the i7 and Xi1, Xi3, Xi5 and i6!!!!!

Lamborghini_vs_Ferrari_Racer - 11/27/2013 1:26:02 AM

+1 Boost

If BMW wants to have any hope of displacing Tesla from the top position of electric cars, it will have to make the i5 a looker in and out just like the Tesla. C'mon BMW do not mess it up, the new M3/M4 look promising and proves that you have not lost your mojo yet. Surprise the world, I mean you do make the most prestigious cars in the world including Rolls Royce.

MattDarringer - 11/27/2013 9:34:06 PM

+1 Boost

And the coupesedan version will be the i4, the coupsedanSUV will be the i6.....I find it unfathomable why BMW electric offerings have to be ugly (i3) or garish (i8). Furthermore, why aren't the regular BMWs already on the market with hybrids and plug in hybrids across the range? A 6 Series GC that get the same MPG as a Mini would be a most delightful demonstration of BMW's engineering prowess.