This isn’t just another electric crossover — it’s the first production model built on BMW’s long-awaited “Neue Klasse” platform, the foundation for nearly every electric BMW in the coming years. And crucially, you feel it behind the wheel, not just in the press releases.
Range That Changes the Way You Drive
The dashboard confidently shows numbers that used to raise eyebrows: around 416 miles of real-world range and close to 560 miles in the most efficient mode. Even if you’re not chasing maximum efficiency, the iX3 frees you from constant range anxiety.
The key lies in a usable 109 kWh battery and ultra-fast charging capability up to 400 kW. That translates to short, predictable stops on long trips — a genuine game-changer for highway driving.
A Lot of Car for the Money
The expected starting price for the iX3 50 xDrive in the U.S. is in the $85,000–$95,000 range (approximate market price for the United States). It sounds substantial, but when you break it down, you’re getting powerful all-wheel drive, a huge battery, and a very generously equipped base model. The options list is long as always, but even in standard form the car feels anything but stripped out.
Dynamics You Don’t Expect From 5,000 Pounds
All-wheel drive and a combined output of around 470 hp do the job brilliantly. 0-60 mph arrives in under 5 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. More importantly, the iX3 never feels its weight. It turns eagerly, stays composed, and remains unflappable even when driven enthusiastically.
Comfort is excellent too: the suspension smooths out rough roads, cabin noise is minimal, and only at higher speeds do you notice a faint whisper of wind.
Interior and the New Panoramic iDrive
Inside, there’s plenty of space and a premium feel throughout. Trunk capacity is 18.4 cubic feet, expanding to 61.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. A 2-cubic-foot frunk up front is perfect for stowing charging cables.
The interior highlight is the new Panoramic iDrive. A slim display stretches almost the full width of the windshield, showing essential information right in the driver’s line of sight. It responds to gestures and, paired with the head-up display, keeps your eyes on the road.
Nearly Hands-Free — and It Actually Works
On the highway, the iX3 can drive itself: holding lane, changing lanes, and adapting to traffic flow. You can take your hands off the wheel, but the system monitors your eyes closely. Look away too long and it firmly reminds you to take control again. It all works remarkably smoothly with no jerky movements.
The BMW iX3 feels like a mature, fully realized product rather than an experiment. If the Neue Klasse continues in this direction, the brand has every reason to impress the market — and pleasantly, without unnecessary hype.
