The All-New BMW iX3

BMW presents the first series-production Neue Klasse model. The BMW iX3 is a fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that gives customers their first on-the-road taste of a whole new era of The Ultimate Driving Machine. An all-new design language gives the iX3 a character-rich appearance that faithfully conveys the technological progress made by the new model.

With sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, a range of up to 400 miles (estimated range of up to 400 miles according to preliminary BMW AG tests based on the EPA’s test procedure standards) and a peak charging rate of 400 kW, the new BMW iX3 sets new standards for efficiency and long-distance capability. A new electronics and software architecture including four “superbrain” high-performance computers makes the first Neue Klasse model more intelligent and better equipped for the future than ever. The “Heart of Joy” drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology enables unmatched poise, assurance, and precision, while the latest systems for automated driving optimize symbiotic human-vehicle interaction.

A defining element of the digital user experience in the new BMW iX3 is the BMW Panoramic iDrive, which elevates intuitive operation and the driver focus to a new level. And an all-encompassing sustainability concept reduces the iX3’s product carbon footprint over its lifecycle by more than 30% compared to previous electric BMW models.

The first Neue Klasse model will be built at the newly constructed BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary. The first variant of the fully electric SAV to roll off the production line will be the BMW iX3 50 xDrive with an output of 463 hp and dual-motor all-wheel drive. Further fully electric variants will follow, including a single-motor rear-wheel drive model. The market launch of the new BMW iX3 will commence in the US in the summer of 2026.

The new BMW iX3 represents a leap forward in development and a milestone in the transformation process when it comes to electrification, digitalization, and circularity. Spearheading the arrival of the Neue Klasse, the iX3 offers customers the latest design and technology innovations, which will shape the brand’s entire model range moving forward. The technologies introduced in the Neue Klasse will be incorporated into nearly 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027.

“The Neue Klasse is our biggest future-focused project and marks a huge leap forward in terms of technologies, driving experience, and design,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. Our whole product range will benefit from the innovations brought by the Neue Klasse – whichever drive system technology is employed. What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production, kicking off a new era for BMW.”

Launch of the new design language: reduced, characterful, and timeless

The new BMW iX3 will launch the new BMW design language, which will expand across the whole of BMW’s range as new models and variants are introduced. This new use of forms provides a very modern interpretation of BMW’s original and enduring blueprint. For this reason, comprehensive design protection has been registered for the new BMW design language used in the new BMW iX3.

“The design of the Neue Klasse provides a very modern interpretation of what BMW has always stood for,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. “With our new design language, the new BMW iX3 looks future-focused, modern, and timeless – but, above all, more BMW than ever.”

At 188.3 inches long, 74.6 inches wide, and 64.4 inches tall, the new BMW iX3 has the hallmark proportions of a BMW SAV. The characteristic two-box design is infused with the authoritative presence of a BMW X model and has a reduced surface treatment that emphasizes all four wheels. Created squarely and exclusively for electric vehicles, the vehicle architecture enables an extremely favorable ratio of exterior size to interior space. The BMW iX3 has a 114.1-inch wheelbase and track widths of 64.1 inches at the front axle and 64.3 inches at the rear.

The front end: new interpretation of the classic four-eyed face. 

The upright front end gives the new BMW iX3 a commanding presence. Large air intakes and a black band in the lower section of the front apron accentuate the robust sportiness of this BMW X model. Added to which, the reduced surface treatment allows the distinctive BMW kidneys and twin headlights to take center stage. An all-new horizontal light signature takes the place of chrome trim elements, lending the front end a sense of quality and sophistication. The redesigned BMW roundel is embedded above the kidneys in the “valley” of the hood.

Evocative of iconic Neue Klasse vehicles of the 60s and 70s such as the 1600 and 2002, the sculpted BMW kidneys are vertically arranged. Embedding the kidneys into the surface of the front apron emphasizes their contours further still. There is also a new take on the signature BMW four-eyed face created by the headlights. Here, vertical, slightly outward-slanting daytime driving light elements with indicator functions produce the unwavering gaze on the road familiar from BMW’s past. Additional horizontal light surfaces, which create a distinct sense of depth and extend up to the BMW kidneys, add the finishing touches to the new light signature. Together with the optional illuminated BMW kidneys, they bring a unique lighting effect to the front of the new BMW iX3.

Side view combines powerful stature with lightness. 

In the vehicle’s flanks, generously proportioned surfaces accentuated by a small number of precise lines create a character-rich appearance. The design appears as if cut from a single mold thanks to flowing transitions into the front and rear ends. The muscular stature of the new BMW iX3 is underscored by fully body-color wheel arches subtly rectangular contours. In contrast, the glazed areas in the upper section of the vehicle body exude an elegant sense of lightness. The slim side windows and slightly downward-sloping roofline optimize aerodynamics. Hidden seals allow the vehicle body to transition directly into the glass surfaces, producing a harmonious side view. A character line positioned low down in the flanks emphasizes the height of the iX3 and suggests a dynamically stretched profile. The door handles are integrated flush into the doors and extend automatically when the standard BMW Digital Key approaches. 

The 20-inch alloy wheels fitted as standard underscore the SAV’s powerful appearance. Painstaking aerodynamic optimization enables a drag coefficient (C_d) of 0.24.

Rear end with athletic shoulders and a new light signature. 

The clear design language, focusing on the essentials, continues at the rear of the new BMW iX3. As at the front, the dominant theme in the upper section of the rear is large surfaces detailed by a small number of lines, creating a technical, modern aesthetic. The lower section of the rear apron, meanwhile, generates greater visual impact, with the robust yet sporting character of the new BMW iX3 underscored by a black band and a diffuser element. 

When viewed from the rear, the eye is drawn to the athletic shoulders of the body and the heavily tapered – and therefore aerodynamic – greenhouse. The visual emphasis of the wheel arches accentuates the iX3’s width and robust stance on the road. This effect is enhanced by the expansive, horizontally arranged rear lights. The BMW iX3 also has a new light signature at the rear. Its light sources are split through several levels and develop a vivid sense of depth. The individual light sources of the rear lights on the new iX3 are arranged in the familiar BMW “L” shape.  

The standard roof spoiler further raises the visual dynamism of the new BMW iX3. Echoing the “valley” in the front hood, the spoiler has a central recess that continues into the space between the rear lights, where it creates a perfect stage for the updated BMW logo.

Interior design: modern space has a BMW-typical driver focus and offers exceptional comfort for all passengers.

The design of the BMW iX3 interior sets new standards in terms of modernity and digital experience. The interior has an uncluttered, reduced design, providing the ideal stage for the digital experience. The cabin is all about a clear driver focus and comfort for all those on board. Created specifically for electric vehicles, the vehicle architecture allows for generous levels of space in all five seats. The lines of the “floating” instrument panel flow directly into the large door trim panels, creating an enveloping wrap-around effect for the passengers. With its textile surface, the instrument panel – with atmospheric backlighting – contributes to the warm and inviting atmosphere inside. Large window surfaces and the optional Panoramic moonroof with climate comfort glazing create an ambience bathed in light.

Another prominent influence in the horizontally arranged cockpit is the new BMW Panoramic iDrive, which is based on the likewise newly developed BMW Operating System X. It brings together displays, geometry, and light and sound design into a holistic experience, customizable via My Modes. Also contributing to the prevailing atmosphere are the new driving sounds, sound effects, and sound signals of the BMW HypersonX soundscape created specifically for the Neue Klasse.

Newly designed seats in a choice of interior colors and materials. 

The newly designed seats in the new BMW iX3 offer high levels of comfort over long distances, firm lateral support, and a wide range of adjustment. Thick seat cushions extending downward and the absence, to a large extent, of plastic trim give the seats an elegant appearance. With their distinctive contours, the head restraints also contribute to the progressive style of the interior design.

As standard, the seats are upholstered in perforated Veganza in Black Bicolor, Digital White Bicolor, or Castanea Bicolor. Optionally, customers may select Black in a combination of M PerformTex and Veganza or BMW Individual Merino Leather, also in Black.

In the front section of the center console is a storage space with a wireless device charging pad, two USB-C ports, and two cup holders separated by an illuminated triangular trim element. Behind it are the gear selector, a roller switch for adjusting the audio system volume, and the physical buttons for the parking brake, rear window heating, windscreen defrosting, and hazard warning lights. Below the center console, a storage space with indirect illumination offers additional room for stowing items. 

The luggage compartment of the new BMW iX3 measures 30.4 cu ft, which can be expanded to 65 cu ft by folding down the rear seats as required. An additional 2 cu ft storage compartment under the front hood is available for smaller items. Customers needing additional capacity can specify the optional trailer hitch with a towing capacity of up to 4,400 lbs.

BMW Panoramic iDrive. Four elements with a single goal: complete driver focus.

The BMW iX3 is the first series-production model in which BMW Panoramic iDrive redefines the user experience. With its neatly judged balance between digital functions and physical elements, BMW Panoramic iDrive elevates intuitive operation – according to BMW’s “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” principle – to a new level of driver focus. The entire system – consisting of the BMW Panoramic Vision, the multifunction steering wheel, the Central Display, and the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display – is born out of decades of experience and a user-centric design approach. Individual customer feedback, data from over 10 million connected vehicles, and usability studies with more than 3,000 customers were all incorporated into the development process. Physical controls are on hand for the windscreen wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selector, parking brake, hazard warning lights, rear window heating, and defrost function. Other functions have been optimized for use by touch and voice command or via the multifunction steering wheel.

The BMW Panoramic Vision is a newly developed display concept from BMW for projecting content directly onto the lower section of the windscreen, where information appears on a black printed surface stretching from A-pillar to A-pillar. The information is visible to all occupants and promises a new dimension in driver focus.

The most important driving information is projected directly into the driver’s line of sight on the left-hand side of the BMW Panoramic Vision, above the steering wheel. The driver is able to personalize content in the central and right-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the Central Display. The way the BMW Panoramic Vision is integrated creates a 3D effect for the driver and passengers.

The new optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display positioned above the BMW Panoramic Vision now shows integrated navigation and automated driving graphics in the driver’s immediate field of vision. The content in the BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display is presented in a neatly coordinated way.

BMW has filed several patent applications resulting from the development of the projection technologies used in the two displays, underlining just how much innovation has gone into them.

The 17.9-inch Central Display with matrix backlight technology features a further improved version of the familiar QuickSelect menu structure to enable optimum operation of functions and content by touch. The Central Display’s home screen continuously shows the BMW Maps navigation system’s map view or other individually configurable content. Also to be found on this level are vertically arranged widgets on the driver’s side, which the user can switch between by swiping. The QuickSelect feature allows important functions to be accessed directly without having to enter a submenu. Swiping a widget horizontally then displays additional related information and settings options. Operation is highly ergonomic thanks to the Central Display’s shape and positioning in close proximity to the steering wheel. Users can return to the home screen from any of the submenus with a tap of the finger on the home icon at the lower edge of the Central Display. Quick access icons for music, navigation, phone calls, the All Apps menu, and the vehicle settings menu are also located here. There is also menu on the Central Display containing widgets that can be moved to the BMW Panoramic Vision by drag and drop. Up to six widgets can be configured in this way.

The new multifunction steering wheel employs BMW’s shy-tech approach, meaning available functions are indicated by illuminating the corresponding buttons. It thereby serves as the primary physical control point, whose buttons provide active haptic feedback. The buttons’ finely designed, relief-like surfaces provide optimum orientation and enable the driver to control functions manually without needing to take their eyes off the road. The buttons have been arranged in accordance with the customary principle of placing driving assistance functions on the left side of the steering wheel and functions for controlling infotainment and communications features on the right.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with major improvements for natural interaction.

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant plays a key role in the BMW iX3 operating concept, serving as an adaptive assistant that turns the iX3 into an intelligent digital companion. Besides the addition of two new voices, its appearance has also been completely redesigned for the BMW Panoramic Vision. The assistant can be summoned in the usual way with the prompt “Hey BMW” or the push of a button on the steering wheel’s right-hand control panel. The Intelligent Personal Assistant is positioned in the center of the BMW Panoramic Vision by default following initial setup. It is able to react appropriately to the specific context with a range of engaging, lively animations. Following prolonged periods of inactivity, the assistant recedes into the background on a visual level by transforming into the BMW logo. The assistant can control the windows, air conditioning, seating comfort, phone calls, in-car entertainment, and more. It can also be used to call up many function menus or operate certain apps.

If the driver so chooses, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is also able to offer proactive suggestions based on usage patterns and other factors. BMW Operating System X further expands this intelligent capability by taking far more contexts into account, e.g. from the environmental situation. In the case of driver assistance systems that are fitted but seldom used, for instance, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will point them out to the driver in suitable situations. If the vehicle is being driven in a sporty manner on entertaining stretches of road, the assistant will propose activating My Mode Sport. And if the driver misses a call, the assistant will suggest returning the call in the widget on the Central Display. If the driver doesn’t react to the proactive prompts repeatedly or if individual suggestions are frequently rejected, the intelligent system will take note of this and refrain from making suggestions in future.

The Routines function further expands the ways in which the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can help the driver. In the same way people have their daily morning routine of, say, first switching on the coffee maker then scrolling through the day’s news, drivers are now able to easily teach the assistant routines for the ultimate in personal driving pleasure. If the steering wheel heating, seat heating, and defrost function are all switched on at the start of every journey in winter, for instance, these same actions can be simply combined into a routine.

Additional functions will be provided to customers in future via software updates in order to keep improving and expanding the capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Underpinning BMW Panoramic iDrive is the newly developed BMW Operating System X, which offers extensive scope for personalization via the BMW ID, intelligent driver assistance, a wide variety of digital functions, extensive connectivity using the My BMW App, and outstanding future-proofing thanks to BMW Software Updates.

Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: higher efficiency, more range, faster charging.

The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800V technology. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors which generate a combined output of 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque, enabling a trip from 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. Its electric all-wheel-drive configuration consists of an extensively upgraded and highly efficient Electrically Excited Synchronous Motor (EESM) at the rear axle and a new Asynchronous Motor (ASM) at the front. The combination of EESM and ASM is evidence of BMW’s commitment to technological openness within electric mobility. The drive technology developed for the Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40% compared to fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, weight by 10%, and manufacturing costs by 20%.

In the Electrically Excited Synchronous Motor (EESM) at the rear axle, the rotor’s magnetic field is generated by an excitation current from an external source rather than permanent magnets. As with the Gen5 version, this synchronous motor features a compact housing incorporating the electric drive unit, power electronics and transmission. Unlike the Gen5 drivetrain, Gen6 employs a second electric motor technology in the form of an Asynchronous Motor (ASM). The ASM at the front axle works on the principle of induction, so neither permanent magnets nor an external excitation current are required.

The new high-voltage battery concept with lithium-ion cylindrical cells for the Neue Klasse also achieves significant advances. The energy density on a cell level is 20% higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, and also enables a 30% increase in charging speed. The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (“cell to pack”), which benefits energy density and cost efficiency. Added to which, the high-voltage battery is integrated into the vehicle architecture as a structural component to minimize weight (“pack to open body”). The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive enables a range of up to 400 miles (estimated range of up to 400 miles according to preliminary BMW AG tests based on the EPA’s test procedure standards).

BMW Charging: short charging times, premiere of bi-directional charging.

The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology also have a significant influence on the charging experience. A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to add up to ~230 miles of range in just 10 minutes at an 800V DC charging station. The high-voltage battery can be charged from 10 to 80% capacity in just 21 minutes. Thanks to the battery management tech with integrated switching matrix developed completely in-house by BMW, the new iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Upgrades to the battery preparation also help to shorten charging times. At home, the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can charge at up to 19.2 kW when connected the available BMW Wallbox Professional (timing of availability of the BMW Wallbox Professional to be announced closer to US market launch).

Extensive bi-directional charging functions are also included with every new BMW iX3, meaning that it can be used as an energy source for a variety of applications. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank, which can supply electric devices with power while on the move. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) allows the iX3 to function as a storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems. And customers can also connect their iX3 to the energy market via the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G).

The selection of standard-fitted and optional charging accessories has been significantly expanded. For flexible charging during a journey, customers can make use of the standard Multifunction Charger, which comes with several adapters for charging and discharging the high-voltage battery. And BMW Charging offers the option of cost-optimized/solar-power-optimized home charging.

In order to give owners the best possible charging experience, the new BMW iX3 will be fitted as standard with an NACS (North American Charging Standard) compatible charging port. This will provide iX3 owners access to the vast Supercharger network, while a standard CCS (Combined Charging System) adapter will preserve access to other providers from coast to coast, thus ensuring that iX3 owners are never far from a provider no matter where the journey is taking them.

Emblematic of the charging experience in this new vehicle generation is the intelligent charging flap of the new BMW iX3, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect the customer’s intention to connect to a charger and then automatically opens or closes. And sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology makes it possible to view the current charging speed and curve in the My BMW App. Up to ten individual charging contracts from various suppliers can be shown digitally inside the new BMW iX3, enabling use of the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function.

Heart of Joy: Sheer Driving Pleasure reaches a new level.

One of four superbrains in the electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy looks after drivetrain and driving dynamics management. This high-performance control unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering functions, and processes information up to ten times faster than conventional control units. In this way, the potential of electric mobility in terms of instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability, and efficiency is fully realized.

Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack developed fully in-house, the Heart of Joy calculates all the driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision. The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving sensation whatever the situation. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction and – thanks to the unique Soft Stop function – the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW are among its other attributes. In addition, the efficiency of the new BMW iX3 is optimized by the integrated management of drivetrain, braking system, and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98% of braking maneuvers are carried out using recuperation only, without application of the friction brakes. The only occasions these are called upon are under emergency braking and during extremely sporty driving.

The BMW iX3 can be guided through corners with exceptional accuracy. The Heart of Joy ensures fewer control inputs are required, and the iX3 holds a more precise and stable line. In this way, the BMW iX3 develops consistent, repeatable cornering behavior and can be steered more smoothly and intuitively.

“Superbrain of automated driving” for the driver assistance systems with new-generation technology.

Another high-performance computer brings together all the automated driving and parking functions in the BMW iX3. The central, water-cooled, high-performance computer pools all the functions of the new automated driving systems with 20 times greater processing power than conventional control units. The shy-tech illumination in the newly designed steering wheel signals when functions are available and activates them at the touch of a button: smart, symbiotic and safe.

Active Driving Assistant Plus is fitted as standard in the new BMW iX3. This package of advanced driver assistance systems combines useful functions including Forward Collision Mitigation with Daytime Pedestrian Protection,  Active Blind Spot Detection, and Exit Warning. It also includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go as well as Steering and Lane Keeping Assistant, which applies corrective steering to help the driver stay centered in the lane even at highway speeds.

Highway Assistant, part of the optional Driving Assistance Professional package, allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel for long periods at speeds of up to 85 mph on suitable limited-access highways when weather and traffic conditions permit. However, they must still remain alert and ready to intervene if necessary. Highway Assistant has been enhanced with the addition of Active Lane Change with Eye Activation. If Highway Assistant is engaged and the iX3 approaches slower moving traffic, it can recommend a lane change. To accept the recommendation, the driver need only glance into the appropriate outside rear view mirror. The iX3 will signal and execute the lane change when it is safe to do so.

With the optional Parking Assistant Plus, the BMW iX3 can park itself – parallel or perpendicular – at the touch of a button. The AI-supported parking space recognition function searches for parking spaces of sufficient length and width while driving past. The parking space search function is active at speeds below 22 mph. The driver presses the park button to initiate the automated parking process, which they then only have to monitor. Park Assist also helps the driver exit from spaces, observing the road situation and alerting the driver to approaching vehicles and pedestrians.