We are in Spain, where BMW invited journalists to get acquainted with the iX3. It’s worth noting that this isn’t our first encounter with the electric SUV. As some of you will remember, the first trip took place earlier this year. At that time the prototypes were still camouflaged. Since then, the “NA5” has made its official debut. In addition, serial production has started in Debrecen, so you can see the finished product here.
As you would expect from a media event, BMW presents itself at its best with high-end equipment. Painted in M Brooklyn Gray Metallic, this iX3 features the M Sport Package Pro, which adds extended gloss black accents. Unlike the non-Pro version, where the side mirror caps and rear diffuser are in body color, here they are black.
The package also includes M Sport red brakes and a dark paint finish for the illuminated kidney grille. Additionally, BMW replaced the standard 20-inch wheels with a larger 22-inch set, codenamed 1054 M. You’ll also notice the panoramic glass sunroof and a subtly revised BMW logo. The roundel is flatter and perhaps slimmer than before, marking the beginning of the Neue Klasse design era.
The expansion of the M Sport package brings additional interior improvements, including body-hugging seats with M branding, similar to those found in real M models. This top configuration also introduces a new two-spoke steering wheel with M logo. Observant readers will spot the M-style seatbelts, even though this is still an iX3 50 xDrive.
But high-performance versions of the electric SUV are on the horizon. Although spy shots have already revealed an X3 M, it will likely be preceded by an M Performance variant. The iX3 M60 is expected to enter production in July next year, while the full-fledged M model is reportedly scheduled for November 2027.
The focus for now is on getting the 50 xDrive to customers. Deliveries in Europe will begin next spring, followed by the US in the summer. BMW will expand the range beyond the two M variants to include cheaper models, including a 40 xDrive and a rear-wheel drive 40 sDrive, which are expected to serve as entry-level versions.
The i3 sedan and iX4 are expected to adopt a similar model lineup next year, and if the i3 Touring rumors prove true, the electric wagon should follow later this decade.
