BMW is rolling out what they’re calling a new era, and at the forefront is the new BMW iX3. This electric SUV is making some big promises, like over 800 km of range and 400 kW DC fast charging. It definitely catches the eye, but does it deliver on all that hype?
A Bold New Look
The front of the iX3 has certainly sparked some conversation. Some people have strong reactions, with one word summing it up for some: "Jesus." Personally, I find it quite interesting. It’s not overly large, and parts of the grille remind me of older BMW 2 Series models. There’s a prominent light bar, which seems to be a must-have for new cars these days. You’ll also notice a bit of glass or maybe silver around the BMW logo, which is a subtle change. There are also cameras integrated into the grille, which is a bit unusual – makes you wonder what BMW was thinking there. The front end has a forward-leaning stance, giving it a unique look. While it might appear huge on camera, it’s actually well-proportioned.
Inside the Neue Klasse
This iX3 is part of BMW’s "Neue Klasse" lineup, and it shows. The wheelbase has been extended, making it feel like it’s from a segment above. For those in China, there’s even a long-wheelbase version, which should mean more interior space. The wheels look familiar, similar to some BMW M cars. This model is likely the closest we’ll get to an M version, though different trim levels will be available. The light bar design echoes the early "Neue Klasse" sketches, even appearing on proposed 3 Series models, and it translates well to the finished product. Thankfully, it still has a windshield wiper.
Key Takeaways
- Striking Design: The new grille and light bar are distinctive, though polarizing.
- Advanced Display: A full-width display across the windscreen, angled towards the driver and passenger.
- Fast Charging: 400 kW DC charging can add over 300 km of range in just 10 minutes.
- Practicality: 520L boot space and a 2,000 kg towing capacity.
- Interior Quality: Feels like a BMW, with soft materials and a focus on recycled elements.
- Pricing: Starts around €74,000, with a cheaper version coming later.
Charging and Practicality
This particular model is the iX3 350, with a price shown on screen. A more affordable version, about €10,000 cheaper, is expected to arrive in July next year, which might be more appealing, especially for customers in places like Ireland where cars can be quite expensive. The car boasts a 2,000 kg towing capacity. The boot offers 520 liters of space, which seems decent, though the exact measurement method might be optimistic. The boot closes automatically, which is a nice touch.
The charging port is located on the side, a common spot that can sometimes be tricky at fast chargers. However, the 400 kW DC charging is impressive – 10 minutes can add over 300 km of range. This is a significant improvement, making the trade-off for zero emissions much more manageable.
Interior Comfort and Features
There have been comments about BMW interiors not feeling like they used to, but the initial feel of the materials in the iX3 seems to align with BMW standards. The ivory color is pleasant, and the armrest is simple. The ISOFIX seats are well-covered, suitable for child seats and potentially future grandchildren. The materials feel soft and yielding. The headrests have a slightly different shape. It also features a panoramic glass roof that doesn’t open, a common feature these days. There are coat hangers, though their placement seems a bit odd, potentially hanging down and hitting you. Unlike some competitors, like the Volkswagen ID.4, there’s no exposed metal in the door frames. There’s enough space under the seats for your feet, and the floor is completely flat. Rear passengers get climate control and two USB charging ports.
Much of the interior uses recycled materials, which is standard practice now. The steering wheel is interesting, with haptic buttons that might take some getting used to. It still has classic BMW stalks. The armrest is quite small, and there’s a 12V charger. The cabin mixes physical buttons with a large screen, similar to what we’ve seen in other BMWs recently.
Technology and Driving Experience
A standout feature is the augmented reality head-up display that stretches across the entire windscreen. It’s angled at 17 degrees and looks quite futuristic, displaying information like music, weather, time, and range. The display shows 55% battery with 401 km remaining, which is a helpful indication of the car’s range. The seats are very comfortable, with a mix of perforations for ventilated cooling. While there might be some less premium materials lower down, overall, it feels like an upgrade compared to the standard X3. Some might not like the recycled materials or the slightly "scratchy" textures, but it’s generally acceptable.
Pricing and Availability
The iX3 will be on sale soon, with deliveries starting March 7th. The price is just under €74,000. Remember, the more affordable version will enter production in July next year, meaning it might not arrive until late 2026. The car has a drag coefficient of 0.24, which is quite good for a large SUV. It’s manufactured in Hungary at a plant that claims to use non-fossil fuels, aiming for zero emissions during production.
Final Thoughts
This is a good-sized family car with a decent range and a 108 kWh battery, comparable in size and range to the Hyundai Ioniq 9, though the Ioniq 9 is a bit larger and more expensive. This is the M Sport version, so it’s likely to be on the pricier side. What are your thoughts on the design, especially the grille, and the interior? Let me know in the comments.