Munich, Germany. mobile.bg team from the event site.
The first model from BMW's Neue Klasse is now a reality. The electric Sports Activity Vehicle, called the iX3, has just been shown for the first time, and a mobile.bg team is at the event site in the German city of Munich. Our first impressions of the latest BMW are that this is more than just another new model in the Bavarians' range.
This crossover launches a new architecture that will be the basis of the company's future cars, regardless of their drivetrain. Specifically, with this model, BMW aims to define a completely new approach to electrification, digitalization and overall sustainability, positioning itself as a direct competitor to models such as the Tesla Model Y and Audi Q6 e-tron.
One of the most important aspects of the new iX3 is its completely new electronic and software architecture. It is based on four powerful “superbrains“ that control driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment and comfort functions. One of these “brains” is called “Heart of Joy” and is responsible for powertrain control, promising new levels of dynamics and precision.
Exterior
The design of the iX3 marks the beginning of a new design language for BMW. It is distinguished by elegant, yet aggressive lines that give the crossover an imposing presence on the road. The car features compact headlights and modern LED lighting that emphasizes the false grille. It is reminiscent of the classic BMW 2002, but has been reimagined with a futuristic approach. The taillights, in turn, are a horizontal interpretation of the traditional "L" shape.
Interior
In the interior, the focus is on digitalization and minimalism. The driver and passengers will be greeted by the completely new "BMW Panoramic iDrive" and "BMW Operating System X" systems. It is based on a huge 17.9-inch touch display that extends from edge to edge of the dashboard. Information is displayed on a low-lying surface at the bottom of the windshield via three-dimensional projection. This is a new approach that aims to provide intuitive control without the driver having to take their eyes off the road, while artificial intelligence supports various functions.
Engine, battery and platform
The new BMW iX3 uses the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, which includes highly efficient electric motors and innovative high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, as well as 800-volt technology. The car is powered by two electric motors, which provide a system output of 345 kW (469 hp) and a torque of 645 Nm. This enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h.
The electric all-wheel drive consists of a synchronous electric motor with electric excitation on the rear axle and a new asynchronous motor on the front axle. The energy density at the cell level is 20% higher than the previous generation, and the charging speed has been increased by 30%. With a usable energy capacity of 108.7 kWh, the battery provides a range of up to 805 kilometers. The maximum charging power is 400 kW, which allows charging from 10% to 80% in 21 minutes.
The sixth-generation "eDrive" technology provides a range that exceeds 800 km. according to WLTP, with cylindrical cell batteries contributing to a 30% greater range. The electric car has an 800-volt architecture that allows charging with a power of up to 400 kW. This combination of long range and fast charging is key to the model's success. The company announced that it will take only 10 minutes to add over 350 km. range, which is an impressive achievement.
One of the most important aspects of the Neue Klasse platform is BMW's sixth generation of batteries. The new cylindrical cells have a 20% higher volumetric energy density and a 30% longer range compared to the previous generation. In addition, they are 50% cheaper to produce, which will make BMW's electric cars more affordable. The cylindrical design improves efficiency and allows for faster charging.
The new iX3 offers different drive configurations to meet the needs of different customers. While the base version has rear-wheel drive, the more powerful variants use two electric motors that provide electric drive to all four wheels. This approach ensures excellent traction and dynamics in all conditions. The maximum output of the most powerful version reaches 600 hp, which makes the iX3 an extremely fast and agile crossover.
Production
The iX3 will be produced at BMW's plant in Debrecen, Hungary, from autumn 2025. The iX3 50 xDrive with dual electric drive will be launched initially, with other versions, including the base model, to follow later. The most important markets for the model will be Europe and the US, while a special version will be produced in Shenyang for China.
Over-the-air updates
The Neue Klasse's software architecture is centralized, allowing for over-the-air software updates. This means the car will become smarter and receive new features over time. The BMW iX3 will be equipped with the latest version of the iDrive operating system, which is fully integrated with the company's digital services.
Carbon footprint
Finally, something that BMW specialists are very proud of, but it is unlikely to interest the majority of potential customers in our country. In addition to technological and design innovations, BMW is also focusing on sustainability. About a third of the new iX3 is made from recycled materials. According to the company, the model's carbon footprint is 34% lower than its predecessor. Production at the Debrecen plant is also carried out entirely with renewable energy, which further reduces the environmental impact.
The Neue Klasse is not just a new platform, but an expression of BMW's overall vision for the future
With the iX3, the company wants to show that it can create cars that are simultaneously modern, digitally oriented, sustainable and most importantly – retain the traditional driving pleasure that is their trademark. Our initial impressions are that the new generation of BMW cars looks promising, and the iX3 is just the first step in this bold transformation.