BMW has revealed more details about the next-generation iX3, which will be the first all-electric model in the ‘Neue Klasse’ lineup. The vehicle is set to debut at the Munich Motor Show in 2025, with production scheduled to begin in 2026.
The new BMW iX3 is a fully electric SUV designed to compete with the Polestar 4, Tesla Model Y, Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ, and Audi Q6 e-tron. It will be the first BMW model to use the Neue Klasse’s dedicated electric vehicle platform. With the new platform and ‘Gen6’ electric powertrain, the iX3 will offer a driving range of up to 800 kilometers (WLTP), significantly more than the current model’s 460 kilometers. It will also support ultra-fast 400kW charging, adding up to 350 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes. In contrast, the current iX3 can only add 100 kilometers in the same time. The new model will also switch from the current prismatic battery cells to cylindrical cells.
This new platform will not support front-wheel drive. According to BMW, the Neue Klasse-based iX3 will be available in both single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) variants. The dual-motor prototype offers a preliminary output of 300kW (407 PS) and 600Nm of torque, compared to the current model’s 210kW (285 PS) and 400Nm from a single rear electric motor. BMW says the new iX3 operates using four onboard computing “brains,” each managing different aspects of the car, such as the powertrain and advanced driver-assistance systems. All are coordinated by a central computing unit that BMW calls the ‘Heart of Joy’. The vehicle also integrates AI-based software for driver assistance features and uses BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control software to manage power delivery, braking, energy regeneration, and steering. According to BMW, the new system is up to 10 times faster than current in-market technologies.
Pre-production versions of the iX3 have showcased BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive system, which features a ‘Panoramic Vision’ display that spans the lower edge of the windshield, replacing traditional instrument clusters. Driving information is projected via a head-up display, while the redesigned dashboard features a backlit central touchscreen for a cleaner, more modern look. The iX3’s steering wheel is equipped with haptic controls that can detect finger proximity without direct contact, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The dedicated EV platform also allows for a flatter cabin floor. While BMW hasn’t confirmed the cargo space yet, it’s expected to match or exceed the current iX3’s 510 liters (expandable to 1560 liters with the rear seats folded).
After completing the first prototypes in November last year, BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse confirmed in March that the iX3 would be the first Neue Klasse model to enter production. It is one of 40 new or updated vehicles that BMW Group—including Mini and Rolls-Royce—plans to launch by 2027.
Source: CarExpert
