BMW has been talking about the Neue Klasse for years. We’ve written here on BimmerFile about its role as both a callback to BMW’s pivotal 1960s sedan lineup and a forward-looking leap into electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. Today, that vision steps onto the road for the first time with the debut of the all-new BMW iX3 — the first series-production Neue Klasse model.
This isn’t just a new EV. The iX3 represents a clean break in architecture, technology, and design philosophy. It’s the first real glimpse of how BMW intends to scale the innovations of the Neue Klasse across nearly 40 models by 2027.
A New Benchmark in Electric Performance
At the heart of the iX3 is BMW’s Gen6 eDrive technology: cylindrical-cell high-voltage batteries, more efficient electric motors, and an 800V architecture that unlocks up to 400 kW charging. That means ~230 miles of range added in just 10 minutes, a huge step forward for real-world long-distance usability.
The iX3 50 xDrive launches with 463 hp from dual motors, a 0–60 mph time of around 4.7 seconds, and up to 400 miles of range (preliminary BMW AG testing, based on EPA standards). Just as important, it introduces new levels of efficiency — a 40% reduction in energy loss compared to Gen5 systems and a 20% reduction in manufacturing cost.
And for the first time, BMW is opening the door to bi-directional charging. Vehicle-to-Grid, Vehicle-to-Home, and Vehicle-to-Load capability turn the iX3 into an energy ecosystem rather than just a consumer of electricity.
Superbrains and the “Heart of Joy”
If hardware defines the foundation, the software defines the character. The iX3 debuts a new electronics architecture with four “superbrains” — high-performance computers that run driving dynamics, automation, infotainment, and core functions.
The most important of these for drivers is the “Heart of Joy,” a control unit that integrates drivetrain, braking, steering, and energy recuperation at lightning speed. The result? A more intuitive, seamless driving feel than any BMW EV to date. In fact, BMW claims that in everyday driving, 98% of braking maneuvers can be handled entirely by regenerative braking, leaving friction brakes for emergencies and spirited driving.
It’s not just efficiency — it’s about consistency. This system aims to create repeatable, precise behavior in cornering and response, restoring some of the predictability and feedback enthusiasts worried might be lost in the transition to EVs.
Panoramic iDrive and Symbiotic Interaction
Neue Klasse also means a complete rethink of the digital cockpit. The iX3 is the first BMW to feature Panoramic iDrive — an expansive A-pillar-to-A-pillar projection integrated into the lower windscreen. Paired with a central display, 3D head-up display, and a shy-tech multifunction steering wheel, the system re-centers focus where BMW has always wanted it: eyes on the road, hands on the wheel.
Layered onto this is BMW’s concept of “symbiotic driving” — a fusion of driver input and intelligent assistance. From symbiotic brakes to AI-driven Highway Assistant with eye-activated lane changes, BMW is exploring ways to make automation feel less like handing over control and more like a fluid partnership.
A New Design Language
If the tech is a revolution, the design is the statement. Adrian van Hooydonk and his team describe the Neue Klasse design language as “reduced, characterful, timeless.” In practice, that means a cleaner surfacing approach, vertical kidneys that echo the 2002 and 1600, and a lighting signature that redefines the iconic BMW “four-eyed” face.
The proportions are classic BMW X: 188 inches long, 114-inch wheelbase, and an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.24. Inside, the focus is on space, sustainability, and light. Materials like Veganza and M PerformTex define the baseline, while digital experiences like HypersonX driving sounds and fully adaptive ambient lighting create the emotional layer.
Why New iX3 Matters So Much for BMW
We’ve been writing on BimmerFile for years that Neue Klasse isn’t just about new EVs — it’s about BMW redefining the very core of what makes a BMW. The iX3 is the first step in proving that.
It sets benchmarks in charging, range, and efficiency. It brings entirely new digital experiences and an electronics backbone that will evolve faster than any BMW before it. And crucially, it anchors all of this in the driving feel — the “Heart of Joy” — that keeps BMW’s heritage intact.
Production begins at BMW’s new Debrecen plant in early 2026, with U.S. deliveries starting mid-year. At around $60,000, the iX3 50 xDrive won’t just be the first Neue Klasse BMW you can buy — it will be the car that defines the next decade of what The Ultimate Driving Machine means.
Our take? This isn’t just another new X model. The iX3 is the proof point for everything BMW has promised about Neue Klasse. And if it delivers on its spec sheet, it could mark the moment where BMW turns the page and writes its next great chapter.
BMW iX3 Gallery
BMW iX3 Specifications (preliminary )
| iX3 50 xDrive | ||
| Body | ||
| Seats | — | 5 |
| Number of Doors | — | 5 |
| Drive type | — | AWD |
| Length | in | 188.3 |
| Width | in | 74.6 |
| Width including mirrors | in | 82.4 |
| Height | in | 64.4 |
| Wheelbase | in | 114.1 |
| Ground clearance | in | 6.9 |
| Turning diameter | ft | 39.7 |
| Weight distribution front / rear | % | 48.6 / 51.4 |
| Cargo capacity (rear) | cu ft | 30.4-65.0 |
| Cargo capacity (front) | cu ft | 2.0 |
| Drivetrain | ||
| Drive concept | Electric all-wheel-drive, coordinated transmission of the drive torque from two electric motors to the front and rear wheels as required | |
| Electric motors | Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear axle, asynchronous motor at the front axle, each sharing a housing with the power electronics and transmission; generator function for recuperating energy | |
| Front motor output | hp | 165 |
| Front motor torque | lb-ft | 188 |
| Rear motor output | hp | 322 |
| Rear motor torque | lb-ft | 321 |
| Combined output | hp | 463 |
| Combined torque | lb-ft | 476 |
| Transmission | Single speed with fixed ratio | |
| Gear ratio F / R | :1 | 8.80 / 9.61 |
| High-voltage battery | Lithium-ion | |
| Voltage | V | 698.9 |
| Net usable energy content | kWh | TBA |
| Charging time, 0-100% | hrs | 11.0 (11 kW) |
| Charging time, 10-80% | min | 21 (400 kW DC) |
| Maximum charging, DC | kW | 400 |
| Driving dynamics and safety | ||
| Suspension, front | Double-joint spring strut axle in lightweight aluminum-steel construction with torque arm and anti-roll bar. Trapezoidal shear panels forming connection between axle subframe, high-voltage battery, and body | |
| Suspension, rear | Five-link axle in lightweight aluminum-steel construction with separately arranged springs and dampers | |
| Brakes, front | Vented disc brakes with single-piston floating calipers | |
| Brakes, rear | Vented disc brakes with single-piston floating calipers | |
| Brake discs, front / rear | in | 13.0 / 13.6 |
| Steering | EPS with Servotronic | |
| Turns (lock to lock) | 2.8 | |
| Wheels, standard, front / rear | in | 8.5J x 20 |
| Tires, standard, front / rear | 255/45 R20 105W XL | |
| Track, front | in | 64.1 |
| Rear, track | in | 64.3 |
| Cx | — | 0.24 |
| 0-60 mph | sec | 4.7 (est) |
| Top speed | mph | 130 |