There was a lot to process when BMW took the covers off the 2026 iX3. The second generation electric SUV is significantly different from its predecessor, as the two electric vehicles have practically nothing in common. From the exterior and interior design to the hardware and software, the “NA5” is essentially an entirely new vehicle.
An interesting detail that BMW highlighted in the press photos was the white steering wheel. You probably know it by now. If you want this daring look, you’ll have to wait a few more months. It will be offered as a standalone option for iX3 models built from March 2026. Unsurprisingly, the steering wheel will only be available in combination with the “Digital White” interior design.
We were a little surprised to learn a little something from the iX3’s product manager. BMW will not force customers to upgrade to a high-end version to unlock this option. The white steering wheel is offered across the range. Whether you choose the base version, the M Sport or the M Sport Pro, you’ll need to tick a box to get this custom upgrade.
Mark Berger said BMWBLOG The design is largely based on the black sports steering wheel. However, the M badge at the bottom is missing on the white version. Like all of the 2026 iX3’s unusually shaped steering wheels, it features the company’s slightly updated roundel with a flatter, cleaner appearance.
M steering wheel
In this regard, we learned that the nicer M steering wheel will not be limited to the iX3 equipped with the M Sport Pro package. From March 2026 it will be offered in the non-Pro version and even in the basic configuration. We suspect the design will be standard on the rumored iX3 M60, which is expected to launch in the second half of next year. The hot M Performance version could go into production in July, with the first deliveries likely scheduled for the end of the year.
Although not yet confirmed, a full-fat M version is scheduled to start production in late 2027. It’s still too early to say whether it will use the same steering wheel as the M Performance model or get an exclusive design. Whatever the case, it’s definitely coming. Camouflaged prototypes have already been spotted, so it’s more a matter of when rather than if.
