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 automobiles would really stay 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. Usually reserved for confidential testing, Miramas hosts rigorous testing packages for BMW Group’s whole future product lineup, together with bikes. Gaining entry usually feels just like accessing a high-security navy base, full with pre-clearance protocols, exhaustive paperwork, and obligatory taping over of all telephone 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 rigorously 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 bold lineup of next-generation electrical automobiles. Whereas closely camouflaged and coated with plastic panels to hide its actual design and tremendous 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 at present. The general form is precisely what we noticed on the Idea Imaginative and prescient X with a extra coupeish roofline that on the G45 X3 and shorter bonnet than regular since there isn’t any engine on the entrance.
https://youtu.be/AuJFOEj519I?si=JFa10gSq2oWwGjgb
A Radical New Inside: iDrive X, Panoramic Show, and Digital Minimalism
The inside cabin diverse throughout automobiles, reflecting totally different phases of improvement and underscoring that last manufacturing trims and supplies had been nonetheless in flux. However entering into the iX3’s cabin instantly revealed important adjustments and tech improvements. Prominently positioned within the heart 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 your 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 further spokes at 5 and seven), and one other with unconventional 6 and 12 o’clock spokes—a format beforehand averted as a consequence of considerations about instrument visibility.
Conventional controls just like the acquainted iDrive controller and kit shifter are gone, changed by minimalist interfaces echoing current BMW inside design philosophy. Should you assume we don’t have lots of buttons at present, then you definately’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.
General, BMW had adopted a refreshingly minimalist and futuristic design language which stays to be seen how it is going to be considered by clients and followers of the model.
Driving Into the Future: The Silent Begin and Simplified Driving Modes
A shocking omission was the traditional 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 intensive customization, together with adjustable steering suggestions, drivetrain responsiveness, brake regeneration energy, and even seat backrest firmness and aspect bolster help.
The agenda was complete and difficult, designed to totally consider the driving dynamics of the BMW iX3 (NA5). I tackled all the pieces 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 further 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 take 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 load distribution is 49-50 entrance/rear.
BMW distinguishes itself from some opponents that rely solely 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 Recreation-Altering Automobile Supercomputer
On the coronary heart of this pioneering expertise 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 additionally 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 reality, this slogan debuted in 1964, alongside the unique Neue Klasse fashions that basically reshaped the corporate’s future.
Dealing with Course At Excessive Speeds
My testing started on a well-known but difficult dealing with course that includes various highway surfaces—together with moist tracks to simulate slippery circumstances. Initially unfamiliar with the automotive’s exact conduct, the primary laps across the dealing with course started cautiously. Nearly instantly, nonetheless, I seen a big distinction in comparison with earlier BMW electrical automotive 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 capacity to course of huge quantities of sensory knowledge ten occasions quicker than earlier programs translated straight into spectacularly clean dealing with and complicated vitality recuperation.
Put merely, the Coronary heart of Pleasure integrates historically separate automobile dynamics programs into one highly effective central computing unit, coordinating acceleration, braking, steering, and vitality regeneration seamlessly. Algorithms finely management every perform, decreasing response occasions 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 exhausting braking into corners, regenerative braking drive is distributed throughout each axles. What you be taught shortly is that even aggressive throttle inputs on nook exit delivers distinctive traction. Even throughout abrupt evasive maneuvers, the clever system constantly 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 usually attribute of performance-focused EVs.
Braking dynamics equally impressed: roughly 90 % of braking relied on electrical motor regeneration, seamlessly complemented by hydraulic brakes when vital. BMW emphasised that regenerative braking may enhance 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 sometimes examined it with eyes closed to determine if the automotive actually stopped. The transitions had 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 capacity to decelerate with out breaking a sweat was a standout. In city circumstances or stop-and-go visitors, this stage of refinement may considerably cut back passenger fatigue and discomfort. Even when testing the automotive’s conduct on 12% and 20% gradients, each uphill and downhill, the braking remained equally clean. That is particularly helpful 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 yr, 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 automotive really feel extra like a well-sorted rear-wheel-drive sport sedan than an electrical crossover. Exiting corners was drama-free, fast, and completely confidence-inspiring. There was no understeer to talk of—only a automotive that intuitively adopted the path of the steering with athletic precision.
A Model-New Steering Software
Talking of steering, it’s a serious leap ahead for BMW’s electrical portfolio. Though the platform shares some geometry with the G45 X3, the engineering philosophy behind it’s fully totally different. BMW’s engineers targeted on offering extra pure suggestions from the highway whereas rigorously avoiding the synthetic really feel that may include amped-up electrical help. In Dynamic mode, the steering felt significantly sharp and communicative. I may really feel refined highway textures and the chunk of the entrance tires. This EPS setup—basically an electrical energy steering on steroids—delivers precision with out numbing the motive force’s senses.
Consolation mode tells a distinct 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 persona that works. The iX3 adapts to your temper with an agility that’s uncommon in EVs.
I’ll go away 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 few of the finest 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 primary. After a couple of laps, I discovered myself praising the setup to the engineer using shotgun. With a smile, he admitted that, sure, this would possibly simply be the perfect 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 shortly 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 programs—the iX3 struck a candy spot.
This turns into particularly related for on a regular basis use. As a day by day driver, the iX3 50 xDrive with metal springs could be a improbable possibility. It provides simply sufficient compliance for consolation whereas offering the rigidity vital for enjoyable. And when outfitted with adaptive damping, it’s prone to elevate the expertise even additional.
The prototypes got here with totally different tire setups. One was outfitted with 255/40 R21 Goodyear Eagle tires—high-performance rubber with a bit extra highway noise however added grip. Understandably, these would barely have an effect on vary, however they positively sharpen the driving expertise.
Moist Monitor, No Drama: How the iX3 Mastered Low-Traction Situations
My subsequent take a look at was maybe essentially the most thrilling—a water-drenched dealing with observe with an extended U-shaped nook. Designed to discover grip and stability in low-traction circumstances, 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 automotive,” he mentioned. So I did.
With the automotive in Dynamic mode and the accelerator pinned, I dialed in a pointy steering angle. The end result? Nothing broke free. 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 refined with out deducting from the driving expertise. At 130 km/h, in soaking moist circumstances, the iX3 remained planted.
On the third and last lap, Roman instructed me to go for it—full dedication. I threw all the pieces 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 maintain 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 pondering. Job finished.
Subsequent up: actual roads, and a brand new take a look at automotive.
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 by way of 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 might ship a automotive’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—identical 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. Slender, 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 by way of 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 properly the automotive managed braking: until you had been actively searching for it, you couldn’t inform when hydraulic brakes kicked in to help regen.
A pointy left-hander got here subsequent—uphill, quick, blind. “Do your finest,” Stefan mentioned. So I did. Floored it. By the point I hit the apex, we had 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, comfortable 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-known smartphone. It felt pure. The knowledge was projected simply above the dashboard, completely inside the driver’s discipline of view. It by no means felt intrusive, nor did it require a look removed from the highway. The format 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 strategy that enhances focus. Should you want a extra data-rich setup, further widgets will be added, together with a extremely legible navigation overlay that labored seamlessly in tandem with the primary 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 provides sharp, high-fidelity graphics with a clear UI. One spotlight is a path graphic that reveals highway curvature and alerts for sharp bends—a characteristic BMW says is partly why they’ve chosen to not embrace 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 programs. Navigating the display screen is simpler because of 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 highway. Some menus, like settings, undertake a vertical format paying homage to Tesla’s interface. With no iDrive controller, interplay occurs through the display screen—and fortunately, it’s intuitive. Is it higher than utilizing buttons and switches? In fact not, however at the 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 once 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 Good Buttons and Considerate Ergonomics
Even the steering wheel displays BMW’s forward-looking strategy. New haptic buttons illuminate contextually, responding solely when related. I used to be skeptical at CES, however after intensive use, they appear to work properly. They’re responsive, simple to make use of, and much much less susceptible to unintentional presses. There’s additionally a small capacitive pad that permits you to scroll by way of 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 at present’s M Sport wheels, with a flatter high and backside and an general oval form that makes it simpler to grip and maneuver. One oddity: the BMW brand was taped over, and with the 6 and 12 o’clock spoke format, I sometimes discovered myself questioning whether or not the wheel was completely centered. Nonetheless, its form and ergonomics labored properly 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 help and luxury. Even throughout aggressive cornering, I stayed securely planted. As somebody who usually experiences again ache with seats which are too comfortable or too agency, I used to be stunned to seek out these hit the candy spot—supportive with out being punishing.
The middle console was large sufficient for each me and the co-driver to relaxation my elbows with out combating for area. A vertical wi-fi charging pad—now cut 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 in a position to 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 strategy with the important thing fob, they prolong outward. There’s even a small hidden button behind every deal with that allows you to manually shut them with out utilizing the fob—one other neat contact.
Recreation-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. Because of the brand new 800V structure, the 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive is able to charging at barely over 400 kW. Through the charging take a look at, the iX3 added roughly 350 km of vary in simply 10 minutes. BMW says the system can keep that peak for 3 to 5 minutes earlier than it begins to taper. A ten–80% state of cost will be achieved in about 20 minutes underneath splendid circumstances.
For North America, the iX3 will come outfitted with a NACS connector, granting quick entry to the Tesla Supercharger community and the upcoming IONNA community. From day one, BMW homeowners will have the ability to use 1000’s of high-speed chargers throughout the U.S., eradicating a serious 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 have to be opened manually. That call is smart: the automobile can’t predict when you’re plugging right into a Stage 2 charger or a DC fast-charger, so it defaults to handbook for security.
Curiously, the flap may open mechanically in two eventualities: first, when navigation to a charging station is entered, the flap opens as you arrive and exit the automotive. Second, when you haven’t entered a vacation spot however strategy with the charging cable in hand, the ultra-wideband sign out of your key tells the automotive to open the flap. Cleverly, it will possibly distinguish whether or not you’re merely heading to the trunk or really desiring 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) rules 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 through BMW’s “Coronary heart of Pleasure” central laptop.
Among the belongings you’re not allowed anymore to do is promote by way of phrases that you would be able to take your arms off the steering wheel, for instance.
One other cool characteristic coming, at the least to European-spec iX3s, is the flexibility to retain the Stage 2+ capabilities when solely evenly taping the brake pedal. Immediately, 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 Lively 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 an alternative of utilizing the flip sign stalk, evenly steer the automotive 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 may have a full video on this on our Youtube channel, so go test it out!
Remaining 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 progressive, good, and deeply satisfying to drive.
I got here to Miramas cautiously optimistic. I left genuinely impressed. The 2026 BMW iX3 combines good chassis tuning, exceptional 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.
