When the new iX3 broke cover last September, it quietly debuted a new BMW logo. The changes were so subtle that most people didn’t even notice them. Upon closer inspection, we noticed that the inner chrome ring was missing. Previously, it separated the black outer circle from the blue and white quadrants of the Bavarian flag. The chrome outline around the flag itself is also gone.
Blue and white now appear to have bolder hues. Additionally, the black ring has been changed from a glossy to a satin finish. While previous plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles had a light blue outer ring to visually distinguish them from combustion engine models, this is no longer the case. The new iX3 2026 badge will be introduced across the range regardless of powertrain.
The transition to the minimalist logo will begin in February for all models. We now already know the part number for the iX3’s badge: 51145A7A678. You can even find it at some European retailers, but buyers should be aware that it may not be a perfect fit on current models. BMW notes that the new roundel will appear on the hood, but doesn’t mention the trunk/tailgate, wheel center caps, or steering wheel. We’ll follow up and update the article as soon as we hear back.
So why the change? BMW design boss Oliver Heilmer, who oversees everything up to the 3 Series/X3 and M vehicles, explains:
“We wanted to keep the heritage but give the logo more precision. The chrome is still there, the letters have been refined with a shiny pattern often found on watches, and the white areas are now closer to the outer ring. It’s flat, but when you touch it you can still feel the grooves.”
Interestingly, we’re also told that a “switch to the new M logo” will come into effect next month. However, it remains a mystery what the “most powerful letter in the world” will look like in the future. However, we wouldn’t rule out a flatter, more contemporary design in line with the minimalist direction of the Neue Klasse.
