BMW iX3: The dawn of a new era

A whopping 674 kilometers are displayed on the range indicator. And slightly smaller next to it: «max. 945 km.» That's how far the new BMW iX3 is supposed to go without recharging – and the battery isn't even full yet. With this, the Bavarian manufacturer is breaking new ground in the electric car segment and at the same time signaling the start of a new era. An era of «software-defined vehicles» (SDVs), a new generation of cars developed with a focus on software around the high-voltage battery.

The iX3 is the first model in this «new class,» which takes BMW's electric mobility to a whole new level. Many more will follow: next up is the new 3 Series, which in electric form is called the i3 and whose production version we have already been allowed to see – under strict secrecy. Allow us to give you a little spoiler: compared to the characterful concept car, the production version is designed to be much more suitable for the masses. This model is expected to hit the market in early 2027 – initially, the mid-range SUV iX3 will roll into dealerships in March 2026, initially in the 50 xDrive all-wheel-drive version starting at CHF 78,000.

Great value for money
On closer inspection, this is a competitive price. With a huge battery with a net capacity of 108.7 kWh, enabling a WLTP range of 679 to 805 kilometers and capable of ultra-fast charging at a maximum of 400 kW, and impressive standard equipment, the iX3 is a real bargain. Of course, this is put into perspective when configuring the vehicle – as is usual with BMW, the price list includes many options that are subject to an additional charge.

BMW also goes all out when it comes to the drive system, at least in the 50 xDrive version we drove. With a system output of 345 kW/469 hp and a system torque of 645 Nm, the SUV brings a concentrated load of power to the road. This allows the 4.78-meter-long iX3 to sprint to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h.
Since all four wheels are driven, not only is optimum traction ensured, but also the driving pleasure expected of the brand. Despite weighing 2.3 tons, the iX3 drives very nimbly, eagerly takes corners, and hardly ever behaves unpleasantly, even when deliberately provoked. The ride comfort is excellent, as is the noise insulation – only at highway speeds are wind noises audible.

New panoramic display
Passengers sit comfortably and enjoy very generous space and the pampering features typical of this class. The trunk has a capacity of 520 liters and can be expanded to 1750 liters by folding down the 4:2:4 split rear seat. For additional storage space, there is a «frunk» under the front hood with a capacity of
58 liters, it can easily hold the charging cable and more.

With the new platform, BMW is also introducing a new cockpit design, including a new infotainment system. The big highlight is the Panoramic iDrive: a narrow display strip that runs across almost the entire width of the interior below the windshield. It shows essential driving information and can be easily configured using drag-and-drop. While driving, this new form of info screen is a welcome addition to the head-up display, which is also available: the driver can keep their eyes on the road at all times, with steering wheel buttons and intelligent voice control available to operate the infotainment system.

Speaking of keeping your eyes on the road: on the highway, the new iX3 drives completely autonomously without the need to keep your hands on the steering wheel. The only requirement is that you keep your eyes focused straight ahead on the road. If the cameras detect a distraction, the driver must take back control of the steering. This works excellently up to the maximum permitted speed, including automatic lane changes and speed adjustments. BMW is thus opening the door to autonomous driving quite wide – in this respect, too, the New Class heralds the dawn of a new era.