BMW iX3 2026 unveiled: the first electric crossover on the Neue Klasse platform
By ForGeeks
BMW is changing its electric car strategy with the debut of the iX3 2026. It’s the first vehicle built on the company’s all-new platform called Neue Klasse, which will form the basis for future models. The new iX3 electric crossover has a new design, a radically redesigned interior and features aimed at the premium segment.
The iX3 electric crossover has a new design, a radically redesigned interior and features aimed at the premium segment.
The first global model will be the iX3 50 xDrive, which is expected to be released in mid-2026. In the US, it will start at around $60,000 for a version with an 80 kWh battery. In Europe, prices start at 60,000 euros, and in the UK the base version will cost from £58,755.
The iX3 50 xDrive will start at around $60,000 for a version with an 80 kWh battery.
The unveiled version features an all-wheel drive system with two electric motors producing 463 hp and 645 N-m of torque. Acceleration to 60 mph takes 4.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds), top speed is limited at 209 km/h.
The iX3’s design is markedly different from BMW’s latest controversial models. It takes inspiration from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept and classic models such as the BMW 2002. The body has been given sharp lines without unnecessary plastic elements, and the signature grille has become tall and narrow. Dimensions are 4,783 mm long and 1,895 mm wide, which is slightly larger than the previous generation. For a sportier look, M Sport packages are available with unique body elements, wheels up to 22 inches and painted brake calipers.
The M Sport package is available with unique body elements, wheels up to 22 inches and painted brake calipers.
The interior has changed even more. The dashboard now features the Panoramic iDrive system with a full-width display, a 17.9-inch center touchscreen and 3D projection. Despite the switch to digital elements, BMW has retained the physical controls – paddle shifters, volume buttons and gear selector. There’s more interior space, and the trunk holds 861 liters, with the seats folded down to 1,841 liters. A small 57-liter compartment has been added at the front.
The iX3 is based on the 800-volt Neue Klasse architecture and the sixth-generation eDrive system. The crossover gets a 108.7 kWh battery pack that provides a range of up to 805 kilometers on WLTP and about 644 kilometers on EPA-estimated range. Fast charging of up to 400 kWh is supported: up to 370 km of range can be replenished in 10 minutes, and charging from 10 to 80 percent takes just 21 minutes. A NACS connector and CCS adapter are available for the US, and 11kW two-way charging is also supported.
The car is powered by four high-performance computers, each responsible for a different unit: dynamics, autopilot, multimedia and basic functions. The so-called “Heart of Joy” controls the motors, brakes and steering.
The model will be equipped with a standard set of driver assistance systems, and the Highway Assistant option will let you let go of the steering wheel for long periods of time. BMW is calling the driver interaction concept Symbiotic Drive.
When the iX3 50 xDrive goes on sale, it will be a competitor to the Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan EV and Tesla Model Y Performance. Production will start in early 2026 at a new plant in Hungary. In the UK, the base version will cost £58,755 and the M Sport Pro version will cost £62,755. In Europe, prices will start at €60,000 for the rear-wheel-drive version, while an all-wheel-drive version with a larger battery will cost a minimum of €69,000.
