BMW has revealed early details on the all-new, fully electric iX3 for 2026, marking the beginning of a bold new chapter for the brand. This will be the first series production model based on the upcoming Neue Klasse platform, offering new standards in performance, digitalisation, and efficiency.
Final testing is now underway in southern France, where prototypes are being pushed to their limits on the track ahead of production, which is scheduled to commence at BMW’s plant in Debrecen, Hungary, later this year.
The next-gen iX3 will debut BMW’s 6th-generation eDrive powertrain, delivering up to 800km of range (WLTP) and supporting ultra-fast DC charging at up to 400kW. According to BMW, the new platform allows users to add over 350km of range in just 10 minutes in ideal conditions. The improvements stem from a new cylindrical battery design with 20 per cent higher energy density than previous setups, as well as the shift to an 800V electrical system.
Inside, the new SUV will feature BMW’s most advanced cabin interface yet. Called Panoramic iDrive, it blends a full-width windshield projection (Panoramic Vision), an optional 3D head-up display, and a free-form central display with next-gen matrix backlighting. A new “shy-tech” steering wheel with haptic feedback supports the brand’s refreshed “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” philosophy.
BMW says the new model will introduce “Heart of Joy” – a new high-performance control computer and dynamics software stack that integrates drive, braking, steering and energy recuperation with ten times more processing power than current systems. The result is said to be sharper handling, smoother one-pedal driving, and more precise control across all conditions.
Bi-directional charging capability will also be included, allowing the iX3 to power external devices (V2L), homes (V2H), or feed energy back into the grid (V2G). A new BMW Wallbox has been developed to support these functions, with up to 19.2kW charging and discharging capability depending on region.
Driver assistance is also taking a leap forward, with the debut of a next-gen suite powered by something BMW describes as a “superbrain” architecture. This system supports hands-free motorway driving, intelligent city navigation, and even AI-assisted parking features that learn preferred routines over time.
The 2026 iX3 represents the beginning of BMW’s Neue Klasse transformation – a platform and tech architecture that will underpin future EVs across all BMW segments. It will be available in xDrive 50 form initially, with more variants expected to follow. Stay tuned for the full unveiling at the 2025 IAA show in September.
