Content Team
The future of BMW is here. The German automaker has officially unveiled the second-generation iX3 electric SUV, and it’s a car of monumental importance. The new iX3 is not just an update; it is the first production model to be built on the revolutionary Neue Klasse (German for ‘New Class’) platform, signaling a new era of electrification, digitalization, and sustainability for the brand.
While the world is buzzing about its record-breaking specs, the most exciting news for Indian car buyers is that the iX3 is confirmed for the Indian market. It is expected to arrive as early as 2026, where it will directly challenge the likes of the Audi Q6 e-tron and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC EV.
Let’s dive into the details and find out why this isn’t just a new BMW, but a whole new class of EV.
What is BMW’s Neue Klasse Platform?
The ‘Neue Klasse’ is a clean-sheet, EV-only architecture. This means the car is built from the ground up to be electric, unlike many of BMW’s current EVs that share platforms with petrol and diesel models. This dedicated approach allows for unprecedented technological leaps.
Key innovations of the Neue Klasse platform:
- 800V Architecture: This high-voltage system is the key to the iX3’s astonishingly fast charging speeds.
- Sixth-Generation Cylindrical Batteries: These new batteries are 20-30% more energy-dense, offering a significant boost in range and efficiency while reducing production costs.
- Integrated ‘Superbrains’: Four high-performance computers integrate all vehicle functions, from driving dynamics to infotainment, into a single, seamless experience.
BMW iX3 India Launch, Price & Rivals
The new BMW iX3 is set to be a flagship model in India’s rapidly growing luxury EV segment. While official prices are yet to be announced, local assembly at BMW’s Chennai plant is expected, which could result in competitive pricing.
- India Launch Timeline: Early 2026
- Expected Price: ₹90 Lakh – ₹1 Crore (ex-showroom)
At this price point, the iX3 will directly compete with the recently launched Audi Q6 e-tron and the highly-anticipated electric version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Its advanced tech and efficiency put it in a prime position to disrupt the segment.
Record-Breaking Range and Ultra-Fast Charging
The iX3 is poised to be one of the longest-range EVs on the market. At launch, the car will be offered in the iX3 50 xDrive variant with an All-Wheel Drive dual-motor setup.
Key Performance & Battery Specs
| Feature | Specification |
| Battery (Net) | 108.7 kWh |
| WLTP Range | 679 km – 805 km |
| Combined Output | 469 hp / 645 Nm |
| 0-100 kph | 4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 210 kph |
The 800V architecture is a game-changer for charging. The iX3 can add up to 372 km of range in just 10 minutes at a compatible 400 kW DC fast-charging station. A full 10-80% charge can be completed in as little as 21 minutes, effectively eliminating range anxiety for long-distance travel.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
The new iX3 introduces a fresh design language that is both a nod to the past and a look into the future. It features an upright front end with a vertical kidney grille, inspired by the original Neue Klasse models from the 1960s. Its sleek, minimalist surfaces and flush-fitting door handles contribute to an incredibly low drag coefficient of just 0.24 Cd, which significantly boosts efficiency.
BMW iX3 Dimensions (in mm)
| Feature | Dimension |
| Length | 4,782 |
| Width | 1,895 |
| Height | 1,635 |
A Futuristic and Minimalist Interior
The cabin of the iX3 is a major step forward in human-machine interface. The traditional instrument cluster is gone, replaced by the groundbreaking “Panoramic Vision” system, which projects information like speed, range, and navigation across the full width of the windscreen.
The central hub is a large 17.9-inch touchscreen running the new BMW Operating System X. While the screen controls most functions, BMW has kept key physical buttons on the new steering wheel for essential controls, a welcome feature for many drivers. The car also features sustainable materials, ample space for five occupants, and a generous 520-litre boot, expandable to 1,750 litres. An additional 58-litre frunk (front trunk) provides extra storage.
CarDekho’s Takeaway
The new BMW iX3 is a statement. With a class-leading range of up to 805 km, hyper-fast charging, and a futuristic cabin, it promises to be a technological powerhouse. Its arrival in India in early 2026, potentially with local assembly, means it will be a fierce competitor in the luxury EV market. The iX3 is not just an upgrade; it’s the beginning of a new chapter for BMW, and it’s set to change the game for good.
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