BMW iX3 launches Neue Klasse era with 805 km range

BMW introduces the new iX3, first Neue Klasse model with 805 km WLTP range, 400 kW charging, advanced electronics, and production start in Debrecen, Hungary.

BMW has opened the Neue Klasse era with the new iX3, the first series-produced model of the next generation. It’s a fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle that combines a fresh design language, a new electronic backbone, and a rethought user experience. The world premiere took place on 5 September 2025 in Munich, underscoring that this is less a routine update and more a leap that feels like skipping an entire vehicle generation.

At its core is sixth-generation BMW eDrive with an 800-volt system and dual motors. In the iX3 50 xDrive, total output is 345 kW (469 hp) and 645 Nm; 0–100 km/h takes 4.9 seconds and top speed is 210 km/h. A cylindrical-cell battery (cell-to-pack, integrated structurally) provides a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, enabling a quoted WLTP range of 679–805 km depending on specification.

Charging is a highlight. DC peaks at up to 400 kW, with a 10–80% session taking around 21 minutes. On a high-power charger, the car can add up to 372 km of range in just ten minutes (WLTP/ISO12906). Thanks to an integrated switching matrix, the iX3 also works efficiently on 400-volt stations. AC charging is 11 kW as standard; a 22 kW option is planned from the 03/2026 production period. Bidirectional functions (V2L, V2H, V2G) are likewise slated from 03/2026.

A new electronic architecture brings four high-performance “superbrains”. The Heart of Joy domain controller governs powertrain and vehicle dynamics with computation speeds up to 10× faster than conventional ECUs, translating into precise responses and notably smooth deceleration (Soft Stop). In everyday city driving, up to 98% of braking events are handled by recuperation alone. A separate superbrain for driver assistance boosts compute by roughly 20× and expands functionality—from prolonged hands-off motorway support to traffic-light recognition with automatic stopping and set-off in city use.

The user experience is equally reimagined. BMW Panoramic iDrive integrates Panoramic Vision across the full windscreen, an optional 3D Head-Up Display, and a free-cut Central Display positioned next to the steering wheel. Frequently used functions sit in vertical widgets, while physical controls remain where they best support “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road”. Underpinning it is the new BMW Operating System X with BMW ID personalisation, improved charging-aware navigation, Digital Key Plus, and an expanded app ecosystem—from video streaming to in-car gaming and video calls. Plug & Charge with multi-contract support (up to ten contracts) is included.

As a practical SAV, the iX3 keeps its utility: dimensions are 4,782×1,895×1,635 mm, aero is improved to Cd 0.24, luggage space ranges from 520 to 1,750 litres, there’s a 58-litre front compartment, and the 50 xDrive variant is rated to tow up to 2,000 kg.

Series production begins at BMW Group Plant Debrecen (Hungary) in autumn 2025, which operates without fossil fuels under normal conditions. Market launch is planned for spring 2026 in Europe and summer 2026 in the USA. A China-specific variant will be produced in Shenyang with deliveries also from summer 2026. According to business media, indicative European pricing starts at €68,900 (official BMW price lists were not published at premiere time).

sustainability is central rather than cosmetic. The model’s life-cycle CO₂e is reduced by 34% versus its predecessor at a 200,000-km basis; the supply chain footprint drops by 35%, and WLTP energy consumption is down by 20%. Roughly one third of the vehicle uses secondary materials, marine-source recycled plastics are used for front-compartment components, textiles are made from 100% recycled PET, and the chassis and wheels employ high shares of secondary aluminium.

Strategically, the iX3 is more than a new electric crossover: it’s the first of a generation whose technologies are set to underpin around 40 models and updates by 2027. That explains the restrained, “reduced” design and the push toward a software-defined architecture. Final market-specific certifications (such as EPA range) and timing for certain features (including 22 kW AC and bidirectional charging from 03/2026 production) remain to be completed, but the direction is clear: the iX3 sets the pace BMW intends to keep in the Neue Klasse era.