New BMW iX3 to Debut in Late 2025 – Neue Klasse X Concept Offers First Design Hints

BMW's 2026 iX3 electric SUV is almost ready for its global premiere, with testing now in the final stages. The new iX3 will feature BMW's latest innovations in electric vehicle (EV) technology. Preceded by the Neue Klasse Vision X concept, the new iX3 will be based on the new Gen6 EV platform, providing enhancements in range, performance, and overall efficiency.

Final Stages of Testing

The 2026 BMW iX3 is being put through hot-weather testing in South Africa. BMW has released images of the prototype SUV in these tests, providing a preview of the car ahead of its unveiling later this year. The new iX3 is the second generation of BMW's electric X3 line and will be the first to have the Gen6 platform specifically created for electric cars.

Design Differences from the Concept

The production version of the iX3's design is different from the Vision X concept in many respects. While the concept was aggressive with sharp edges and prominent character elements, the production version has a smoother and more elegant look. The body panels are less sculpted, the bumpers' design is less aggressive, and flush door handles have been relocated to the doors rather than the window line. Also, conventional wing mirrors have been used in place of the camera-based side mirrors of the concept.

Some of the concept's elements have, however, been carried over. These are the unique front and rear lighting signatures. The iX3 will have a signature LED daytime running light pattern for the front lights and thin horizontal tail-lamps with an L-shaped design at the back.

New Gen6 Platform and Advanced Features

The iX3, which is about to be released, will become the first to employ BMW's Gen6 EV platform. While details of the platform are still not fully announced, BMW did confirm that it will feature an 800V electrical system, which will support fast charging. The new platform will also have batteries that will be 20% more energy-dense compared to existing batteries, leading to a dramatic increase in driving range. BMW has vowed that all Neue Klasse platform cars will have at least a 600-kilometer range (WLTP cycle), and the iX3 should match or surpass this goal.

Lighter and more efficient electric motors will also be employed by the Gen6 platform. The iX3 will probably have single- and dual-motor versions, with up to four motors available in more powerful versions of the SUV.

Projected Release and International Availability

BMW is set to officially announce the 2026 iX3 this year. After its unveiling, the car will become available for sale in global markets in 2026. In addition to the iX3, BMW will launch the i3 sedan, of which the Vision Neue Klasse concept was a preview. The conventional combustion-engine X3 will remain on sale in addition to the new electric iX3.

The new iX3 is also likely to be on sale in India, alongside the fourth generation of the X3, which went on sale in the country earlier this year with petrol and diesel power.

In summary, the new BMW iX3 is looking to be a thrilling addition to BMW's expanding electric vehicle range. With its cutting-edge technology, enhanced efficiency, and sporty design, the iX3 is poised to raise the bar in the electric SUV segment.

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