BMW iX3 review

SUV has all-new platform, drivetrain, battery and digital interface. The brand's electric reboot starts here, writes Matt Prior

- Matt Prior

You will read a lot about how the new BMW iX3 is the first of a whole new generation of BMWs; how significant the company thinks its Neue Klasse ('new class') platform is; and how this is its first software-defined car.

The R&D boss even called it a "masterpiece", which I think is slightly overblowing a mass-market electric SUV. But the new platform will underpin at least six new EVs by 2028, including an electric 3 Series (to be called the i3), so this is isn't an unimportant car.

But beyond all the hype, just know that, first and foremost, the iX3 is a BMW that drives very well in the traditional BMW style, as we will see.

As I write, prices start at £58,755 (2,508,333 baht) and deliveries will start in March 2026.

WHAT'S IT LIKE?

To the neue bits first, then. While most electric BMWs sit on platforms shared with their combustion-engined stablemates, the iX3, upcoming i3 and others will have this bespoke EV one, because their higher sales volumes make it worth developing them that way, even while outwardly similar ICE cars will stay on sale alongside them.

The iX3's battery pack isn't just under the chassis: the top of the 108.7kWh (usable) pack, which has cylindrical cells and is said to be 20% more energy-dense than BMW's previous one, constitutes the cabin floor and is a structural part of things. It gives a WLTP range of 500 miles and, thanks to an 800V electrical system, can be rapid-charged at up to 400kW.

On top is a tautly styled body and what I think is a cute upright kidney grille. Given the size and shape some recent BMW noses, I think this has an attractive face.

The iX3 is 4.78m long, so around 3 Series length, and while it looks like an SUV, at 1.64m high you could think of it as a tall estate.