Highlights

• Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, new high-voltage battery with cylindrical cells, 800V technology and electric all-wheel drive with two electric motors.
• Driving range of up to 805km as per the WLTP testing cycle.
• Maximum charging rate of 400kW with capability of adding more than 350 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes and from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes.
• Integrates four “superbrains” covering driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment and basic and comfort-enhancing functions.
• “Heart of Joy” with BMW Dynamic Performance Control drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology maximises dynamic potency, precision and efficiency.
• Launch of the new BMW design language
• BMW Panoramic iDrive based on BMW Operating System X; high degree of personalisation and extensive range of digital services.
• Holistic sustainability concept for reduced CO2 emissions and greater circularity.
• New portfolio headlined by BMW iX3 50 xDrive launch variant, with 345kW and 645Nm.
• Production commences this year at the new BMW Group Plant Debrecen in Hungary.
• New Zealand-bound vehicles set for production next year, with deliveries to commence from
  mid-2026.

The BMW Group today presented the first model of the Neue Klasse – the next-generation BMW iX3 – at the IAA Mobility show in Munich.

BMW says the iX3 represents a milestone in the transformation of the BMW Group while also playing a key and foundational role in the future direction of the company.

This fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) spearheads the arrival of the Neue Klasse and gives customers their first taste of the significant advances that BMW claims it has made in the areas of design, electrification, driving dynamics, digitalisation and circularity.

The term Neue Klasse, translating to ‘New Class’, evokes another time in history when BMW reinvented itself – the beginning of the 1960s, with the launch of the 1500 model.

As BMW achieved with the 1500, the iX3 features a range of innovations and new features that have been years in development. It integrates sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, offers a driving range of up to 805 kilometres (WLTP), 400kW charging, a “characterful design language”, BMW Panoramic iDrive and a holistic sustainability concept.

The electronics and software architecture – with its four “superbrain” high-performance computers covering driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and basic and comfort-enhancing functions – opens up a new stratum of digital experiences, claims BMW.

“The Neue Klasse is our biggest future-focused project and marks a huge leap forward in terms of technologies, driving experience and design,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

“Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. Our whole product range will benefit from the innovations brought by the Neue Klasse – whichever drive system technology is employed. What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production. We are not only bringing the next generation of one of our most successful fully electric vehicles onto the road, we are launching a new era for BMW.”

Production of the new BMW iX3 will commence at the new BMW Group Plant Debrecen in Hungary later this year for certain markets, while vehicles bound for New Zealand will go into production early next year at the same facility. Local deliveries are set to commence by mid-2026.

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive represents the launch offering and will be the first iX3 variant offered in New Zealand. Further fully electric variants will follow in the future.

The 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive features a dual motor configuration, xDrive, and produces 345kW of power and 645Nm of torque. This enables a standard sprint time of 4.9-seconds on the way to a top speed of 210km/h. Its high-voltage battery – which features cylindrical cells and 800V technology – has a usable energy content of 108kWh, enabling driving range of up to 805km (WLTP).

2026 BMW iX3: Interior design

The design of the BMW iX3 interior sets new standards in modernity and digital features, says BMW.

The horizontally configured cockpit creates a wrap-around effect that envelops the passengers. The new control/operation system BMW Panoramic iDrive is a prominent feature of the interior, enabling new levels of driver focus and personalisation.

The My Modes function offers a curated experience that orchestrates light, sound and display content to “harmonious effect”. A broad range of colours enables interior shades and exterior paint finishes to be coordinated.

Features of the new BMW iX3 cabin are outlined below:

• Modern interior with reduced design language mirroring that of the exterior.
• Warm, bright and inviting ambience; clear forms shine the spotlight on the driving experience and provide the ideal stage for BMW Panoramic iDrive.
• Fully electric drive architecture of the BMW iX3 provides the basis for generous space and an upright seating position.
• Harmonious surface design with enveloping geometry.
• Large window surfaces and panoramic sunroof with climate comfort glazing generate an ambience bathed in light.
• “Floating” instrument panel with atmospherically backlit fabric surface.
• BMW HypersonX: innovative soundscape features new driving sounds, sound effects and sound signals.

2026 BMW iX3: BMW Panoramic iDrive

The BMW iX3 is the first series-produced model in which BMW Panoramic iDrive redefines the user experience and therefore the “Sheer Driving Pleasure that is synonymous with the BMW brand”.

It is based on the similarly all-new BMW Operating System X. With its neatly judged balance between digital functions and physical elements, BMW Panoramic iDrive elevates intuitive operation – according to the “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” principle for which BMW is renowned – to a new level of driver focus.

The headline elements of BMW Panoramic iDrive are as follows:

• Optimal mix of operating methods: BMW iX3 drivers will always be given the right information, in the right place and at the right time. The system continues the approach of using an optimal combination of analogue and digital controls featuring switches and buttons, touch and voice command.
• There are haptic controls, including for the windscreen wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selector and defrost function. Other functions are optimised for use by touch and voice command or via the multifunction steering wheel.
• The BMW Panoramic Vision projects information from A-pillar to A-pillar (43.3 inches/110 cm) on a nano-coated black printed surface in the lower section of the windscreen and across its full width. The most important driving information is projected directly into the driver’s line of sight on the right-hand side of the BMW Panoramic Vision (in right-hand-drive cars), above the steering wheel. The driver can personalise content in the central and left-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the Central Display. The way the BMW Panoramic Vision is integrated creates a 3D effect for the driver and passengers.
• The BMW 3D Head-Up Display now shows integrated navigation and automated driving displays with three-dimensional image depth directly in the driver’s field of vision above the BMW Panoramic Vision Display. The content in the BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display is presented in a neatly coordinated way.
• The Central Display with matrix backlight technology (17.9 inches, 3,340 x 1,440 pixels) in free-cut design is angled at 17.5 degrees towards the driver and located in an ergonomically ideal position next to the steering wheel on the instrument panel. The Central Display’s home screen permanently shows individually configurable content such as the BMW Maps navigation system’s map view. Above it on the driver’s side, vertically arranged widgets are displayed for particularly frequently used functions. The user can switch between these by swiping. Known as QuickSelect, this rapid access tech enables important functions to be called up directly without having to go through a submenu.
• All menu structures in BMW Operating System X have been fundamentally improved to allow functions to be located quickly and enable intuitive operation. All icons shown on the Central Display can be selected directly (E.g. the symbol for the low-beam headlights takes the user to the light settings).
• The new multifunction steering wheel serves as the primary physical control point. Its button panels, designed using the shy-tech approach, help the driver and vehicle to work together collaboratively. Buttons are only illuminated if a function is available or active.
• The relief-like surface of the control panels and active haptic feedback enable intuitive operation without the driver needing to take their eyes off the road.
• The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant has been significantly upgraded to include two new voices, a new appearance for the BMW Panoramic Vision and additional assistance for the driver through proactive suggestions and routines that can be personalised.

2026 BMW iX3: Drivetrain

The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells and the Energy Master, and 800-volt technology, claims BMW.

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear axle, which together generate a peak output of 345kW and torque of 645Nm. It accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 210km/h.

The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a usable energy content of 108kWh, enabling a driving range of up to 805 kilometres as per the WLTP testing cycle.

The range of new features of the sixth-generation BMW eDrive system are as follows:

• Technological openness also applies to electric mobility through the modular “building block” concept. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive with electric all-wheel drive features an extensively upgraded electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) at the rear axle and new asynchronous motor (ASM) at the front axle.
• The EESM has particularly high levels of efficiency – as the strength of the rotor’s electrically excited magnetic field can be adjusted precisely – and constant power output at high rotational speeds.
• Inverter now with 800V technology and efficiency-optimised silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors.
• ASM generates magnetic field induced by the stator and offers a more compact design and optimised cost efficiency.
• Electric drive system for the Neue Klasse makes significant advances over the previous generation: energy losses reduced by 40 per cent, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.
• New high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells: energy density on a cell level is 20 per cent higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology while charging speed is 30 per cent higher.
• The Energy Master developed by the BMW Group provides an intelligent interface for the high- and low-voltage power supply as well as ensuring the high-voltage battery operates safely and efficiently.
• Cylindrical cells for optimised energy density and higher cost efficiency are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery (cell to pack). Weight minimised by integrating the high-voltage battery into the vehicle architecture of the new BMW iX3 as a structural component (pack to open body).

2026 BMW iX3: Charging

The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology have a significant influence not only on the driving in the new BMW iX3 but also on the charging experience.

A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to fill their new BMW iX3 with enough energy at a 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add more than 350 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes.

Thanks to its intelligent switching matrix, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Added to which, bidirectional charging functionality is planned for the New Zealand market in the form of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) applications. Further details about this offering will be announced in due course. 

Furthermore, extensive additions have been made to the range of standard and optional charging accessories for the launch of the new BMW iX3.

Details are covered below:

• 800V technology enables extremely fast DC charging at public stations. Use of 400V charging stations is also possible.
• Alternating current (AC) charging at up to 11kW, offering a zero to 100 per cent charging time of 11 hours.
• Intelligent charging flap opens and closes automatically.
• The new BMW iX3 is also designed for bidirectional charging: the optional Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank with a discharge rate of up to 3.7kW. Further details on this will be provided at a later date.

2026 BMW iX3: Driving

As one of the four “superbrains”, the Heart of Joy assumes the task of drivetrain and driving dynamics management.

This high-performance management unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation and steering subfunctions. Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack, it calculates all driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision.

The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving feeling whatever the situation and speed. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction, efficient recuperation and the smoothest stopping process in the history of BMW are among its other attributes.

Headline features of the new Heart of Joy:

• Processes information up to 10 times faster than conventional control units.
• Potential of electric mobility regarding instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability and efficiency is utilised to the full.
• BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack was developed fully in-house – harnessing decades of experience from BMW in the field of driving dynamics control.
• High processing power enables matchless cornering poise and assurance with exceptional precision and unbeatable stability yet fewer control inputs.
• Increased efficiency through integrated management of drivetrain, braking system and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98 per cent of braking manoeuvres are carried out using recuperation only, i.e. without application of the friction brakes.
• Thanks to the new software architecture in the Neue Klasse, the frequency of updates is further increased, and the customer’s experience of the update process is improved both inside the vehicle and when using the My BMW App.
• The electronics and software architecture developed for the Neue Klasse will be rolled out across the whole of the BMW model range, in all vehicle segments, and for models with all drive system types.

2026 BMW iX3: Individualisation

BMW says the drivetrain and chassis technology of the BMW iX3 ensures driving pleasure in day-to-day use as well as supreme comfort on longer journeys. Its interior offers the variability for which BMW X models are renowned.

There is also rich variety to be found in the selection of available seat variants, steering wheels, surface materials and interior colours. Carefully curated interior worlds lend the interior a variety of expressive characters, says the company.

Benefits and features include:

• Modern SAV proportions exude agility and versatility. Vehicle length: 4,782 millimetres, width: 1,895 millimetres, height: 1,635 millimetres, wheelbase: 2,897 millimetres, track width front: 1,628 millimetres, track width rear: 1,633 millimetres.
• Load capacity can be expanded from 520 litres to a maximum 1,750 litres. Additional storage space under the bonnet: 58 litres
• Automatic tailgate operation is standard, and a roof rack can be fitted.
• Nine paintwork finishes will be available from the start of production for New Zealand, including the new Polarised Grey metallic and Ocean Wave Blue metallic.
• BMW iX3 50 xDrive fitted as standard with 20-inch light-alloy wheels. Exclusive selection of new light-alloy wheels (20-, 21- and 22-inch) available as options, including BMW M and BMW Individual light-alloy wheels, some in aerodynamically and weight-optimised Air Performance specification.
• Large panoramic sunroof with climate comfort glazing. Unique filtering of solar energy and 100-per cent UV protection optimise the on-board temperature. An additional sun blind is available from the Original BMW Accessories range.
• Model-specific M Sport package and M Sport package Pro are available from the launch of the BMW iX3 50 xDrive.
• The steering wheel and selector lever on the centre console feature a new design, while door openers can be operated at the press of a button. Automatic climate control is operated by touch via the Central Display, and audio volume is controlled using rollers. Rear window heating, windscreen defrost and warning lights can be toggled using buttons on the centre console. The illuminated stowage space is positioned below the centre console.
• Three interior design worlds from which to choose: Contemporary with Veganza seat surfaces in three colour variants, M Sport package with black seat surfaces in Veganza/M Performtex and BMW Individual Merino leather in Black.
• Two-zone automatic climate control, alarm system, telephony with wireless charging, seat heating and electrically operated seat adjustment are standard equipment.

2026 BMW iX3: Carbon footprint vs. petrol-power car – 21,500km to break even

A variety of actions ensure that the product carbon footprint of the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive over its full life cycle – as measured in CO2e (CO2 equivalents) and based on a mileage of 200,000 kilometres – is 34 per cent smaller than that of its predecessor.

This means that, when using energy sourced from the European electricity mix, the fully electric BMW iX3 50 xDrive will have a smaller product carbon footprint (based on overall life cycle) than a comparable combustion-engined model once it has covered around 21,500 kilometres (13,358 miles). If the car is charged exclusively using electricity from renewable sources, it only needs to cover 17,500 kilometres (10,873 miles) before it reaches the same point.

Sustainability-focused efforts during development of the BMW iX3 are as per the below:

• “Secondary first”: Around a third of the new BMW iX3 is made from secondary raw materials.
• Product carbon footprint in the supply chain is 42 per cent (BMW iX3 50 xDrive) smaller than that of the previous model.
• New Gen6 cylindrical cells in the high-voltage battery of the BMW iX3 50 xDrive have a product carbon footprint 42 per cent smaller than the Gen5 battery cells in the predecessor model. This is thanks, among other aspects, to the increased use of electricity from renewable sources and the use of secondary raw materials in the manufacture of the cells.
• Standard specification includes leather-free interior appointments.
• The yarn for the headlining and floor mats is made from 100 per cent^* recycled materials.
• Thermoplastic components for the storage space under the bonnet are made from 30 per cent^* recycled marine plastic.
• Aluminium swivel bearings and hub carriers are made from 80 per cent secondary raw material. Wheel rims are cast from aluminium with a 70 per cent secondary material content.
• Production at BMW Group Plant Debrecen does not use fossil fuels (in normal operation). Electricity needed to make the new BMW iX3 is provided 100 per cent by renewable sources.
• Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology teams up with other BMW EfficientDynamics measures to improve overall vehicle efficiency by 20 per cent (as per WLTP) over the predecessor generation.
• Optimised circularity through increased use of mono-materials and easier disassembly of components.
• Vehicle footprint of the new BMW iX3 available online from the start of production: TÜV-certified report provides greater transparency.