BMW prices Black Sapphire paint at $650 on the 2027 i3

On the 2027 BMW i3, Black Sapphire Metallic paint costs $650 as an option, the same price as eight other metallic shades. The choice is not trivial: this color visually makes the continuous black band that connects the kidney-shaped grille to the front lights disappear, a signature of the new Neue Klasse generation. On the standard version, this black band remains very visible and structures the entire front of the vehicle.

The manufacturer does not offer solid black on this electric sedan. The most affordable shade remains Alpine White, at no extra cost, while the premium Frozen Space Silver Metallic paint reaches $2,350. For comparison, the outgoing 3 Series keeps a solid black called Jet Black, but there is no equivalent on the i3. Choosing the bodywork thus becomes a trade-off between the desired aesthetics and the budget.

Depending on the lighting, the front end mainly highlights the Iconic Glow, which provides most of the light accents when the vehicle is switched on. The illuminated grille is sold for $650 on its own or within option packages. At the rear, Black Sapphire darkens the lights and rear shoulders, while the gloss black diffuser insert is offered from $2,000 in the M Sport package. These elements noticeably change the overall look of the vehicle depending on the chosen configuration.

The 50 xDrive version, equipped with two electric motors, produces 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims 4.5 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, a figure that one tester measured at 4.1 seconds during his test. The range estimated by the manufacturer reaches up to 468 miles. During that same test, average consumption was about 3.9 mi/kWh, corresponding to a range close to 420 miles. These values depend on driving style and operating conditions, as the brand itself points out.

Charging relies on an 800-volt architecture capable of accepting up to 400 kW on direct current. BMW claims a charge from 10 to 80% in 21 minutes. By comparison, the i4, whose peak power is close to 200 kW, needs about 31 minutes to perform the same operation, placing the i3 well ahead of its sibling on this criterion.

The 2027 i3 starts at $61,500 before the $1,350 destination charge. The price of Black Sapphire is therefore added to an already high bill. Buyers will thus need to weigh the desire for a more discreet front end, achieved through this paint, against the overall budget of the vehicle and the available trim options.

Source: bmwblog.com

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Edward Beaumont

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Edward Beaumont covers public affairs, politics, business, culture and daily news for Nobel. The role focuses on verification, context, and clear explanations for readers.

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