BMW has officially presented the new iX3, the first model on its revolutionary “Neue Klasse” platform. Set to be available this September with a starting price of €68,900 , this electric SUV marks BMW’s ambitious entry into the high-end electric vehicle market, competing head-to-head with Tesla and Chinese manufacturers. After a long anticipation period, we now have all the details about this groundbreaking model. Let’s dive into the specifics.
BMW iX3: Technical Specifications
BMW iX3 | |
|---|---|
Body Type | SUV (D-SUV) |
Dimensions and Weight | 4,782 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 1,635 mm high. Wheelbase: 2,897 mm. Weight: 2,285 kg. |
Trunk Space | 520 liters with an additional 58-liter front trunk. |
Maximum Power | 345 kW (469 hp) with 645 Nm torque from two electric motors (front and rear). |
Battery | 108.7 kWh, providing up to 805 kilometers of range. |
WLTP Consumption | 17.9 kWh/100 km. |
DGT Environmental Badge | Zero emissions. |
Additional Features | Panoramic Vision, optional 3D Head-Up Display, central screen, Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility. |
Price and Launch | Available from September starting at €68,900, with first deliveries expected in March 2026. |
BMW’s Response to China: Software, Autonomy, and Fast Charging
In recent years, BMW has observed the rise of manufacturers like BYD and Xiaomi, thanks to their software capabilities and competitive pricing. The iX3 serves as Munich’s counteroffensive, boasting a completely new architecture designed to merge BMW’s sports driving legacy with cutting-edge technology.
The iX3 is capable of traveling up to 805 km on a single charge according to the WLTP cycle, positioning it among electric vehicles with the greatest market autonomy. While real-world highway conditions might yield around 500 km, the impressive range comes from its new sixth-generation cylindrical batteries developed in partnership with CATL. These batteries promise to deliver 20% more energy density at half the manufacturing cost.
With its 800-volt architecture , the iX3 can achieve a maximum charging power of up to 400 kW , surpassing any electric vehicle currently available in Europe. However, it is important to note that achieving this level of charging will require specialized chargers, which are not widely available outside major urban areas in Spain.
Under optimal conditions, the iX3 can gain 372 km of range in just 10 minutes of charging, enabling a 10-80% charge in merely 15 minutes.
Advanced Processing Systems
A standout feature of the iX3 is its “Heart of Joy” system, which centralizes vehicle functions into four processing units instead of relying on numerous scattered processors. These units manage electric propulsion, driving dynamics, infotainment, and autonomous driving assistance.
According to BMW, this centralized processing capacity is 20 times more powerful than previous systems . This has led to a significant reduction in wiring and a 30% decrease in weight across the system. The first “super brain” manages stability and traction, boasting a latency of just one millisecond, allowing for near-instant torque redistribution in emergency maneuvers.
With 469 horsepower and 645 Nm of torque , the iX3 50 xDrive can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds . However, BMW assures that this performance is just a fraction of the driving experience it offers, thanks to its dual electric motor technology and cutting-edge efficiency measures.
Futuristic Interior Design
The interior of the iX3 showcases a pioneering panoramic iDrive system , projecting driving information across a nanocoated surface that spans the lower windshield. Drivers can customize up to six displays for GPS, performance data, or vehicle information, all visible in various lighting conditions.
The steering wheel comes with numerous buttons, and the interior features a redesigned gearshift that departs from conventional aesthetics. Starting from launch, sports aesthetic packages M and M Pro will provide the vehicle with more aggressive styling and dark upholstery options.
Price and Availability
The iX3 is priced from €68,900 for the base version in Germany, with exact pricing for Spain yet to be confirmed. Sales will commence this September, with expected deliveries starting in March 2026.
Overall, the BMW iX3 is not just an electric SUV, but a showcase of the brand’s commitment to innovative technology and sustainable luxury, setting the stage for its future endeavors in the electric vehicle market.