I have the remarkable opportunity to test new electric vehicles before they hit the market, diving into prototypes that promise extended range and rapid charging capabilities. These experiences allow me to explore cutting-edge technology and driving mechanics, but they often focus heavily on performance metrics. However, there’s more to a vehicle than just numbers; real-world usability matters just as much.
Take the upcoming BMW iX3, for instance, the first of its kind built on the groundbreaking Neue Klasse platform. This is a significant step for BMW, which has typically built its electric vehicles on existing combustion platforms. The iX3 signifies a fresh chapter, aiming to incorporate the lessons learned from electrics like the iX and i3 while elevating the entire driving experience.
Charging is a highlight of the iX3, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle. I was fortunate enough to experience this innovation firsthand during a test drive in Miramas, France, courtesy of BMW, who arranged my travel and lodging for the event.
Introducing the 2026 BMW iX3: What’s New?
For those who may not be up-to-date, the Neue Klasse (“New Class” in German) represents a completely fresh EV platform. While previous models like the i4 and i5 were adaptations of gas-powered frameworks, the iX3 marks the beginning of a new era. It features advanced motors, larger batteries, and an array of innovative software-defined systems that collectively differentiate it from previous BMW electric vehicles.
The iX3 sports new Gen6 batteries, expected to provide around 100 kWh of capacity—enough for roughly 400 miles on the EPA cycle. This translates to an impressive efficiency rate of around 4 miles per kWh for this compact SUV, surpassing the current champion of range within BMW’s lineup.
Under the hood, you’ll find dual motors generating a combined 400 horsepower. However, the real jewel of the iX3 is its integrated, software-driven platform, dubbed Heart of Joy. This new approach simplifies the array of controls within the vehicle, allowing all parts—including regenerative and physical brakes—to communicate seamlessly. It’s a step beyond what we’ve seen in existing models, leading to a more cohesive driving experience.
This unified system results in a vehicle that feels exceptionally smooth, whether easing away from a stop sign or navigating a tight turn on a slick track. Smooth feedback is crucial, especially in an electric SUV where drivers often seek a connection to the road.
Rapid Charging Capabilities
Charging is where the iX3 truly shines. Officially rated for a maximum charging speed of 400 kW, BMW claims this allows drivers to gain over 200 miles of range in just 10 minutes. I witnessed this in action, with a pre-production iX3 hitting an impressive peak of 403 kW during a test—effectively adding over 217 miles of range in a mere 10 minutes. It didn’t maintain that peak for long, but even averaging 318 kW is considerable, outpacing many new EVs currently available.
The Art of Slowing Down
One standout feature of the iX3 is its braking system, which allows it to come to a stop in a remarkably smooth manner. The enhanced integration means that you can rely on regenerative braking almost exclusively, creating a driving experience that feels seamless. Close your eyes while braking, and you could hardly tell when the vehicle has completely stopped—an absolute relief for those sensitive to abrupt halts in other electric vehicles.
The iX3 also offers varying levels of regenerative braking, allowing drivers to fine-tune their experience and cater to passenger comfort—a thoughtful touch for families or friends who may have different tolerances for “one-pedal” driving.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the iX3?
While the iX3 prototype impresses, a few questions remain unanswered. For starters, it’s challenging to predict the final design beneath the camouflaged exterior, though glimpses suggest it bears a strong likeness to the Vision Neue Klasse X concept, and BMW tends to stay true to its concepts in production.
Pricing is another critical factor. While the iX3 is positioned to be less expensive than the $75,000 starting price of the current iX, it still aims to compete with the X3 SUV, which starts around $50,000. This pricing puzzle will largely determine its market appeal, especially if it can offer exceptional range, tech, and performance, drawing in consumers who may be on the fence about switching to electric.
In an era when many people are looking at electric vehicles with skepticism, the iX3 represents a bridge—one that could change perceptions if it’s priced accessibly. It has the potential not just to perform well but also to connect with the everyday driver looking for reliability and innovation.
Tim Stevens, a seasoned editor and industry analyst, brings years of experience to the automotive tech scene. Having spent nearly a decade leading CNET’s automotive coverage, he has a wealth of knowledge in this field. Prior to that, Tim served as Editor-in-Chief at Engadget and possesses a background in enterprise software. You can follow Tim on X at @tim_stevens and delve into his insights on his Substack.
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