On September 5th, BMW Group officially unveiled the new generation BMW iX3 at a global debut event in Munich. The new model is the first production vehicle from BMW’s next-generation electrification strategy, developed based on the new intelligent electronic and electrical architecture. The exterior design closely follows the style of the Vision Neue Klasse X concept car and will be locally produced in China. According to the plan, the overseas version will begin production and deliveries in Europe by the end of this year, while the version specifically designed for Chinese customers will be officially unveiled later this year and will be locally produced in 2026.
In terms of appearance, as the first new-generation production model, the iX3 adopts an entirely new design concept. The front design is inspired by the BMW 1500 model, featuring vertically aligned, illuminated kidney grilles, angel-eye headlights, and Hofmeister kink design elements. The headlamp and grille create an integrated visual effect, and the LED daytime running lights on both sides are designed with a vertical double-arrow shape, which BMW refers to as the “Angel Wings” front end. When illuminated, it offers a distinctive and recognizable look. The exaggerated front bumper design also enhances the vehicle’s visual impact, giving it a sporty and dynamic appearance.
On the side, the new model avoids overly complex lines, presenting a clean and simple look. The front and rear wheel arches slightly expand outward, creating a strong sense of power. The hidden door handles and large-sized wheels create a visually striking effect. In terms of dimensions, the overseas version measures 4,780mm in length, 1,895mm in width, and 1,635mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,895mm, positioning it as a mid-size SUV. It is expected that the domestic version will be slightly longer, with a 100mm extended wheelbase, and will be equipped with exclusive rear seats for a more comfortable rear passenger space.
At the rear, the new model adopts a split taillight design rather than the popular full-width taillight layout. The taillight group features vertical strip-type light bars, with the central area housing the brand’s logo, making it highly recognizable at night. The rear bumper is equipped with a large spoiler and a racing-inspired diffuser design, which enhances the sporty vibe.
Inside the car, the most eye-catching feature is the BMW’s innovative panoramic iDrive system. The driver can receive corresponding information from the 3D head-up display, the horizon-level panoramic display, and the central control screen in sequence. The central control screen adopts an unconventional design, and the car’s system uses the new-generation X operating system. The new infotainment system will be supported by a panoramic imaging system located above the windshield. Additionally, depending on the version, two styles of steering wheels will be available, with the vertical bar steering wheel making its debut in BMW products, adding a strong sense of technology.
In terms of power, the official release states that the domestically produced new-generation BMW iX3 will feature a revolutionary large cylindrical battery and a new 800V high-voltage platform, enabling a charging speed that adds over 400 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes and a CLTC range of over 900 kilometers. The chassis and suspension systems will also be specially tuned and optimized. The iX3 50 xDrive, which was showcased, uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, with a maximum output of 345kW and a peak torque of 645Nm.
Analyzing the positioning of the new vehicle, as the first production model built on BMW’s new generation platform (Neue Klasse) and a major step in BMW’s intelligent transformation, the new-generation BMW iX3 domestically produced version is expected to compete with models such as the Audi Q6L e-tron, Li Auto i6, Xiaomi YU7, and Aion M7. However, information about the domestically produced version is still limited, and we will continue to monitor its developments. It is also reported that from 2026 to 2027, BMW Group plans to launch over 20 new BMW models in the Chinese market.
