Next-Gen BMW iX3: First of the “Neue Klasse” Era

The second generation BMw iX3

BMW has revealed key details about the upcoming second-generation iX3, which will also be the first production model built on the brand’s new “Neue Klasse” (or New Class) platform. Scheduled for its world premiere at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, the new iX3 will enter production later that year at the German automaker’s state-of-the-art facility in Debrecen, Hungary.

In terms of the exterior of the car, there are no recent information about it. However, the concept was previewed last year, and  taking the concept as a reference, the iX3 comes with the iconic kidney grille as a three-dimensional sculpture,  inspired by classic E21, and E30. Wide headlights seamlessly integrate into the grille, while chrome trim has been replaced with LED accents. At the rear, the taillights stop short of spanning the full width to avoid generic EV styling, while L-shaped elements are replaced with distinctive LED graphics.

The iX3 concept
Image: BMW

In terms of interior, the iX3 comes with the BMW Panoramic iDrive system—a revolutionary display and control interface designed for maximum driver focus. This includes the wide-spanning Panoramic Vision display embedded in the windshield, a 3D Head-Up Display, and a central matrix-lit display positioned ergonomically close to the steering wheel.

Complementing the visual technology is a new shy-tech multifunction steering wheel, which offers illuminated controls with haptic feedback, which according to the automaker, allows drivers to stay connected without taking their eyes off the road. The system is powered by the all-new BMW Operating System X, offering customization and over-the-air updates.

Interior of the concept
Image: BMW

At the heart of the new iX3 lies BMW’s 6th-generation eDrive technology (Gen6). The Gen6 includes newly developed cylindrical battery cells offering 20% higher energy density, which enables the iX3 50 xDrive to achieve an electric range of up to 800km. Furthermore, since it is built on the new 800V articture, it can replesnish over 350km in just 10 minutes of charge via 400 kW DC fast charging.

BMW has introduced a smarter, AI-assisted charging flap that opens automatically when approaching familiar charging points. Additionally, the iX3 supports bidirectional charging with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities—enabling it to act as a power source or home energy storage unit.

BMW conducting tests on the iX3
Image: BMW

The “Heart of Joy” computing system and BMW Dynamic Performance Control software bring a new level of responsiveness and driving pleasure. With 10x faster processing than previous systems, the iX3 offers sharper handling, smoother regenerative braking (down to a full stop), and seamless integration between steering, braking, and power delivery.

Driver assistance also gets a major upgrade. The new “Superbrain of Automated Driving” fuses rule-based logic with AI, enabling features like automated lane changes, urban driving aids, and symbiotic cooperative braking. Enhanced parking systems offer intuitive AI-powered assistance and obstacle avoidance.

(Source: BMW Press Release [1] [2] / Paultan.org)

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