BMW Releases Full Details on 2026 BMW iX3
BMW has finally unveiled the first production model in its highly anticipated Neue Klasse family of vehicles, which promises to revolutionize the Bavarian manufacturer's lineup in terms of technology, while retaining the core values of driving pleasure and design on which the brand was founded. Without surprise, it is an SUV that is taking the lead what we can safely call a small revolution within BMW’s catalogue.
In fact, we were able to drive a prototype version of this SUV a few months ago. But today, details about the production model have been revealed.
- Also: Upcoming BMW i3 Teased Alongside Brand New iX3 Crossover
- Also: BMW iX3 50 xDrive: We Drove the First Neue Klasse Prototype!
Introducing the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive, a compact electric SUV measuring 4,792 mm long and 1,895 mm wide, featuring a design reminiscent of older models from the 1960s and 1970s, but with modern features such as an illuminated kidney grille. And despite being true to BMW’s design language, the iX3 50 xDrive has a drag coefficient of just 0.24.
Power, Range and Charging
The 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive is equipped with two sixth-generation electric motors that produce a combined output of 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. This allows the SUV to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 129 mph. According to the manufacturer, this latest generation of electric motors reduces energy losses by 40% compared to 5th generation BMW eDrive technology, in addition to reducing weight by 10%. These encouraging statistics will inevitably have a positive impact on range.
Speaking of range, all this hardware is based on an 800-volt architecture, with a battery capacity of 108 kWh that promises a range of 643 km, according to preliminary BMW in-house testing conducted in accordance with EPA standards.
When it comes to charging, the new iX3 is reassuring with a maximum capacity of up to 400 kW—a figure that blows away other manufacturers currently selling electric vehicles in Canada. On paper, the charge level could go from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. Of course, all this is under ideal conditions, with the right charging station and a perfectly preconditioned battery.
In an effort to break away from the stereotype of electric vehicles being boring to drive, BMW has developed the “Heart of Joy,” a super brain that controls a series of modules designed to optimize communication with the driver. These modules constantly adjust engine thrust, torque distribution, braking and active chassis components to provide a superior driving experience worthy of a BMW.
The New BMW Interior
Digital technology inevitably reigns supreme in the interior. The dashboard features a 17.9-inch central screen in the shape of a parallelogram. This is supported by a panoramic projection that extends horizontally between the two A-pillars at the bottom of the windshield. This feature, called BMW Panoramic iDrive, displays information from the central screen at the bottom of the windshield so that the driver can view it without taking their eyes off the road. The tiles displayed on this screen can be easily changed by the driver via the central display. BMW has stated that this technology will gradually be rolled out across its model range.
In terms of cargo, the iX3 can provide up to 1,750 litres of space with the second-row seats folded down. In normal configuration, there is 520 litres of trunk space, in addition to 58 litres in the frunk.
The 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive will arrive in Canada in early summer 2026. Its base price is expected to be around $80,000.
