Launch Report: BMW iX3 brings the Neue Klasse platform to the road
28 January 2026
BMW’s Neue Klasse platform is finally here, as the new iX3 goes on sale. But will the model prove to be a hit, and establish a good grounding for the much-anticipated technology? Autovista24 special content editor, Phil Curry, reviews the model alongside regional experts.
With bold new designs and cutting-edge technology, the new BMW iX3 is the first of the brand’s Neue Klasse platform. It is the first in a new family of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) built around the philosophy, pioneering the concept on the road.
The iX3 is, therefore, one of the most important models the carmaker has ever launched.
With effectively a blank canvas, defying other BMW brand styling designs and philosophies, the new iX3 can forge its own path. The good news for the carmaker is that it seems to have succeeded, providing a good base for the Neue Klasse to grow from.
Autovista24’s latest Launch Report benchmarks the BMW iX3 against its key competitors in Austria, France, Germany and the UK. Regional experts also provide a breakdown of the car’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
Bold design for new iX3
BMW has kept some of its design cues from its Neue Klasse concepts on the new iX3. This includes the illuminated kidney grill, which is smaller, features more angles, but still sits proudly in the centre of the car. These angles translate across the front, with an upward sweeping grill into the LED lighting, symbolising movement.
These angles continue across the car, giving it a boxy, yet dynamic look. The rear features large LED lights that echo the layout at the front. This helps provide a sense of symmetry.
The design also gives a sense of size. The iX3 looks like a large SUV, when in reality, it is similar in length to the BMW 3-series.
Technology rich
Stepping into the BMW iX3 feels like a departure from the brand’s other models. It has been completely redesigned, providing a feeling of space. The incorporated technology helps make the driving experiencve much easier.
BMW has incorporated its new Panoramic iDrive system, with a glass screen stretching below the windscreen. This projects all driver instruments, and places them in the eyeline, making it easier to focus on the information provided.
This screen is also customisable, with the central and passenger side elements able to house various apps. This can also be used to extend the driver information.
Below this, a 17.9-inch infotainment screen sits with and angled look, again embracing the futuristic designs that are integral to the Neue Klasse concept. This houses many of the vehicle’s systems, with few physical controls inside. It does, however, provide a number of shortcuts to get to certain vehicle-critical areas.
The Panoramic iDrive has allowed BMW to modify the steering wheel design, and the carmaker has landed on a four-spoke look, incorporating the angles featured throughout the interior. It houses several buttons, although the placing of these does make them difficult to reach, especially for those with smaller hands.
Practically perfect
BMW has used a number of recycled and sustainable materials in the new iX3. For example, the carmaker states that 30% of the secondary raw material used for the engine compartment cover and the frunk is recycled maritime plastic. Secondary aluminium accounts for 80% of the wheel carriers and swivel bearings, as well as 70% of the cast aluminium wheels.
There are some recycled materials inside as well. Together with hard plastics around some surfaces, this belies the high-quality feel that is expected from BMW models. However, this is not to say the interior feels substandard, with a modern look and comfortable surroundings for both front and rear passengers.
The flat floor helps with rear legroom, while a central passenger can be carried with ease. Thanks to the high roofline, headroom is good, even without the optional panoramic sunroof.
There are plenty of storage options inside as well. The boot space is also very generous, at 510-litres. The iX3 also features a 58-litre frunk for additional load carrying or cable storage.
Driving dynamics for new iX3
One area where BMW models traditionally stand out is their driving dynamics. This is a key test for the Neue Klasse, with a new battery and electric motor layout which could impact the feel on the road.
Thankfully, it does not. The new iX3 feels balanced on the road, even with its two-tonne weight. There is little body roll, with the suspension absorbing most of the movement. Steering is precise, and agile in urban environments.
BMW has also incorporated Soft Stop, which removes the hard and sharp stopping motion when braking is applied. This works whether it is the driver, or onboard systems, that have slowed the car. The iX3 also features regenerative braking to feed energy into the battery, although this is controlled via touchscreen, with no physical buttons or paddles.
The carmaker states the new iX3 will achieve 500 miles (804km) of range, according to WLTP testing. The model comes with a 112kWh battery, powering a dual motor layout. It comes complete with an 800-volt electric system, that allows for ultra-rapid chargers up to 400kW to feed energy into the storage unit. It is also smart-energy ready, allowing it to support bi-directional charging.
Overall, the new BMW iX3 sets a good course for the Neue Klasse. It is well designed with some clever technological advances. Additionally, it provides good driver and passenger comfort, strong driving dynamics, and effortless practicality.
View the interactive dashboard, which benchmarks the BMW iX3 in Austria, France, Germany and the UK. The interactive dashboard presents new prices, forecast residual values, and SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis.
