BMW has spent the last half-decade teasing its next big step in electric mobility, the Neue Klasse family, a fresh start for the brand’s EV future. After getting an early preview at the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show, we finally had the chance to it through its paces on the sun-soaked roads around Malaga. Here’s how it shapes up.

Performance

The version we tested was the iX3 xDrive50, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive model that will launch first in Europe. With 463hp, it’s noticeably more powerful than the outgoing iX3 and delivers a 0–100km/h time of 4.9 seconds, quick enough to make overtaking an effortless affair, without resorting to the extremes of BMW’s Plaid-rivalling models.

What stands out isn’t just the speed, but the calmness behind it. There’s no sudden lurch or over-eager throttle response; the power delivery is smooth, progressive and feels beautifully calibrated. This comes down to BMW’s new integrated control unit, the “Heart of Joy”, which manages all dynamic systems together: motors, torque distribution, traction control, regenerative and friction braking, and even steering assistance. Because these systems now communicate through a single controller, the car reacts faster and feels more cohesive than many EVs that juggle separate modules.

BMW isn’t trying to push any ‘self-driving’ claims here, and rightly so, as no carmaker has perfected it yet. Instead, the assistance features included are thoughtfully tuned to support the driver without getting in the way. If you’re paying attention, they work quietly and seamlessly in the background. The hands-free driving demo we showed in our review was excellent and the automated parking system is especially impressive: simple to engage, quick to operate, and remarkably precise.

Range and Charging

The Neue Klasse platform brings BMW’s sixth-generation battery technology, and the numbers are impressive. The iX3 xDrive50 uses a 108.7kWh usable NMC pack with brand-new cylindrical cells that store 20% more energy and charge 30% faster than the outgoing model’s battery.

The official WLTP range sits between 678–805km, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs on the market. Those numbers will vary depending on wheel size and spec, but even early test figures suggest excellent real-world efficiency.

BMW has also changed how the battery is integrated into the vehicle. Instead of sitting as a large block under the floor, the pack is now structurally embedded into the car’s frame. This reduces weight, improves stiffness, and frees up interior space, a true engineering upgrade rather than a simple battery refresh.

Charging is equally impressive thanks to an 800-volt architecture allowing up to 400kW DC charging, and delivering up to 372km od range in just 10 minutes of charging. That’s faster than many rivals, including several from Porsche and Kia. Even small touches feel forward-thinking, such as the charging flap automatically opening when you arrive at a charger, a feature the car learns using AI, and closing again once you unplug.

Design and Interior

BMW has taken a bold new design direction with the Neue Klasse generation, and the iX3 feels like its clearest expression yet. Much of the styling cues from the 2024 Vision Neue Klasse X concept have made it into the production model, including the sharp lines, revised light signature, and a more sculpted overall look. It’s clean, modern, and distinctly BMW without relying on oversized grilles or dramatic flourishes.

Inside, the transformation is even more striking. The traditional instrument cluster and the long-familiar iDrive rotary controller are gone, replaced with a minimalist cabin anchored by BMW’s new Panoramic Display, a wide, slim head up display unit positioned at the base of the windscreen, visible to both the driver and passengers. It displays speed, navigation prompts, and up to six configurable widgets across its length.

In the centre sits a new six-sided infotainment screen, angled for easier reach, and running BMW’s latest software with smoother animations and faster responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, alongside over 60 apps including streaming services, built-in conferencing tools, and video calling that automatically switches to audio once you start driving.

Practicality hasn’t been sacrificed. Boot space ranges from 520 litres to 1,750 litres with the seats folded flat, and there’s even a 58-litre front storage compartment, perfect for charge cables or muddy hiking gear. An electric tow bar can also be fitted, with towing capacity of up to 2,000kg, making the iX3 surprisingly versatile for family adventures.

Cost Considerations

BMW Ireland has confirmed that the iX3 xDrive50 will launch from: €73,925 on the road Irish deliveries are expected to begin in March 2026, with additional variants rolling out later that year and into 2027.

When you consider the range, charging speed, and advanced new platform, the pricing is more competitive than expected, and positions the iX3 directly against premium EV rivals such as the Audi Q6 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz GLC electric SUV.

Verdict

The BMW iX3 Neue Klasse feels like a genuine turning point for the brand. The performance is strong, the technology is impressive, and the efficiency numbers are bordering on game-changing. The improved ride quality and recalibrated regen make it nicer to drive every day, and the new interior design shows BMW is serious about redefining the modern electric cabin. Based on what we’ve experienced so far, the new iX3 has all the ingredients to be one of the standout EVs of 2026, and one of the most important BMWs in years.