BMW iX3 Debuts as First Neue Klasse EV with a 400 Mile Range and Super Fast Charging

Yesterday, BMW announced their first production model that will be built on its Neue Klasse platform, the all new iX3. This iX3 is fully electric and has up to 400 miles of range, a 400 kW charging architecture, and is set to launch in summer 2026 with a $60,000 price tag.

Why It Matters

This marks a new era for BMW, blending classic brand DNA with next-gen EV innovation, with Neue Klasse, its future-focused project with a new design language, software platform, and eDrive tech.

Performance and Charging

The iX3 50 xDrive, which will be the launch model, has 463 hp, dual-motor AWD, and can go from 0-60 in an impressive 4.7 seconds. With BMW’s 6th-gen eDrive tech, the new iX3 has 40% fewer energy losses and a 20% higher battery energy density.

When you charge the new iX3 it will go from 10-80% in 21 minutes, with an 800v DC fast-charging station. And will also be able to add an impressive 230 miles in just 10 minutes! The vehicle also has bi-directional charging, which means it can power devices, a home, or feed the grid. Like most newer EVs the iX3 has a NACS port, allowing it to connect to Tesla’s Supercharger network, and others with an adapter.

Image:BMW

Design and Interior

With BMW embracing its new Neue Klasse platform, they are embracing a new design language. This new iX3 is no exception, with its modern and historic brand styling both in play.

The front gets a new take with its four-eyed face, and vertical kidney grilles, inspired by the 60s and 70s Neue Klasse models. The wheels are 20-inch alloys, the door handles are flush, and the iX3 also gets a new rear light signature.

The interior is minimal, uncluttered, and driver-focused. The car seats 5, and has lots of room, with seat options of Veganza, M PerformTex, or Merino Leather.

Image:BMW

Digital Experience

The Digital Experience combines physical elements with digital elements, for intuitive controls. In the cockpit you get four main parts: the Panoramic Vision, which projects info across your windshield for all occupants to see, a 17.9-inch Central Display, with a QuickSelect menu, a multifunction steering wheel with tech buttons with haptic feedback, and lastly an optional 3D Heads-Up Display. The Intelligent Personal Assistant also got upgraded with new voices, animations, and active suggestions.

Image:BMW

Intelligence and Safety

The new electronic architecture has 4 “superbrain” computers, which help with managing driving dynamics, ADAS, infotainment and also cuts wiring weight by 30%.

The “Heart of Joy” system will manage driving feel, processes data 10x faster, and makes 98% of braking be from energy recuperation.

The iX3 comes standard with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, has optional Highway Assist for hands-free driving, and Symbiotic Drive, which blends AI with driver inputs for seamless control.

Production and Launch

The new iX3 will be built at BMW’s plant in Debrecen Hungary, with the iX3 50 xDrive being the first version. Other models, including single-motor versions, will follow later.

Sustainability

The life-cycle carbon footprint of this new BMW will be reduced by 30% vs earlier BMW EV models. This comes from materials they use, how production is designed for efficiency, and reduced impact.

Are you thinking of getting the new iX3 when it comes out? Do you like BMW’s shift to a more modern approach to cars? Leave your answer in the comments!

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