by Update: The official premiere of the new iX3 will take place in September at the Munich Motor Show, and BMW engineers are currently finalizing the last tweaks to the model. The development of the electric crossover has taken quite a long time, and in the new photos, the prototype already features production headlights and taillights.
One of the test vehicles that was captured was equipped with wheels similar to those installed on the BMW M3. It is not yet clear if these are standard alloy wheels or aerodynamic covers, but the more pronounced side sills and the massive front bumper suggest that this could be the sporty M50 version.
This more powerful iX3 variant will likely feature two electric motors and retain the M50 designation. In addition to an improved powertrain and a more aggressive exterior, it is expected to have a sport suspension with stiffer settings and special driving modes.
Earlier, photographers also captured a BMW iX3 Neue Klasse prototype shortly after it rolled off the assembly line. The all-electric model is currently undergoing final testing before the planned sales start at the end of 2025.
Although the overall silhouette of the BMW iX3 Neue Klasse was already known, early prototypes had temporary lighting units. The car now has production headlights and taillights installed, showcasing a modern LED design. This was the last unknown element, as the crossover’s body had already been revealed in patent drawings.
What about the front trunk?
The new prototype was also photographed with an open hood. Although the BMW iX3 does not seem to have a front trunk (frunk), as the space is currently occupied by powertrain components, this configuration might be a temporary solution for testing. The production version will most likely feature an additional storage compartment, like most modern electric vehicles.
Retractable door handles are also noticeable; they look less futuristic compared to the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. Apparently, a similar solution will be used on the larger iX5 as well.
The prototype’s wheels indicate that this is the base version of the BMW iX3. The wheel diameter of the production model will likely range from 18 to 22 inches depending on the trim. The largest wheels will be fitted to the powerful version from BMW’s M division.
Neue Klasse – The First Sign
The new iX3 will be the first production model with the Neue Klasse design, which will subsequently be implemented across the entire BMW lineup, including ICE models. Following the crossover, the launch of the i3 sedan, the new generation 3-Series, and X5/iX5 is expected in the coming years.
The Neue Klasse platform involves the use of lighter and more efficient electric motors. The iX3 will be offered with single- and dual-motor variants producing from 300 to 600 hp. The car will feature an 800-volt architecture for fast charging and the latest batteries with 20% higher energy density, which will increase the range by 30%. In the top version, the iX3 will be able to travel up to 800 km on a single charge.
Series production of the BMW iX3 on the Neue Klasse platform will begin in the second half of 2025.
