BMW has officially unveiled the production version of the new BMW iX3, marking the beginning of a transformative new chapter for the German car manufacturer. This vehicle is much more than just a model update: it is the first production car to embody the brand's revolutionary Neue Klasse design and technology philosophy.
The term 'Neue Klasse' is a deliberate nod to BMW's history, recalling the 1960s models that saved the company from financial ruin. Today, BMW is approaching this new era with equal seriousness, promising a complete overhaul of its design identity, technology and electric vehicle architecture, beginning with this electric SUV.
Crucially, the new iX3 represents a significant departure from its predecessor. Unlike the previous model, which was adapted from the X3 with a combustion engine, the iX3 has been built from the ground up on a new, dedicated modular EV platform. This "clean-sheet" approach affects everything from the engineering to the final design, demonstrating a total commitment to an electric future.
The design language introduced on the iX3 is not just for electric models: it represents the new corporate identity that will eventually be adopted by all future BMWs. The front end marks a significant departure from recent trends. The iconic kidney grille remains, but it is now a vertically oriented, illuminated feature set within a sleek black panel housing sensors and lighting. This gives the vehicle a far calmer and more understated appearance.
This new ethos of 'visual calm' continues along the vehicle's flanks. The sides are notably cleaner, with fewer creases and lines than those of current BMW models. Large, frameless windows extend deep into the doors, and flush electronic door handles and an absence of chrome trim reinforce its modern, minimalist character.
