BMW is ushering in a bold new era with the iX3, the first electric SUV built on its all-new Neue Klasse architecture. This isn’t a simple adaptation of an internal-combustion vehicle; it’s a purpose‑designed EV built from the ground up, equipped with cutting-edge tech, superior range, and premium driving refinement.
Smarter Than Ever: “Superbrains” and Eye‑Tracking
At the heart of the iX3’s smartest features is BMW’s “superbrain,” a powerful central computer powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Ride chip. It flawlessly integrates data from improved sensors, cameras, and radar systems. One standout feature is eye-tracking technology: when a driver glances at the side mirror, the car recognizes the intent and automatically initiates a lane change—complete with signaling. If the driver forgets to check their blind spot, the vehicle can even resist unsafe lane changes unless it’s confident the coast is clear.
Heart of Joy: Unified Handling
BMW also introduces a novel “Heart of Joy” computing module that consolidates traction control, stability systems, and electric motor management into a single processor The result? Exceptionally smooth transitions and regenerative braking—so refined that stopping from speed is nearly imperceptible. Test drivers describe this as a genuine “joy of stopping,” removing jerky deceleration for effortless halts at city lights and roundabouts.
Charging Milestone and Transport Range
Built on a newly engineered battery platform, the iX3 claims around 400 miles of range and supports up to 400 kW fast charging, enabling up to 200 miles of range in just ten minutes. In real-world pit‑stop sessions, testers recorded average rates of 318 kW, peaking beyond 400 kW—far outperforming many EVs currently available
Driving Pleasure Retained
Despite its tech-heavy setup, the iX3 feels like quintessential BMW behind the wheel. With all-wheel drive and approximately 400 horsepower, the SUV delivers sharp, composed handling through corners, neutral balance, and robust grip—even in wet conditions . The steering offers natural feedback, and the ride combines compliance with confidence, sticking to corners like a sporty sedan—not a bloated crossover .
High-Tech Cockpit
Inside, the iX3 features BMW’s all-new Panoramic Vision display—a sleek, full-width digital screen that stretches across the dashboard, offering a futuristic, driver-focused interface with seamless integration of essential controls and information. The minimalist layout, free of physical buttons, runs on the upcoming iDrive X OS, creating a sleek, intuitive interface.
Final Thoughts
BMW’s iX3 prototype isn’t just another electric SUV—it’s a flagship that showcases what the Neue Klasse is truly capable of: intelligent driver interaction, groundbreaking charging speeds, refined ride quality, and elegant digital design. If this prototype translates into production, it could become a benchmark in the premium EV crossover segment—and a convincing gateway for BMW’s combustion‑engine loyalists to enter the electric age.
Eagerly awaiting its formal unveiling this September, the iX3 promises to be BMW’s EV revolution—not just in function, but in emotional delight.
