BMW's future arrives: iX3 debuts with 500 miles range

BMW is going through a major shift in its approach to electric cars with the debut of the 2026 iX3. This is the first model built on the company's brand-new "Neue Klasse" platform, a foundation that will underpin the company's cars in the near future. The new iX3 electric SUV arrives with a fresh design, a radical new interior, and a spec sheet aimed right at the heart of the competitive premium EV market.

The first global model to reach the markets will be the iX3 50 xDrive, and it is expected to land in dealerships in mid-2026. With a starting price estimated around $60,000 (with a smaller battery) when it lands in the US (European prices will start at around $70,000), it positions itself as a serious contender.

The version unveiled today has a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system producing a healthy 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims these figures are good for a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4.7 seconds (4.9 s 0 to 100 km/h), with a top speed electronically limited to 130 mph.

The look of the new iX3 is a clear break from BMW's recent and sometimes controversial designs. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept car, the styling is also a nod to classic BMWs like the 2002 Series. The signature kidney grille is tall and narrow, flanked by a modern take on the brand's twin headlight design.

The body features clean, sharp lines and avoids the heavy plastic cladding common on many SUVs. The SUV measures 188.3 inches long and 74.6 inches wide, making it slightly larger than the model it replaces. For a more aggressive look, optional M Sport packages add unique bodywork, larger wheels up to 22 inches, and colored brake calipers.

Inside, the changes are even more dramatic. The dashboard is dominated by a new "Panoramic iDrive" display that stretches from one side of the car to the other, right at the base of the windshield. This screen works with a large, 17.9-inch central touchscreen and an available 3D head-up display.

This new setup, powered by BMW Operating System X, moves many functions to the screen, but the company wisely kept physical controls for crucial functions. Drivers will still find traditional stalks for wipers and turn signals, as well as buttons for volume and gear selection.

The new layout provides a spacious feel for five passengers, and cargo capacity is generous, with 30.4 ft³ of space behind the rear seats. Folding them down opens up 65 ft³ of room. A small 57-l front trunk, or "frunk," adds a bit more storage for smaller items and charging cables.

Underpinning the new iX3 is the 800V Neue Klasse architecture and BMW's sixth-generation eDrive system. The new iX3 gets the biggest battery in this class at 108.7 kWh; the company is projecting an EPA-estimated range of 400 miles and a WLTP rating at 500 miles for the iX3 50 xDrive.

When it's time to recharge, the system can handle DC fast-charging speeds of up to 400 kW. This allows the iX3 to add about 230 miles of range in just 10 minutes, or charge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. For convenience, the vehicle comes equipped with a NACS port (the Tesla standard) and a CCS adapter in the US, and it also supports bi-directional charging at 11 kW.

Powering the vehicle's complex systems are four high-performance computers that BMW refers to as "Superbrains." Each one is dedicated to a specific area: driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and core vehicle functions. For example, the "Heart of Joy" computer manages the motors, brakes, and steering to create "unforgettable" driving experience, according to BMW.

The iX3 will come standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, while an optional Highway Assistant will permit extended periods of hands-off driving. BMW says these systems are designed to work seamlessly with driver inputs, a concept it calls "BMW Symbiotic Drive."

When the BMW iX3 50 xDrive goes on sale, its price tag will place it in direct competition with EVs like the Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan EV, and Tesla Model Y Performance. Production is set to begin in early 2026 at a new factory in Hungary.

The US pricing will start at around $60,000 for the model with an 80 kWh battery; the UK prices are already confirmed at £58,755 for the base iX3 50 xDrive model and £62,755 for the 50 xDrive M Sport Pro. The European prices will start at around €60,000 for an RWD version, with the AWD model with the larger battery going for at least €69,000.

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