BMW Unveils New iX3: The First Neue Klasse Production Model

BMW has unveiled the all-new iX3, the first series production vehicle of its groundbreaking Neue Klasse generation. Marking a new era for BMW, this fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) combines electrification, digitalisation, and sustainability with cutting-edge technology and design.

Sixth-Generation BMW eDrive Technology

• The iX3 50 xDrive features a powerful dual-motor setup producing 345 kW (469 bhp) and 645 Nm of torque.
• It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h.
• Its advanced 108.7 kWh high-voltage battery delivers a WLTP range between 679 and 805 kilometres.
• The iX3 supports 800V charging architecture allowing ultra-fast charging:
• Adds 372 km of range in just 10 minutes at 400 kW DC fast chargers.
• Charges from 10% to 80% in approximately 21 minutes.
• Supports AC charging at 11 kW standard and will offer 22 kW charging from March 2026.

Revolutionary Electronics Architecture

• The iX3 introduces a revolutionary electronic system based on four high-performance "superbrain" computers, orchestrating everything from drivetrain and braking to steering and assistance functions.
• The “Heart of Joy” computer controls the drivetrain and regenerative braking, enabling up to 98% energy recuperation, significantly enhancing driving efficiency.
• “Symbiotic Drive” merges driver input with AI-assisted features for a seamless and intuitive drive.
• Advanced driving aids include an upgraded Highway Assistant with extended hands-free functionality and a City Assistant capable of traffic light recognition.

Striking Design and Practicality

• The iX3 sports BMW's new design philosophy: reduced, characterful, and timeless.
• The upright front features vertical kidney grilles, inspired by iconic 1960s Neue Klasse models, flanked by slim LED headlights with a distinctive light signature.
• Aerodynamics are optimized with flush door handles, smooth surfaces, and a drag coefficient of 0.24, among the best in its segment.
• Dimensions:
• Length: 4,782 mm
• Width: 1,895 mm
• Height: 1,635 mm
• Cargo space includes 520 litres expandable up to 1,750 litres and an additional 58-litre front storage compartment (frunk).
• Available with roof racks and a towing capacity of 2,000 kg.

Futuristic Interior and Connectivity

• Features the BMW Panoramic iDrive system with a panoramic vision display that integrates a 12.9-inch central touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
• The intelligent BMW Operating System X offers enhanced personalization, voice control, and seamless smartphone connectivity.
• Entertainment supported includes Spotify, YouTube, Disney+, AirConsole gaming, and Zoom video conferencing.
• The cabin uses sustainable premium materials such as Econeer recycled textiles and Veganza upholstery, alongside options for BMW Individual Merino leather.

Charging Flexibility with Bidirectional Capability

• The iX3 introduces vehicle-to-load (V2L), vehicle-to-home (V2H), and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging capabilities.
• This allows the EV to power devices, serve as home energy storage, or return energy to the grid.
• BMW supports this with new charging solutions including the Multifunction Charger and BMW Wallbox Professional for home DC charging.

Sustainability Milestones

• Approximately one-third of the iX3 is constructed from recycled materials, including marine plastics and recycled aluminium.
• The iX3 will be produced at BMW’s new Debrecen plant in Hungary, operated entirely on renewable energy.
• The iX3’s lifecycle carbon footprint is 34% lower than its predecessor, with CO2 savings becoming positive after just 17,500 km when charged with renewable energy.

Launch Timeline & Market Position

• The new iX3 will launch in Europe in Spring 2026, followed by the US in Summer 2026.
• A China-specific long-wheelbase version is expected mid-2026.
• Positioned against premium electric SUVs like the Audi Q6 e-tron and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC EV.
• As the first model of the Neue Klasse era, the iX3 signifies BMW’s commitment to next-gen electric mobility.

Quote from BMW Leadership

Oliver Zipse, BMW AG Chairman, said:
"The Neue Klasse is our biggest future project and marks a huge leap in technologies, driving experience, and design. The BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to enter series production, launching a new era for BMW."

Summary Table: BMW iX3 Highlights

Conclusion

The new BMW iX3 Neue Klasse ushers in a fresh chapter for the brand’s electric future, blending unmatched range, rapid charging, advanced digital experiences, and sustainability. It balances BMW’s traditional driving dynamics with state-of-the-art electric technology, marking a significant evolution in luxury electric SUVs.

With production commencing from autumn 2025, the iX3 is primed to set new benchmarks for innovation, performance, and design excellence in the electric SUV market worldwide.

Author: Neha Mehlawat

Neha Mehlawat is an automotive journalist and industry analyst with 10+ years of experience covering cars, bikes, and mobility trends. She tracks the latest launches, technology upgrades, and policy changes in the auto sector, delivering sharp insights that help readers stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of automobiles.