BMW iX3 Neue Klasse Review
When BMW launched the original iX3 in 2020, many electric cars relied on flashy concept styling to stand out. The iX3 took a different approach. It was simply an electric version of the X3, identical inside and out. This made it familiar, practical, and one of the most popular electric SUVs of its time.
Fast forward to today, and the landscape has changed. The new iX3 now competes with some of the best electric SUVs available. But does it live up to its predecessor while standing out among rivals? Here’s a detailed look.
Exterior Design
The new iX3 looks significantly different from the current X3. While the original iX3 mirrored the X3 design almost exactly, the new model takes inspiration from BMW’s i Vision Neue Klasse concept.
Key exterior features include:
Twin LED headlights
Smaller lights integrated into the kidney grille
Sleeker, modern lines giving it a distinct presence
This refreshed design ensures the iX3 looks contemporary while retaining BMW’s signature styling cues.
Interior and Cabin Experience
The interior has been completely redesigned compared to both the old iX3 and the current X3. BMW has focused on quality, comfort, and technology.
Highlights:
Materials: Soft fabric and premium leather dominate the cabin, with harder plastics tucked out of sight
Panoramic iDrive System:
18-inch touchscreen at the center
Panoramic head-up display across the width of the windscreen
Three-part digital display: driver info, satellite navigation, and customizable sections
Intuitive iDrive Software: Faster, easier to navigate than previous versions
Steering Wheel Interaction: Small buttons allow control of the head-up display, though most functions rely on the touchscreen
Driving Position: Elevated seating with electric adjustments and high visibility
Comfort Features: Electric seats with lumbar support (adjusted via touchscreen), front and rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera, and optional remote parking
Practicality and Storage
The cabin is spacious for front and rear passengers:
Front seats provide ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room
Rear accommodates three adults comfortably, though the middle seat is firm
Rear seats can recline and fold in 40:20:40 split for extra boot space
Climate controls and USB-C ports available for rear passengers
Storage Options:
| Feature | Capacity / Notes |
|---|---|
| Boot | 520 liters |
| Frunk | 58 liters |
| Center armrest cubby | Spacious for small items |
| Door bins | Generous size |
| Floor storage | Large hidden compartment under center console |
The flat rear floor and optional middle seat fold make the iX3 versatile for families and long items.
Battery and Range
The iX3 comes with a single battery option:
Usable capacity: 108.7 kWh
Official range: Over 490 miles, outperforming many competitors like the Audi Q6 e-tron and Tesla Model Y Long Range
Charging:
Maximum fast charge: 400 kW, 10–80% in ~21 minutes
Home charging (7 kW wall box): 0–100% in ~17.5 hours
This combination of long range and fast charging makes the iX3 practical for daily driving and long trips.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The iX3 is available as a single version: 50xDrive
Power: 463 bhp to all four wheels
Acceleration: 0–62 mph in 4.9 seconds
Ride Quality: Soft over dips and bumps, smooth yet composed in corners
Handling: Heavier SUV, minor lean in turns, steering provides good feedback
Regenerative Braking: Low, medium, high, or adaptive modes, including soft stop feature for smooth stops
Noise Levels: Minimal wind, road, and motor noise even at higher speeds
Trim Levels and Pricing
The iX3 is offered in three trims:
| Trim | Key Features | Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| iX3 | 20-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry/start, front heated seats, all screens | £58,755 |
| M Sport | Sportier exterior styling, premium interior materials | £61,000+ |
| M Sport Pro | Larger brakes, M Sport steering wheel, M Sport seats, unique alloys | £61,000+ |
While more expensive than the Tesla Model Y (from £44,990), it is competitively priced against the Audi Q6 e-tron (from £60,000).
Safety and Reliability
Standard safety features include lane change assist, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking
Euro NCAP rating not yet available
BMW brand reliability: 6th out of 30 manufacturers in latest surveys
Conclusion
The new BMW iX3 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor. It offers:
Long electric range and fast charging
Strong performance with smooth handling
Spacious, high-quality interior with advanced technology
Practical storage for families and daily use
Overall, the iX3 is a tempting choice for those seeking a premium electric SUV that balances performance, comfort, and usability.
BMW iX3 FAQs
What are the major design changes in the new BMW iX3?
The new iX3 is significantly different from the current X3. It features twin LED headlights, a smaller light integrated into the kidney grille, and sleek modern lines inspired by the i Vision Neue Klasse concept. These updates give it a distinctive, modern appearance.
How is the interior of the new iX3 different from the previous model?
The interior is fully redesigned with premium leather, soft fabric on the dash, and hidden harder materials. It comes with a new panoramic iDrive system, including an 18-inch touchscreen, a wide panoramic head-up display, and a clear, intuitive digital driver display.
What technology features does the iX3 offer?
The iX3 has the latest iDrive software, an 18-inch touchscreen, customizable panoramic head-up display, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and optional remote parking from a mobile phone. It also includes electric seats with lumbar support and wireless phone charging.
How spacious is the iX3 for passengers?
The front seats provide ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room. Rear seating comfortably fits three adults, with a flat floor, reclining seats, and climate controls. The middle seat is firmer but the flat floor ensures plenty of foot space.
What is the boot and storage capacity of the BMW iX3?
The iX3 has a 520-liter boot and a 58-liter front trunk (frunk) for cables or small items. The rear seats split 40:20:40 for flexible cargo space, and there is a cubby under the center console for extra storage. There is no lip to the boot floor, making loading heavy items easier.
What battery and range does the iX3 offer?
The iX3 has a single 108.7 kWh battery, providing an official range of over 490 miles. Fast charging at 400 kW allows 10-80% in around 21 minutes. Home charging on a 7 kW wall box takes about 17 and a half hours for a full charge.
How is the driving performance of the iX3?
The iX3 50xDrive has 463 bhp, powering all four wheels with a 0-62 mph time of 4.9 seconds. It offers a smooth ride over bumps, responsive steering, and well-judged regenerative braking with adaptive and soft stop features. Noise levels are minimal even on rough roads.
What trim levels and pricing are available?
The iX3 comes in three trims:
- iX3: £58,755, includes 20-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, front heated seats, and all screens
- M Sport: £61,000+, adds sporty styling and premium materials
- M Sport Pro: £61,000+, adds larger brakes, M Sport steering wheel, M Sport seats, and unique alloys
What safety and reliability features does the iX3 offer?
Standard safety features include lane change assist, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Euro NCAP testing is pending. BMW’s brand reliability ranks 6th out of 30 manufacturers.
