The BMW iX3, also known as the EX3, is the first production model built on BMW’s new Neue Klasse electric architecture for 2026. For now, it comes as a family-focused electric SUV, but the platform will also later underpin the i3 sedan and high-performance M variant. Priced at around £60,000(₹ 72,28,584 In Indian rupees), the iX3 will go on sale in the UK in March 2026, and will come to India later.
Under the skin, the iX3 50 version is equipped with a rear-biased AWD setup powered by a 108 kWh battery and two electric motors that deliver a combined 462 bhp. As expected in a modern EV, the battery pack sits under the floor, and the car is capable of charging at up to 400 kW using an 800-volt electric architecture. BMW claims that provides a driving range of up to 500 km.
BMW iX3 of Interior & Design
Inside you’ll find a dramatically new cabin layout that BMW describes as software-defined. In reality, it’s still a traditional family SUV with five seats and a practical boot, but the user experience has been heavily modernised.
The driving position is low and comfortable, but the steering wheel isn’t as high as you might expect, giving it a slightly Peugeot i-Cockpit-like feel. The star of the interior is a large panoramic digital instrument panel located at the base of the windscreen. It displays speed, battery status and configured driving information. Because the display is projected from a distance, focusing on it feels more natural, almost like a heads-up display. BMW does offer a HUD, but this panel feels redundant.
A large central touchscreen is available on the dashboard, replacing many physical buttons. BMW has moved almost every basic function to the touchscreen, including HVAC controls and air-vent direction. While seat functions and massage settings make sense digitally, basic ventilation adjustments may seem less practical. For everyday use, this screen-heavy layout may frustrate drivers who prefer physical controls.
Still, the cabin feels spacious, the rear seats are comfortable, and the boot space is practical. It checks all the family-car boxes, even if some ergonomic choices divide opinion.
Driving Experience : Surprisingly Engaging
While it’s unlikely that any buyer will take the iX3 to a track day, BMW did show off its high-speed handling on a closed circuit. In Sport mode, the car unlocks its full power and enables enhanced synthetic driving sounds.
Despite its weight, the iX3 accelerates quickly and feels composed when pushed. The steering gains a little extra weight in Sport mode, though the “feel” is still limited. The SUV turns in understeer smoothly and gently, behavior expected for this type of vehicle. The stability control system keeps things in check, but turning it off requires navigating multiple menus to dive deep into the settings.
What stands out is the simple but well-tuned mechanical setup:
- Struts up front
- Multilink suspension at the rear
- Passive dampers
- Standard coil springs
- No adaptive anti-roll bars or air suspension
BMW has deliberately chosen a straight layout to keep costs down and avoid the energy drain of active systems. The result is a surprisingly old-school BMW approach, focused on the basics rather than overloaded technology.
The car manages to strike a strong balance between ride comfort and body control. The low centre of gravity from the battery helps it feel balanced and stable. BMW engineers suggest that the 20-inch wheels provide the best balance for UK roads.
Regenerative braking is another highlight. The iX3 can stop so easily that passengers won’t even notice when the car has stopped. It mainly uses the rear motor for controlled deceleration, preventing nose-diving, a thoughtful touch that makes the EV exceptionally refined in everyday driving.
