It seems that the world is about to behold a major step forward in automotive design and technology and this latest offering from prestige German car maker BMW is at the forefront. The new iX3 SAV (sport activity vehicle) is the first ‘Neue Klasse’ offering from this brand to hit the showrooms. It pioneers a new era of sheer driving pleasure (something that BMW have always prided themselves on), introducing an all-new design language and a broad spectrum of technological advancements.
Charging & Range
Designed to herald this new approach, the iX3 features the sixth-generation of BMW’s ‘eDrive’ technology, which comprises highly efficient electric motors, new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells and 800-volt technology to set new benchmarks in efficiency and long-distance capability. The result is a single-charge range of up to 500 miles (805 kilometres). This is obviously under test conditions at this stage but the point is, for most users most of the time, the range will be fine for daily, distance use without the need for a top up of electricity.
This makes, as an example, the iX3 50 xDrive (all-wheel-drive) version the longest-range battery electric vehicle (BEV) on sale in the UK market today. Meanwhile, a maximum charging rate of 400kW enables drivers to add up to 231 miles (371 km) of range to their car in just ten minutes at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station. That’s more like it.
Under the skin, the iX3 has what BMW like to call a new ‘digital nervous system’, developed from scratch for all future BMW Group drive system variants and model segments, making its debut in this new compact SAV. At its core are four ‘super brain’ high-performance computers, which cover driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and basic comfort functions such as vehicle access, climate control and seat adjustment.
The Refined Exterior
The new BMW iX3 embodies compact but bold proportions. Its distinctive ‘two-box’ design combines the rugged presence of a BMW X model with large surfaces and clear lines, highlighting all four wheels. The wheelbase and track are greater than previous similar models and the car has optimised aerodynamics, resulting in a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.24; ideal for a BEV.
The car has been designed solely around an all-electric power-train and offers an impressive exterior-footprint-to-interior-space ratio, with generous space for passengers and storage. The luggage compartment can be increased from 520 litres to a maximum of 1,750 litres with the rear seats folded flat in a 40/20/40 ratio, while an additional storage compartment under the bonnet (hood) holds a further 58 litres of cargo. Buyers needing extra storage capability can specify their new BMW iX3 with an electrically operated tow bar. The maximum towing capacity for the ‘50 xDrive’ model variant is 2,000kg.
With its upright front end, the new BMW iX3 has a commanding presence. Large air intakes and a black band in the lower portion of the bumper contribute to its sporty appearance, while reduced surface treatment helps emphasise prominent design features. The new sculpted BMW kidneys are vertically arranged in the grille. Positioned either side are new headlights featuring vertical daytime running lights, complemented by a new distinctive horizontal light signature spanning the width of the vehicle. The optional BMW Iconic Glow for the BMW ‘kidneys’ further enhances the front-end design.
Clear lines and large surfaces seamlessly flow into the side profile of the new BMW iX3, appearing as if the design has been cut from a single mould. In traditional BMW X-style, wheel arches are finished in body colour with subtle rectangular contours. Large glass areas with hidden seals bring a light and open feel to the cabin, while a downward-sloping roofline contributes to optimised aerodynamics. Newly designed flush door handles extend automatically when the user approaches with their BMW Digital Key.
A heavily tapered and pronounced shoulder section defines the rear of the vehicle. Horizontally arranged tail lights in the familiar L-shape design span the entire mid-section, where individual light sources are split through several increments to create a sense of depth. The roofline is finished with a new roof spoiler, featuring a central recess, which continues down into the space between the rear lights to host the updated BMW roundel.
New acoustic and visual ‘welcome and goodbye animations’ enhance the exterior design. A reduced sequence of effects is offered as standard, while the optional BMW ‘Iconic Glow’ brings additional sequences in styles called ‘Relaxed’, ‘Balanced’ and ‘Excited’. These effects add theatre when approaching the vehicle, continuing inside the cabin via the BMW ‘Panoramic Vision’ and Central Display as the driver takes their seat.
The Premium Interior
The new BMW iX3 has a very contemporary and minimalist interior which sets the stage for an intuitive digital experience. In typical BMW fashion, the entire cockpit is oriented around the driver, while a new vehicle architecture, designed solely for all-electric models, helps provide generous space in all five seats.
The lines of the ‘floating’ instrument panel flow directly into the large door trim panels, creating an enveloping wrap-around effect. With its fabric surface, the instrument panel (with optional atmospheric backlighting) helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the cockpit. Large windows and a full-length panoramic sunroof, available optionally with sun protection glass, flood the interior with natural light.
A newly designed steering wheel features pronounced thumb rests and multi-function buttons for intuitive operation. Redesigned seats offer high levels of comfort and are clad with a reduced amount of plastic trim for an elegant appearance. The driver and front passenger seats are heated and electrically adjustable as standard and the rear seat bench has a single sofa-like surface. Also electrically operated are new door openers at both the front and rear, with controls conveniently positioned behind the window buttons on the pull handles.
The centre console offers further storage and features an entirely new design. A storage area beneath the armrest houses a 12V power supply, while the front section of the centre console is complete with a wireless charging tray with room for two mobile devices, two USB-C ports and two cup holders separated by a triangular illuminated trim element. The space behind it houses the gear selector, a roller switch for volume control and physical buttons for the parking brake, rear window heating, windscreen defrosting and hazard warning lights. Additional storage is offered below the centre console.
The centre console offers further storage and features an entirely new design. A storage area beneath the armrest houses a 12V power supply, while the front section of the centre console is complete with a wireless charging tray with room for two mobile devices, two USB-C ports and two cup holders separated by a triangular illuminated trim element. The space behind it houses the gear selector, a roller switch for volume control and physical buttons for the parking brake, rear window heating, windscreen defrosting and hazard warning lights. Additional storage is offered below the centre console.
It’s here inside the vehicle that the new technology really makes itself felt: The BMW ‘Panoramic iDrive’ brings together four central elements into a unique display and control/operation system. The BMW ‘Panoramic Vision’ projects information across the full width of the windscreen from pillar to pillar where key driving information appears directly in the driver’s field of vision. Meanwhile, content projected in the centre and front passenger side of the display can be customised to personal tastes and requirements.
Truly, if we were to list all the technology on board this prestige new car, it would be like reading the unexpurgated version of War and Peace, so here’s the bullet points: The standard-fit navigation system, BMW Maps, includes an upgrade for charging-optimised route guidance, along with an intelligently coordinated display of information across the BMW Panoramic Vision, Central Display and 3D Head-Up Display, when specified.
When a DC charger is set in BMW Maps, the iX3 automatically pre-conditions the high-voltage battery to the optimal temperature for faster charging, with manual and ‘My BMW App’ control also available. A ‘’MAX RANGE’ function in ‘My Mode Efficient’ can extend range by up to 25 per cent by carefully limiting drive power and top speed and scaling back selected comfort functions. The iX3 is also, it goes without saying, fully loaded with the very latest in safety and infotainment technology. Orders will be taken for this SAV from Autumn 2025 with the first UK deliveries early 2026.
BMW With MHH International
As the BMW iX3 heralds the future of electric driving, MHH International continues to make the brand’s exceptional line-up accessible today. We export a wide selection of new and pre-owned BMW models from the UK to destinations worldwide — including New Zealand, Kenya, Mauritius and many more. Renowned for delivering sheer driving pleasure, the BMW range truly offers something for every enthusiast. With VAT-free options available and a fully managed export service, we make sourcing your BMW as seamless as the drive itself. Get in touch to discover how we can deliver your next car with confidence and care.
