Final week, I traveled to Miramas, France, to expertise firsthand the electrical way forward for BMW. For the reason that dramatic reveal of the BMW i Imaginative and prescient Dee in 2023, BMW has persistently teased us with glimpses of their “new” Neue Klasse household. Following a number of prototypes just like the BMW Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse and Imaginative and prescient X Neue Klasse, expectations had grown tremendously. Now, lastly, it was time to see whether or not the Neue Klasse electrical autos would actually dwell as much as their hype.
The chosen testing venue added one other layer of intrigue: BMW’s secretive, closely guarded Miramas facility in southern France. Sometimes reserved for confidential testing, Miramas hosts rigorous testing packages for BMW Group’s whole future product lineup, together with bikes. Gaining entry typically feels just like accessing a high-security navy base, full with pre-clearance protocols, exhaustive paperwork, and obligatory taping over of all cellphone cameras—and even the lenses on Ray-Ban Meta glasses.
Previewing the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive: Design in Disguise
As soon as inside, a fastidiously structured day stuffed with hands-on testing awaited me. The star attraction was the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive (codename NA5), an essential mannequin amongst BMW’s formidable lineup of next-generation electrical autos. Whereas closely camouflaged and coated with plastic panels to hide its precise design and nice particulars, even these early prototypes unmistakably confirmed BMW’s new design language. The front-end is characteristic a brand new kidney grille product of LED lights, together with new headlights and taillights that look nothing just like the BMWs immediately. The general form is strictly what we noticed on the Idea Imaginative and prescient X with a extra coupeish roofline that on the G45 X3 and shorter bonnet than ordinary since there isn’t a engine on the entrance.
https://youtu.be/AuJFOEj519I?si=JFa10gSq2oWwGjgb
A Radical New Inside: iDrive X, Panoramic Show, and Digital Minimalism
The inside cabin different throughout autos, reflecting totally different phases of growth and underscoring that ultimate manufacturing trims and supplies have been nonetheless in flux. However entering into the iX3’s cabin instantly revealed important modifications and tech improvements. Prominently positioned within the middle of the dashboard was a redesigned 17.9-inch infotainment show, completely positioned for higher ergonomics when reaching the display screen.
Complementing this was the brand new Panoramic Show spanning the complete dashboard, paired with a redesigned high-fidelity Head-Up Show. I examined two distinct steering wheel designs additionally: one with spokes at conventional 3 and 9 o’clock positions (with smaller extra spokes at 5 and seven), and one other with unconventional 6 and 12 o’clock spokes—a structure beforehand prevented as a result of issues about instrument visibility.
Conventional controls just like the acquainted iDrive controller and equipment shifter are gone, changed by minimalist interfaces echoing current BMW inside design philosophy. Should you assume we don’t have quite a lot of buttons immediately, then you definitely’re in for a shock with Neue Klasse; even local weather and air flow settings had migrated fully into the brand new digital iDrive X interface. Door panel controls remained acquainted, whereas seat adjustment capabilities resembled these within the BMW iX. A big panoramic glass roof stretching from entrance to again enhances the cabin’s openness, though it gave the impression to be non-opening.
Total, BMW had adopted a refreshingly minimalist and futuristic design language which stays to be seen how will probably be considered by prospects and followers of the model.
Driving Into the Future: The Silent Begin and Simplified Driving Modes
A shocking omission was the standard Begin/Cease button, changed by a considerably intuitive sequence: shut the door, fasten the seatbelt, press the brake pedal, and the automobile silently awakens. Simplified into two core choices, Consolation and Dynamic, the driving modes supplied in depth customization, together with adjustable steering suggestions, drivetrain responsiveness, brake regeneration energy, and even seat backrest firmness and aspect bolster assist.
The agenda was complete and difficult, designed to completely consider the driving dynamics of the BMW iX3 (NA5). I tackled the whole lot from high-speed circuit testing to scenic but demanding drives on winding mountain roads round Miramas, an space famend for picturesque landscapes dotted with vineyards and rustic villages.
BMW had extra plans for me past driving dynamics evaluations: showcasing new developments of their Superior Driver Help Methods (ADAS)—nonetheless Stage 2+ however enhanced—and internet hosting a technical workshop on their 800V charging infrastructure. To spherical out my expertise, I acquired a primary have a look at BMW’s new iDrive X infotainment system, that includes the expansive Panoramic Show.
Extra Than 400 Horsepower
Turning to the specs—nonetheless preliminary and presumably topic to minor changes—the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive delivers over 300 kW (roughly 402 horsepower) and greater than 600 Nm of torque distributed seamlessly throughout each axles. The burden distribution is 49-50 entrance/rear.
BMW distinguishes itself from some opponents that rely completely on everlasting magnet synchronous motors (PSMs), which rely closely on rare-earth supplies. As a substitute, the Neue Klasse fashions employs a hybrid configuration: externally excited synchronous motors (EESMs) on the rear axle paired strategically with asynchronous motors (ASMs) upfront, considerably decreasing their reliance on rare-earth components.
Meet the “Coronary heart of Pleasure”: BMW’s Sport-Altering Automobile Supercomputer
On the coronary heart of this pioneering know-how is BMW’s intriguingly named “Coronary heart of Pleasure.” This superior, in-house-engineered superchip is designed not solely to dramatically remodel the driving dynamics of BMW’s future electrical fleet but in addition to uphold the cherished BMW ethos of being the “Final Driving Machine,” encapsulated of their legendary slogan, “Freude am Fahren” (Sheer Driving Pleasure). As a enjoyable truth, this slogan debuted in 1964, alongside the unique Neue Klasse fashions that essentially reshaped the corporate’s future.
Dealing with Course At Excessive Speeds
My testing started on a well-recognized but difficult dealing with course that includes various street surfaces—together with moist tracks to simulate slippery situations. Initially unfamiliar with the automobile’s exact conduct, the primary laps across the dealing with course started cautiously. Virtually instantly, nonetheless, I observed a major distinction in comparison with earlier BMW electrical automobile experiences. The Coronary heart of Pleasure delivered an impressively refined driving expertise—seamlessly clean from standstill to acceleration, with out the jolts or roughness generally related to electrical drivetrains. It was a sensation troublesome to correctly describe in phrases: the supercomputer’s capability to course of huge quantities of sensory knowledge ten instances quicker than earlier methods translated instantly into spectacularly clean dealing with and complex vitality recuperation.
Put merely, the Coronary heart of Pleasure integrates historically separate automobile dynamics methods into one highly effective central computing unit, coordinating acceleration, braking, steering, and vitality regeneration seamlessly. Algorithms finely management every perform, decreasing response instances and latency whereas considerably enhancing vitality effectivity and driving precision. BMW’s proprietary Dynamic Efficiency Management software program orchestrates this technological concord.
Regenerative Braking Refined: Easy Stops and Electrical Effectivity
Throughout onerous braking into corners, regenerative braking power is distributed throughout each axles. What you study rapidly is that even aggressive throttle inputs on nook exit delivers distinctive traction. Even throughout abrupt evasive maneuvers, the clever system repeatedly balanced energy and braking amongst particular person wheels, making certain impeccable automobile stability and confidence-inspiring management.
This refined synergy resulted in a remarkably pure and intuitive driving expertise, one BMW aptly describes—and I genuinely felt—as “easy.” The iX3 dealt with elegantly, feeling lighter, extra agile, and markedly extra composed than any earlier electrical BMW examined. After solely transient familiarization, cornering speeds comfortably exceeded 130 km/h, the iX3 constantly demonstrating astonishing grip, distinctive wheel management, and clean, progressive acceleration—free from the abruptness typically attribute of performance-focused EVs.
Braking dynamics equally impressed: roughly 90 % of braking relied on electrical motor regeneration, seamlessly complemented by hydraulic brakes when mandatory. BMW emphasised that regenerative braking may increase general effectivity by as much as 25 %.
The brakes themselves supplied a completely new expertise in EV braking refinement. Whether or not at excessive speeds, low speeds, or steep inclines, the braking system delivered clean deceleration that was so impeccably balanced I often examined it with eyes closed to determine if the automobile really stopped. The transitions have been that clean. Such refinement considerably enhances consolation and driving enjoyment, particularly in city stop-and-go eventualities.
Moreover, at various speeds, together with down steep gradients and thru cornering eventualities, the iX3’s capability to decelerate with out breaking a sweat was a standout. In city situations or stop-and-go site visitors, this degree of refinement may considerably cut back passenger fatigue and discomfort. Even when testing the automobile’s conduct on 12% and 20% gradients, each uphill and downhill, the braking remained equally clean. That is particularly priceless for lengthy commutes or household journeys, the place repeated begins and stops are a part of the routine.
Grip, Stability, and Seamless Management
The general driving dynamics went past my already-high expectations. Over the previous 12 months, BMW has thrown loads of advertising buzzwords at me—guarantees of emotional connection, dynamic agility, seamless integration—however I’ll admit, I took most of them with a grain of salt.
I used to be incorrect.
The brand new 2026 BMW iX3 (NA5) delivered on practically each declare. Physique roll was practically nonexistent. Cornering grip made the automobile really feel extra like a well-sorted rear-wheel-drive sport sedan than an electrical crossover. Exiting corners was drama-free, fast, and totally confidence-inspiring. There was no understeer to talk of—only a automobile that intuitively adopted the course of the steering with athletic precision.
A Model-New Steering Utility
Talking of steering, it’s a significant leap ahead for BMW’s electrical portfolio. Though the platform shares some geometry with the G45 X3, the engineering philosophy behind it’s solely totally different. BMW’s engineers targeted on offering extra pure suggestions from the street whereas fastidiously avoiding the bogus really feel that may include amped-up electrical help. In Dynamic mode, the steering felt significantly sharp and communicative. I may really feel delicate street textures and the chunk of the entrance tires. This EPS setup—primarily an electrical energy steering on steroids—delivers precision with out numbing the driving force’s senses.
Consolation mode tells a special story. Right here, the steering relaxes noticeably, splendid for metropolis driving and relaxed freeway cruising. I discovered myself navigating with ease utilizing only one hand, even at increased speeds. It’s a twin character that works. The iX3 adapts to your temper with an agility that’s uncommon in EVs.
I’ll depart the deeper engineering dialogue for our YouTube video, the place I sat down with the BMW engineer answerable for the steering tuning. However suffice it to say: that is a number of the greatest steering really feel I’ve encountered in an electrical automobile.
The Base Metal Suspension Impresses
Subsequent up, the suspension. The prototype I drove was fitted with the bottom metal spring suspension—adaptive damping can even be obtainable—however it was something however fundamental. After a couple of laps, I discovered myself praising the setup to the engineer driving shotgun. With a smile, he admitted that, sure, this would possibly simply be the most effective steel-spring suspension they’ve ever engineered for an EV. That’s a daring declare, however one which felt justified.
The experience was agency however by no means harsh. In contrast to some setups that bounce excessively over uneven roads, the iX3’s dampers rebounded rapidly and settled virtually instantly. I drove it over each kind of floor BMW had of their various Miramas testing floor—moist tarmac, potholes, patched asphalt, elevations—and it at all times remained composed. There was no floating, no secondary oscillation, only a clear, crisp response. In comparison with metal setups in different EVs—and even some adaptive methods—the iX3 struck a candy spot.
This turns into particularly related for on a regular basis use. As a every day driver, the iX3 50 xDrive with metal springs could be a implausible possibility. It presents simply sufficient compliance for consolation whereas offering the rigidity mandatory for enjoyable. And when geared up with adaptive damping, it’s prone to elevate the expertise even additional.
The prototypes got here with totally different tire setups. One was geared up with 255/40 R21 Goodyear Eagle tires—high-performance rubber with a bit extra street noise however added grip. Understandably, these would barely have an effect on vary, however they positively sharpen the driving expertise.
Moist Observe, No Drama: How the iX3 Mastered Low-Traction Situations
My subsequent check was maybe essentially the most thrilling—a water-drenched dealing with monitor with an extended U-shaped nook. Designed to discover grip and stability in low-traction situations, this course served as a playground for what the iX3 may actually do. I began cautiously, modulating throttle and steering inputs, anticipating the rear finish to finally let go. However Roman, the BMW engineer within the passenger seat, had different plans. “Belief the automobile,” he mentioned. So I did.
With the automobile in Dynamic mode and the accelerator pinned, I dialed in a pointy steering angle. The end result? Nothing broke unfastened. So I pushed more durable on the following lap—extra steering angle, extra throttle, much less margin for error. Nonetheless, the BMW iX3 refused to lose its composure. Grip was fixed. Stability management intervention was delicate with out deducting from the driving expertise. At 130 km/h, in soaking moist situations, the iX3 remained planted.
On the third and ultimate lap, Roman informed me to go for it—full dedication. I threw the whole lot at it. At this level, in most vehicles, I’d be absolutely sideways or spinning out. The iX3? Only a little bit of light wheelspin, so managed I may hold one hand on the wheel. It was virtually theatrical in its confidence. The PDC (Efficiency Dynamics Management) system deserves critical credit score right here. It labored within the background, by no means stealing the highlight, at all times letting me really feel in management.
As I rolled off the course, Roman glanced over and smiled. He knew what I used to be considering. Job performed.
Subsequent up: actual roads, and a brand new check automobile.
On a regular basis Consolation Meets Fanatic Agility on Actual Roads
I swapped into one other BMW iX3 50 xDrive prototype, this one sporting all-season tires. The drive route took us via a number of quiet French villages, chosen intentionally for his or her aggressive velocity bumps and imperfect pavement. My new co-driver, an engineer named Stefan, inspired me to check the suspension once more. “Attempt 50 km/h over the following one,” he mentioned with a smile.
Usually, that will ship a automobile’s suspension crashing and rebounding violently. However not within the iX3. The automobile soaked it up with only a single bounce and settled instantly. Nonetheless skeptical, I attempted once more—similar end result. I used to be beginning to imagine the hype. And simply to verify it wasn’t all smoke and mirrors, a small European hatchback went over the identical bump in entrance of us. Its rear axle bounced two, 3 times earlier than settling. I may solely think about what that felt like from inside.
I toggled between Consolation and Dynamic modes. Each dealt with the bumps confidently, with Dynamic offering a firmer however nonetheless comfy experience. For on a regular basis use, the tuning felt splendid—compliant sufficient for metropolis life, however sporty sufficient for enthusiastic driving.
Then the terrain modified. Slim, hilly backroads inspired extra spirited driving. I switched into Dynamic, dialed in essentially the most aggressive brake regen (B mode), and took off. The iX3 responded with confidence, flying via corners with sharp steering inputs and by no means as soon as breaking traction. The linear energy supply was addictive. What stood out most was how nicely the automobile managed braking: except you have been actively on the lookout for it, you couldn’t inform when hydraulic brakes kicked in to assist regen.
A pointy left-hander got here subsequent—uphill, quick, blind. “Do your greatest,” Stefan mentioned. So I did. Floored it. By the point I hit the apex, we have been doing 100 km/h. No understeer. No tire squeal. Simply exact management, like carving a line with a scalpel.
What you didn’t hear was simply as essential. There have been no bizarre brake sounds—no grinding, no low-pitched whining like in different BMW EVs. Within the present iX, for instance, mushy stops can emit an odd tone, significantly in D mode. However on this prototype, silence was the norm. The transition between regen and friction braking was seamless.
Panoramic Show, HUD, and iDrive X Interface
With the high-speed testing behind us, it was time to deal with one thing equally essential in a contemporary BMW: the tech. I had preliminary reservations about iDrive X and the brand new Panoramic Show—how intuitive may a completely reimagined system actually be? However inside minutes, I used to be navigating it like a well-recognized smartphone. It felt pure. The knowledge was projected simply above the dashboard, completely inside the driver’s area of view. It by no means felt intrusive, nor did it require a look removed from the street. The structure was elegant. Essential knowledge—like velocity and navigation—occupied the left portion, with customizable widgets to the precise
One standout characteristic is Silent Mode. When activated, it clears the central and right-hand parts of the show, leaving solely legally mandated info. It’s a minimalist method that enhances focus. Should you favor a extra data-rich setup, extra widgets might be added, together with a extremely legible navigation overlay that labored seamlessly in tandem with the principle central display screen.
At one level, I discovered myself questioning if I even wanted the Head-Up Show anymore. However that’s no knock on the HUD itself—it’s higher than ever. Positioned simply above the Panoramic Show, it presents sharp, high-fidelity graphics with a clear UI. One spotlight is a path graphic that exhibits street curvature and alerts for sharp bends—a characteristic BMW says is partly why they’ve chosen to not embody the Augmented Actuality View presently present in iDrive 8.5 and 9.
iDrive X, whereas nonetheless technically in pre-production, already felt polished. It’s extra responsive than any of the present iDrive methods. Navigating the display screen is less complicated due to extra horizontal scrolling and fewer menu layers. Its bigger display screen dimension means extra info is seen at a look, requiring fewer interactions and preserving your consideration the place it belongs—on the street. Some menus, like settings, undertake a vertical format harking back to Tesla’s interface. With no iDrive controller, interplay occurs by way of the display screen—and fortunately, it’s intuitive. Is it higher than utilizing buttons and switches? In fact not, however at the very least, it’s an enormous step ahead in contact interactions.
BMW has additionally streamlined apps by consolidating capabilities. As an illustration, the brand new My Automobile app now homes what was scattered throughout two or three menus. I received’t dive into each characteristic right here, however I captured an in depth walkthrough in our unique video demo.
Haptic Sensible Buttons and Considerate Ergonomics
Even the steering wheel displays BMW’s forward-looking method. New haptic buttons illuminate contextually, responding solely when related. I used to be skeptical at CES, however after in depth use, they appear to work nicely. They’re responsive, simple to make use of, and much much less susceptible to unintended presses. There’s additionally a small capacitive pad that means that you can scroll via playlists or station lists with a swipe of your finger, although its performance is presently restricted to those kind of interactions.
The steering wheel itself is thoughtfully designed—much less cumbersome than immediately’s M Sport wheels, with a flatter prime and backside and an general oval form that makes it simpler to grip and maneuver. One oddity: the BMW emblem was taped over, and with the 6 and 12 o’clock spoke structure, I often discovered myself questioning whether or not the wheel was completely centered. Nonetheless, its form and ergonomics labored nicely in spirited driving and relaxed cruising alike.
Seats, Inside House and Frunk
Seats in my prototypes didn’t look like the game ones, however they supplied ample lateral assist and luxury. Even throughout aggressive cornering, I stayed securely planted. As somebody who typically experiences again ache with seats which are too mushy or too agency, I used to be stunned to search out these hit the candy spot—supportive with out being punishing.
The middle console was extensive sufficient for each me and the co-driver to relaxation my elbows with out combating for area. A vertical wi-fi charging pad—now break up into left and proper sides—appeared to cost units evenly on each. BMW hasn’t launched full dimensions for the iX3 but, however it appeared barely longer than the present G45 X3. Inside area felt beneficiant. Rear passengers profit from a flat flooring, eliminating the raised seating posture frequent in different EVs. At 1.9 meters tall, I had ample headroom and legroom entrance and rear.
I wasn’t capable of open the trunk throughout my session, however BMW confirmed a frunk will probably be obtainable—simply don’t anticipate huge storage up entrance. It’s extra for comfort than capability.
The door handles additionally acquired an overhaul. Within the closed place, they sit flush with the physique. As you method with the important thing fob, they prolong outward. There’s even a small hidden button behind every deal with that permits you to manually shut them with out utilizing the fob—one other neat contact.
Sport-Altering Charging: 800V Structure and 400 kW Functionality
Subsequent, I turned my consideration to charging—arguably essentially the most essential metric for any EV purchaser. Due to the brand new 800V structure, the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive is able to charging at barely over 400 kW. Throughout the charging check, the iX3 added roughly 350 km of vary in simply 10 minutes. BMW says the system can preserve that peak for 3 to 5 minutes earlier than it begins to taper. A ten–80% state of cost might be achieved in about 20 minutes underneath splendid situations.
For North America, the iX3 will come geared up with a NACS connector, granting fast entry to the Tesla Supercharger community and the upcoming IONNA community. From day one, BMW house owners will have the ability to use hundreds of high-speed chargers throughout the U.S., eradicating a significant barrier to EV adoption.
The charging port has additionally been smartened up. The flap opens and closes mechanically, although there’s a catch. The extra DC fast-charging port solely closes by itself—it should be opened manually. That call is sensible: the automobile can’t predict in the event you’re plugging right into a Stage 2 charger or a DC fast-charger, so it defaults to guide for security.
Apparently, the flap may also open mechanically in two eventualities: first, when navigation to a charging station is entered, the flap opens as you arrive and exit the automobile. Second, in the event you haven’t entered a vacation spot however method with the charging cable in hand, the ultra-wideband sign out of your key tells the automobile to open the flap. Cleverly, it may distinguish whether or not you’re merely heading to the trunk or truly aspiring to plug in.
Stage 2+ However Improved
BMW isn’t giving the the iX3 a brand new label for its ADAS. As a substitute, they’re nonetheless going to supply the Stage 2+ capabilities from the previous, however improved in important areas. In Europe, the upcoming BMW Neue Klasse platform will debut with enhanced automated driving capabilities that meet the DCAS (Driver Management Help System) laws underneath UNECE R171. This superior system will enable the automobile to deal with each steering and acceleration on highways underneath steady driver supervision, utilizing a fusion of sensors, high-definition maps, and real-time AI processing by way of BMW’s “Coronary heart of Pleasure” central laptop.
A number of the stuff you’re not allowed anymore to do is promote via phrases that you would be able to take your fingers off the steering wheel, for instance.
One other cool characteristic coming, at the very least to European-spec iX3s, is the power to retain the Stage 2+ capabilities when solely frivolously taping the brake pedal. At present, as quickly as you faucet that brake pedal, the ADAS is turned off.
Now comes my favourite characteristic: altering lanes with out utilizing the blinkers. The BMW iX3 makes use of the Energetic Lane Change with Eye Activation tech, however tuned up. So after you get the alert that you would be able to safely change lanes, you look into the aspect mirror, and as a substitute of utilizing the flip sign stalk, frivolously steer the automobile to left or proper, and the blinkers will come on and the iX3 will change the lane for you.
There are much more options to speak about, like pedestrian detection, impediment avoidance and extra, however we can have a full video on this on our Youtube channel, so go test it out!
Closing Verdict: The 2026 BMW iX3 Redefines the Electrical Crossover
After a full day behind the wheel of the NA5 iX3 prototype, I can confidently say this: BMW isn’t simply evolving—they’re reimagining what a premium electrical crossover needs to be. This isn’t simply one other electrical SUV—it’s the reboot of the unique Neue Klasse, a contemporary reply to the vehicles that saved BMW within the Nineteen Sixties. It’s revolutionary, sensible, and deeply satisfying to drive.
I got here to Miramas cautiously optimistic. I left genuinely impressed. The 2026 BMW iX3 combines good chassis tuning, outstanding vary and charging capabilities, and futuristic tech right into a package deal that feels full. And let’s not neglect the Coronary heart of Pleasure—the superbrain that ties all of it collectively.
I’ve been essential of BMW when warranted. However this time? Chapeaux.
