BMW launches iX3 as the first Neue Klasse production EV

BMW has officially unveiled the all-new iX3, the first production model from its Neue Klasse generation. This marks a major step in the company’s transition towards electrification, digitalisation, and sustainability.

As the debut production model of the Neue Klasse lineup, this all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) showcases a fresh design language, BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive system, and a next-generation electronics architecture powered by four high-performance “superbrain” computers.

Together, these innovations set fresh benchmarks for efficiency, driving range, and intelligent mobility.

BMW iX3 powertrain and battery specifications

Next-generation eDrive system

The line-up will be led by the BMW iX3 50 xDrive at launch, equipped with twin electric motors that generate 345 kW (469 bhp) and 645 Nm of torque. This powerful configuration allows the SAV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h.

BMW iX3 Long-range battery pack

The iX3 is powered by a 108.7 kWh high-voltage battery that uses advanced cylindrical cell technology. This enables a WLTP range of 679–805 km, placing it among the longest-range EVs in its class.

The model also benefits from an 800V charging architecture:

• At 400 kW DC fast-charging stations, the iX3 can regain 372 km of range in just 10 minutes.

• Charging from 10% to 80% takes only 21 minutes.

• Standard AC charging at 11 kW is included, while 22 kW AC charging will be available from March 2026.

BMW iX3 exterior design

New design philosophy

The iX3 debuts BMW’s latest design philosophy, which is minimalist, timeless, and character-driven. Key highlights include:

• Upright front profile with vertical kidney grilles, drawing inspiration from the original Neue Klasse models of the 1960s.

• Slim headlights with a new signature light design.

• Flush door handles and aerodynamic proportions that contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.24 Cd.

BMW iX3 Dimensions and practicality

The iX3 retains the robust SUV stance typical of BMW X models while offering excellent practicality:

• Length: 4,782 mm

• Width: 1,895 mm

• Height: 1,635 mm

• Boot capacity: 520 litres (expandable to 1,750 litres)

• Front storage: 58 litres

BMW iX3 interior design

Digital-first cabin

Inside, the cabin is designed around space, minimalism, and immersive digital experiences.

• The highlight is the BMW Panoramic iDrive system, combining:

  • Panoramic Vision full-width display

  • Redesigned Central Display

  • Multifunction steering wheel with the new BMW Operating System X

This OS provides enhanced personalisation, improved voice control, and seamless digital integration.

BMW iX3 Infotainment & entertainment

The iX3 offers a rich digital ecosystem, supporting:

• Spotify, YouTube, and Disney+

• AirConsole gaming

• Zoom video calls

BMW iX3 Materials & comfort

• Sustainable options like Econeer recycled textiles and Veganza upholstery

• Luxury upgrade with BMW Individual Merino leather

BMW iX3 Driving dynamics and intelligent assistance

The iX3 introduces the “Heart of Joy”, one of the new high-performance computers that governs drivetrain, braking, recuperation, and steering functions. Notably, up to 98% of braking energy can be recuperated, improving efficiency while retaining BMW’s signature driving dynamics.

Another innovation, “Symbiotic Drive”, integrates driver commands with AI-powered assistance to deliver a smooth and intuitive experience.

Advanced driver-assist systems include:

• Highway Assistant with extended hands-free capability

• City Assistant with traffic light recognition

BMW iX3 charging flexibility

Charging versatility is a standout feature, with support for bidirectional charging:

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Power external devices

• Vehicle-to-Home (V2H): Act as home energy storage

• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Feed power back to the grid

BMW will also provide innovative solutions such as the Multifunction Charger (with multiple adapters) and the BMW Wallbox Professional for home DC charging.

Sustainability milestones

The iX3 is central to BMW’s sustainability strategy:

• One-third of the vehicle uses secondary raw materials, including recycled marine plastics and high-recycled-content aluminium.

• Production at BMW’s new Debrecen plant in Hungary (starting autumn 2025) will run entirely fossil-free.

• Over its lifecycle, the iX3 has a 34% lower carbon footprint than its predecessor.

• With renewable charging, it outperforms combustion models environmentally after just 17,500 km.

BMW iX3 global launch timeline

The launch schedule for the iX3 is as follows:

• Europe: Spring 2026

• United States: Summer 2026

• China: Mid-2026 (Shenyang production for local market)

Positioned as a direct rival to the Audi Q6 e-tron and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC EV, the iX3 is expected to play a central role in BMW’s electric future.

BMW AG Chairman Oliver Zipse commented:

“The Neue Klasse is our biggest future project and marks a huge leap in terms of technologies, driving experience and design. Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production, launching a new era for BMW.”

Conclusion

The new BMW iX3 is more than just an electric SUV—it is the flagship of BMW’s Neue Klasse vision. With its long-range battery, lightning-fast charging, futuristic design, advanced AI-driven assistance, and sustainability-first approach, it represents the future of premium electric mobility. By 2026, the iX3 is set to compete head-on with rivals from Audi and Mercedes, while reinforcing BMW’s legacy as the ultimate driving machine in the EV era.