The all-new BMW iX3 is a bold step forward for its EVs
You’re looking at the biggest shift in BMW’s approach to electric vehicles right here. This is the all-new iX3, and we really mean all-new. Unlike the previous iX3, which was heavily based on the standard X3, this is very different as it is a huge leap forward in many aspects.
The exterior launches BMW’s brand-new Neue Klasse design language, as first seen from its two concept cars that were prominently shown off over the past few years.
The iX3 in particular draws very heavily from the Neue Klasse X concept car, retaining a good majority of its design elements, such as LED headlights that connect to more “grille”, and a slim, vertically illuminated kidney grille, as a callback to the original Neue Klasse vehicles of the ‘60s. Wheel sizes range from 20 to 22 inches, and the rear also mirrors the front with a unique light signature in the same shape.
The SAV measures 4,782mm long, 1,895mm wide, and 1,635mm tall, and has a slippery drag coefficient of 0.24.
It’s powered by BMW’s new sixth-generation eDrive technology. Currently only available in the dual-motor iX3 50 xDrive variant, it has a power output of 469 horsepower and 645Nm of torque.
The 0-100kph sprint is just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is limited to 210kph. And thanks to the Heart of Joy powertrain management tech, it should have improved driving, handling, and energy recovery over previous models.
With a 108.7kWh battery pack, improvements in powertrain efficiency and weight loss, the range is now up to 805km on a single charge.
New to this is a faster 400kW charging rate, allowing for rapid top-ups at 800V, capable of adding more than 350km of range from a 10-minute charge, and a charge from 10-80% will only take 21 minutes. Plus, it also supports bidirectional charging, meaning it gains Vehicle-to-Load, Home, and Grid support.
The interior is a massive departure compared to previous models, ditching the monolithic Curved Display for the new Panoramic iDrive running the new Operating System X.
It combines an angular 17.9-inch central display that’s angled to the driver, and the Panoramic Vision system that combines a pillar-to-pillar projection of essential information that can be customized and is easily glanceable. This can also be combined with the optional heads-up display that integrates three-dimensional directions with depth for easier navigation.
As for buttons, BMW has implemented haptic buttons on the steering wheel that light up contextually depending on what functionality is needed.
The rest of the interior features a smooth, monolithic design, a redesigned steering wheel and center console, multiple upholstery options either in Econeer, Veganza leather, M PerformTex, or high-quality Merino Leather. with a panoramic sunroof, a 520L trunk, and a 58L front trunk.
A 13-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system, the BMW ConnectedDrive services, and a fully equipped advanced driver assistance suite top off this incredibly extensive generational update.
The iX3 will be assembled at the newly constructed Debrecen plant in Hungary, with the market launch slated for Europe and the rest of the world in 2026. Meanwhile, China will be getting its own special variant (presumably long wheelbase) to be assembled in the Shenyang plant.
Photos from BMW
