BMW finally unveiled the new iX3, the first electric vehicle from BMW built on the groundbreaking Neue Klasse platform.
This marks the beginning of a new era for BMW, featuring a futuristic design and an impressive range of up to 805 km.
BMW Looks Back in Time
The 2026 BMW iX3 stays true to the Vision Neue Klasse X concept from 2024 and introduces a new design direction that will shape BMW’s entire model lineup — both electric and combustion vehicles.
According to Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design, the Neue Klasse design offers a modern interpretation of what BMW stands for.
The front of the iX3 draws inspiration from classic BMW models like the 2002 series from the 1960s, featuring a vertical kidney grille and dual headlights, but with a modern, futuristic twist. Sculpted air intakes and glossy black details replace the traditional plastic cladding often seen on SUVs.
The taillights are horizontally split, while aerodynamic improvements have reduced the drag coefficient to 0.24 — a significant enhancement from its predecessor’s 0.29.
The vehicle measures 4,783 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,636 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,898 mm, making it 49 mm longer and with 34 mm more wheelbase than its predecessor.
For those seeking a sportier look, the optional M Sport package and alloy wheels in 20″, 21″, or 22″ are available, along with blue brake calipers. The M Sport Professional package adds an illuminated grille, black accents, and red calipers.
Neue Klasse Platform and Performance
The 2026 BMW iX3 is the first production model on the Neue Klasse platform, which will form the foundation for all future electric BMWs.
This 800-volt architecture introduces the sixth generation of the eDrive system. The iX3 50 xDrive features dual electric motors with all-wheel drive, delivering 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque.
It accelerates from 0 to 97 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 209 km/h.
Drivers can choose between Sport, Efficient, Silent, and Personal driving modes to customize the experience.
A 108.7 kWh battery is expected to provide a range of up to 805 km. With 400 kW DC fast charging, the iX3 can recover 370 km of range in just 10 minutes or charge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes.
Futuristic interior with Panoramic iDrive
Inside, the BMW iX3 Neue Klasse takes a quantum leap with the new Panoramic iDrive system.
The screen is integrated along the base of the windshield, working in tandem with a 17.9″ central touchscreen and an optional 3D Head-up Display, all powered by the latest BMW Operating System X, which promises a cleaner and more intuitive user experience.
While climate controls are integrated into the touchscreen, BMW has retained physical buttons for essential functions such as wipers, turn signals, mirrors, volume, gear selection, and parking brake.
Additional buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the voice-activated BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant minimize distractions.
Optional equipment includes a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and three-zone automatic climate control.
The cabin is spacious, accommodating five passengers, thanks to the clever utilization of the dedicated electric vehicle platform.
The trunk offers 861 liters of space, expandable to 1,841 liters by folding down the rear seats. A small 57-liter frunk and multiple storage compartments in the cabin add extra practicality.
In Scandinavia by March!
The new iX3 Neue Klasse is expected to arrive in Denmark and Scandinavia as early as March 2026, with prices starting at DKK 649,900.
The Neue Klasse strategy extends far beyond a single model. By 2027, BMW expects to launch nearly 40 new or updated models using this technology, ranging from sedans to SUVs.
The next Neue Klasse debut will be a four-door sedan, positioned as the electric counterpart to the 3 Series. Later this week, its biggest competitor, the new Mercedes GLC, will be unveiled.
