iX3 втілює майбутнє BMW Neue Klasse вже сьогодні

BMW has entered its Neue Klasse chapter with the world premiere of the second-generation iX3. More than just another electric SUV, this model sets the stage for the brand’s future with a new design language, a purpose-built EV platform, and four high-powered computers BMW calls its “superbrains.”The first version to reach showrooms will be the iX3 50 xDrive in mid-2026. It delivers 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) from dual motors, offers an impressive EPA-estimated 400-mile range (644 km), and carries a starting price of about $60,000. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out.A New Era Of BMW DesignThe production iX3 remains faithful to the Vision Neue Klasse X concept from 2024, incorporating the brand’s new styling direction that will be eventually applied across its entire lineup, including ICE and EV models.“The design of the Neue Klasse provides a very modern interpretation of what BMW has always stood for,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. “With our new design language, the new BMW iX3 looks future-focused, modern, and timeless – but, above all, more BMW than ever.”More: BMW Is Planning A Rugged G-Class Rival That May Kill The XMAt the front, the vertical kidney grille and twin headlight setup of the new iX3 take cues from classic BMWs such as the 2002 Series, reinterpreted here with a modern, futuristic twist. They’re paired with sculpted intakes and glossy black bumper accents, which stand in for the plastic cladding typically seen on SUVs and crossovers.The profile is defined by rectangular contours and crisp character lines that underscore its athletic stance. Yet apart from the signature Hofmeister kink, it may be the least traditionally BMW aspect of the design.At the rear, horizontally arranged taillights are divided by a recessed section that echoes the shape of the roof spoiler. Aerodynamic refinements have reduced the drag coefficient to 0.24, a notable improvement over the previous iX3’s 0.29.For buyers looking for a sharper edge, the optional M Sport package brings a restyled body kit and alloy wheels in 20, 21, or 22 inches, paired with blue brake calipers. Those who choose the M Sport Professional package get an illuminated grille, black trim details, and red calipers.The new iX3 measures 188.3 inches (4,783 mm) long, 74.6 inches (1,895 mm) wide, and 64.4 inches (1,636 mm) tall with a 114.1-inch (2.898 mm) wheelbase. This means it is 1.9 inches (49 mm) longer compared to its predecessor, with an extra 1.3 inches (34 mm) between the axles. Futuristic InteriorThe interior’s focal point is BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive, a sweeping pillar-to-pillar display integrated along the base of the windshield. It works in tandem with a 17.9-inch central screen and an optional 3D head-up display, all powered by the latest BMW Operating System X, which promises a cleaner and more intuitive interface. For longtime BMW drivers, it’s a dramatic departure from both the brand’s current layouts and the more driver-centric dashboards of the past.More: BMW’s Panoramic iDrive Brings Pillar-To-Pillar Display To Future Models, Eliminates KnobWhile the climate controls are integrated into the touchscreen, BMW designers kept physical controls for the essentials such as wipers, indicators, mirrors, volume, gear selection, and the parking brake. Additional buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the voice-activated BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are designed to cut down on distractions, though how well this works in practice remains to be seen.Optional features include a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, the panoramic moonroof, and a three-zone auto climate control. The EV also introduces new driving sounds and sound effects from the BMW HypersonX soundscape.BMW highlights the roomy five-seat layout of the iX3, made possible by the smart packaging of its EV-dedicated platform. Cargo space is generous, with 30.4 cubic feet (861 liters) available in the rear, expanding to 65 cubic feet (1,841 liters) when the back seats are folded. A small 2 cubic-foot (57-liter) frunk adds extra practicality, complemented by multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin.Smarter Than Your Average EVThe Neue Klasse iX3 is equipped with four high-performance computers called “superbrains”, which are part of the vehicle’s “digital nervous system”. Each unit controls the driving dynamics, automated driving systems, infotainment, and basic functions. For example, the “Heart of Joy” superbrain is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering, making sure that the driver always gets the best out of them.More: BMW iX3 Gets Four Superbrains For Ultimate Tech OverloadAnother unit is dedicated to the automated driving and parking functions. Speaking of which, the standard Active Driving Assistant Plus is a complete suite of ADAS, while the optional Highway Assistant allows hands-off driving for prolonged periods of time. Furthermore, the “BMW Symbiotic Drive” means that the driver inputs can merge seamlessly with the autonomous systems without disengaging them.According to BMW, the iX3 is a software-defined vehicle, meaning it will keep improving throughout its lifecycle with over-the-air updates.Platform And PerformanceThe new iX3 is the first production model to ride on the Neue Klasse platform that will eventually underpin all electric BMWs. This 800-volt architecture introduces the sixth-generation eDrive system, pairing newly developed electric motors with high-density cylindrical battery cells. It also integrates the “Heart of Joy” driving dynamics system along with advanced autonomous driving functions.More: BMW M Knows You Don’t Like EVs But They’re Making Them AnywayThe launch version, the iX3 50 xDrive, uses dual electric motors with all-wheel drive, delivering a combined 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) of torque. That output propels the SUV from 0 to 60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed capped at 130 mph (209 km/h). Drivers can choose between Sport, Efficient, Silent, and Personal modes to tailor the experience.Range And ChargingThe company hasn’t specified battery capacity, but the 400-mile (644 km) EPA figure, likely even higher under WLTC testing, speaks volumes. Thanks to 400 kW DC fast charging, the iX3 can gain 230 miles (370 km) of range in just 10 minutes, or recharge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. The model supports bi-directional charging and features a NACS port with CCS adapter. A sensor-based flap even opens and closes automatically.The all-wheel-drive 50 xDrive will be just the beginning. A rear-drive, single-motor version is already in the pipeline, and it’s only a matter of time before BMW M puts its stamp on a high-performance iX3.Pricing And AvailabilityBMW expects the iX3 50 xDrive to reach US dealerships in summer 2026 with a starting price of “around $60,000”. That figure undercuts the similarly sized X3 M50 xDrive, powered by a six-cylinder gasoline engine, by roughly $6,000. Pricing should also line up closely with Tesla’s upcoming Model Y Performance, which is projected to come in roughly $10,000 above the $48,990 Long Range AWD.In the premium electric SUV segment, the iX3 will go up against the Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan EV, and upcoming entries like the Mercedes GLC EV and Volvo EX60.Production for US models will begin in the first quarter of 2026 at BMW’s new plant in Debrecen, Hungary.More To ComeThe Neue Klasse strategy is far bigger than a single model. By 2027, BMW expects nearly 40 new or refreshed vehicles to adopt its technology, from sedans to SUVs. The next Neue Klasse debut will be a four-door sedan positioned as the electric counterpart to the 3-Series.As BMW CEO Oliver Zipse put it, this platform represents a “huge leap” in design, technology, and driving experience. For the company, the iX3 is only the beginning.