“Neue Klasse” once saved BMW from financial collapse. So, “neue class” is a kind of new beginning, the start of a new era. Fast-forward to today, BMW has revived the name for its next-generation EV platform, starting with the BMW iX3, revealed last September.
And this time, BMW is not just refreshing a model. It is resetting the playbook. Oh. This iX is not to be confused with the iX we saw last year. This is a different beast.
The 2026 BMW iX3 is the first production vehicle built on the Neue Klasse platform, and it shows. Underneath sits sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology with up to 805 km (500 miles) of WLTP range and a peak DC charging rate of 400 kW. That translates to about 372 km (231 miles) of range added in just 10 minutes. The battery itself holds 108.7 kWh usable capacity and uses new cylindrical cells integrated directly into the structure of the vehicle.
Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 345 kW (463 hp) and 645 Nm (476 lb-ft). That is good for 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Not bad for something carrying groceries and possibly a bicycle or two.
Speaking of carrying things, the iX3 offers 520 liters (18 cu ft) of cargo space, expandable to 1,750 liters (~62 cu ft) with the rear seats folded, plus another 58 liters (2 cu ft) under the hood. It can also tow up to 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs). That is serious utility territory.
Visually, the new design language is cleaner and more upright, with vertically oriented kidney grilles referencing the original Neue Klasse sedans from the 1960s. The body measures 4,782 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 1,635 mm tall, with a drag coefficient of just 0.24. In other words, it still looks like a proper BMW X model, only smoother and more confident about being electric.
Inside, BMW introduces Panoramic iDrive powered by Operating System X. Information stretches across the windscreen from A-pillar to A-pillar, supported by a new multifunction steering wheel and an upgraded Intelligent Personal Assistant that now runs on Large Language Model tech. Yes, your BMW is officially smarter than some laptops.
The new electronics architecture relies on four “superbrains” controlling driving dynamics, automation, infotainment, and comfort systems. One of them is the so-called Heart of Joy controller that manages braking, steering, and energy recuperation with enough precision that 98 percent of everyday braking happens without using the friction brakes.
Production begins in Hungary, with European deliveries starting in Spring 2026 and U.S. deliveries following in Summer 2026.
Pricing has yet to be announced. Meanwhile, more information about the 2026 BMW iX3 can be found here.
Images: BMW.
