BMW’s Next-Gen Electric SUV to Be Called iX3, Here’s When It’ll Debut
BMW this year will launch its new generation of EVs, known as Neue Klasse, starting with the production of an SUV based on the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. At its 2025 annual conference on Friday, the German automaker confirmed that the vehicle will be called iX3.
As you may know, BMW already sells an iX3 in China, based on the third-generation X3. That vehicle has never made it to North America, where the larger and more advanced iX is available—and soon to benefit from a significant mid-cycle update.
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However, the all-new 2026 BMW iX3 will be completely different from both in terms of design and technology. Mainly, it will feature the sixth generation of the eDrive propulsion system along with an 800V electric architecture promising 30-percent faster charging speeds and a 30-percent increase in range, with certain models achieving even higher figures.
New, slimmer high-voltage batteries with 20-percent greater energy density will be part of the mix. Not only that, but bidirectional charging will be included as standard, allowing owners to power or charge devices or another EV using the battery’s own power.
Ultimately, when compared to a previous-generation xDrive model, future Neue Klasse models will be 10 percent lighter and 20 percent cheaper to produce, BMW claims.
Inside, expect a whole new driving environment as previewed most recently by the Vision Driving Experience high-performance test vehicle. The key component is the so-called “Heart of Joy” control unit for the drivetrain, brakes, charging, recuperation system and steering. It’s said to compute all the driving dynamics functions ten times faster than previous systems.
The 2026 BMW iX3 will make its global debut at IAA 2025 in Munich, Germany. The show kicks off on September 9. Sales in Canada are projected to begin in the first half of 2026. The iX3 will be followed by an electric compact sedan to be sold alongside the next-generation 3 Series and likely called i3.