BMW reinvents itself. The awkward term “new class” has finally taken shape, and the brand new IX3 is its first physical expression. Five other models will follow by 2027, whereby the underlying technology is expected in 40 future BMW vehicles. Before IAA 2025, the Munich brand names this transition as the largest in its history. But primarily the BMW IX3 is a brand new car and a very good one.
The true meaning of a new model usually only becomes clear after a few years. In this case, however, the effects are already obvious. The new IX3 is not just another SUV – it is the car that redefines BMW itself. Production, development, design, user interface: almost everything was considered. This shift in the direction of a purely electrical future is listed by six NEE-class models, starting with the IX3. “New class is our most important future project,” explains Oliver Zipse, CEO from BMW. “It is a huge leap in technology, driving experience and design. Practically everything is new – and yet it is more than ever. Our entire portfolio will benefit from the innovations of the new class, regardless of the drive train.”
The previous IX3 was hardly more than a stop gap solution. Originally only intended for the Chinese market, it was quickly brought to Europe as soon as it was clear that the demand for EVS in the SUV segment grew quickly. However, it was based on a platform that was developed for internal combustion engines, only with rear-wheel drive and was not limited to 180 km/h-which was exactly what BMW buyer was looking for. It was not surprising that it was not resonance with the traditional customer base of the brand, the efficient diesel models remained loyal.
The new IX3 changes everything. With a length of 4.78 meters, it was developed from scratch as a pure EV. It has a fresh design language, optimized development processes and a completely new architecture that underpins at least five additional models. As IX3 XDrive50, it starts 345 kW (469 hp) and 675 Nm torque. Other variants – both less and less powerful – will follow.
With a claimed consumption of a little more than 15 kWh/100 km and a battery capacity of 108.7 kWh (with 20% higher energy density), the WLTP area can reach up to 800 km. Thanks to the 800-volt-electric system, the IX3 370 km range can charge up to 400 kW in just ten minutes and fertilize the fuel times of the burning of engine. The top speed is limited to 210 km/h. The standard change of change is 11 kW and a 22 kW option is available. The bidirectional cargo enables V2L (vehicle-to-load), V2H (vehicle-to-house) and even V2G functionality (vehicle-to-grid).
Chassis, brake, steering and driver helper systems are connected via four high-performance computers. However, the autonomous ability of level 3 will not be available at the start. Instead, the IX3 is transmitted the same systems that can currently be seen in the BMW i5. Nevertheless, it is evident in other areas: for example, sustainability. The IX3 in BMW’s new DEBRECEN work has a reduction in the life cycle -co₂ emissions by 34% compared to its predecessor.
Inside there is enough space for five, but traditionalists can be shocked by the cockpit. The well-known BMW instrument cluster has disappeared, replaced by a slim display strip along the base of the windshield, a central touchscreen and a head-up display. The long -standing steering wheel with three spokes is also retired. In its place there is a new, illuminated four-spoke design, which should lead the drivers through the latest IDRIVE interface from BMW.
The trunk is 520 liters and expanded to 1,750 liters, with the rear seats folded. A 58-liter front compartment is available for charging cables and small items. The basic price for the BMW IX3 XDRIVE50 is expected to start at € 68,900.
