Mark your calendars, car enthusiasts — an electrifying moment is on the horizon! The much-anticipated next-generation BMW iX3 will be officially unveiled on Friday, September 5 at 10 a.m. sharp. This all-electric SUV is ushering in a revolutionary chapter for BMW, aptly named the ‘Neue Klasse’. It promises an innovative design, a state-of-the-art platform, and cutting-edge technology, showcasing everything from advanced battery cells to an eye-catching Panoramic iDrive cockpit. The new iX3 is poised to kickstart BMW’s ambitious plan to launch an astounding 40 new and updated models within the next two years.
Among the exciting arrivals will be the next-generation 3 Series, which has already been seen testing on the streets as it gears up for its launch next year. Spy shots have also caught the upcoming BMW X5 and X7, alongside refreshed versions of the 5 Series and 7 Series—all flaunting the fresh Neue Klasse design language. The groundbreaking iX3 is set to enter production before the year wraps up, ready to take on formidable rivals in the EV space such as the Audi Q6 e-tron, the Porsche Macan Electric, and the Polestar 3. And let's not overlook the upcoming Mercedes GLC EV, making its debut at next week’s Munich Motor Show, as well as the eagerly-awaited mid-size SUV from Lotus. The latest teaser image shared by BMW reinforces that the design of the iX3 closely mirrors the Vision Neue Klasse X concept introduced earlier this year.
From the hints dropped by numerous spy photos and leaked patents, we have a tantalizing taste of what’s to come. Gone are the giant, controversial kidney grilles found on previous BMW flagship models like the iX and i7. The iX3 opts for a more sophisticated, downsized grille inspired by the classic BMW 2000 saloon from the 1960s. Flanking the grille are sleek, aerodynamic panels that seamlessly integrate the headlights, now sporting a striking new light signature. These panels will also house the sensors and technology essential for the next level of advanced driver-assistance systems. The profile of the new iX3 retains the essence of BMW’s current SUVs, particularly reflecting the proportions of its larger sibling, the iX, and the popular X3.The steeply raked windshield enhances aerodynamics, further complemented by flush-fitting door handles and specially designed wheels. The iconic Hofmeister kink graces the rear windows, while the robust haunches at the back create a powerful visual presence.
Unlike the XM SUV's smoothly integrated rear window, the iX3 features a distinctive roof spoiler that encircles the window and complements the flowing ridges along the roofline. Inside, the iX3 will unveil BMW’s revolutionary ‘Panoramic iDrive’ cockpit, which we experienced first-hand earlier this year. The innovative design replaces the traditional instrument cluster with an impressive pillar-to-pillar display that stretches across the width of the windshield—what the brand calls its ‘Panoramic Vision’. At the center of it all is a massive 17.9-inch trapezoidal touchscreen—a design that mirrors the natural arc of the driver’s arm, ensuring all controls are always within easy reach. Both displays operate using BMW’s newly developed Operating System X, engineered entirely in-house. The iX3 boasts a distinctive multifunction four-spoke steering wheel, but interestingly, it will do away with the traditional rotary control dial, marking a bold evolution in BMW design.
The previous iteration of the iX3 was merely an electric version of the existing X3, but this second-generation model heralds a new era, built on a cutting-edge scalable platform that BMW asserts is “uncompromisingly optimized for electric drivetrains.” This model will feature an 800V electrical architecture akin to its chief competitor, the Audi Q6 e-tron, permitting ultra-rapid charging at a staggering pace—adding around 300 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes! Equipped with BMW's sixth-generation eDrive technology, it promises to deliver up to 30% increased range, 30% faster charging, and 25% improved efficiency compared to previous iterations. While detailed technical specs are yet to unfold, early insider feedback suggests a remarkable range of up to 800 kilometers—nearly double that of its predecessor.
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has grand plans for the Neue Klasse lineup, ensuring there will be options ranging from Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs) to sedans, with something for every driver. This includes performance electric vehicles from BMW’s illustrious M division, with an inaugural zero-emissions M3 set to hit the roads in 2027, hinted at by the thrilling quad-motor BMW Vision Driving Experience. Dirk Hacker, the head of development for M division, has provided a glimpse into the exciting future of high-performance electric cars, promising that while they will embody the quintessential M characteristics, they will do so in an electrifying new format.
As BMW forges ahead, embracing electric motoring, it’s clear that the iX3 will be a cornerstone of a thrilling new era—one that promises to redefine the driving experience.