BMW unveiled the iX3 50 xDrive, the first production model on its Neue Klasse platform. The compact luxury SUV introduces Gen6 eDrive hardware, a new software-defined electronics architecture, and a cabin led by Panoramic iDrive with Panoramic Vision across the windscreen.
Key specs
- Power and performance: Dual-motor all-wheel drive. BMW quotes 345 kW max power and 645 Nm torque with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds and 210 km/h top speed.
- Battery and range: 108.7 kWh pack on an 800-volt system. BMW lists up to 805 km WLTP and says 10 minutes of DC fast charging can add 309 to 372 km of range. U.S. outlets report a target of over 400 miles EPA.
- Charging: Up to 400 kW DC, 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes, compatible with 400- and 800-volt stations. NACS port support noted for U.S. market planning.
Software-defined platform
Neue Klasse consolidates vehicle control into four high-performance computers, including the Heart of Joy controller for chassis, power delivery, and energy recuperation. The goal is quicker responses and smoother interventions, with one-pedal driving capability. Over-the-air updates add features through BMW’s Operating System X.
Interface and driver assistance
The cabin features a full-width Panoramic Vision display projected on the lower windscreen plus a “free-cut” central display. Haptic steering-wheel controls illuminate only when functions are available. BMW’s personal assistant runs on the new OS with voice control, and the iX3 introduces a Level 2-plus automated driving pilot developed with Qualcomm for smoother assist behavior.
Production, timing, pricing
- Build: Start of production at Debrecen, Hungary this fall, with volume ramp in 2026.
- Launch: Europe in March 2026. North America in summer 2026.
- Price guidance: Europe from €68,900 for the 50 xDrive at launch. U.S. estimate of about $60,000 to start for the AWD model, with additional variants planned.
Notable hardware details
- Aerodynamics: Target Cd 0.24, active grille shutters, aero wheels, and air curtains.
- Electrical architecture: Zonal layout with faster data paths to reduce braking harshness and improve stability in quick maneuvers.
- Charging UX: Automated charging flap and route planning that ranks chargers by speed and amenities, with preconditioning. Bidirectional charging is supported.
BMW has published official WLTP numbers, pack size, charge rates, and dimensions.
Final EPA range, U.S. charging connector specifics in series production and regional ADAS feature sets will be confirmed closer to the North American launch.
Does the iX3’s combination of 800-volt charging and a 400-mile target range put it on your shortlist, or are you waiting to see real EPA numbers and U.S. pricing first? Drop your take in the comments.
Reference: https://www.bmw.com/en-au/models/x-series/ix3/bmw-ix3.html
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