- Patent drawings reveal the design of the next-generation BMW iX3 electric SUV.
- Previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse X Concept, it’s set to go on sale in 2025.
- The BMW iX3 will share its Neue Klasse platform with the forthcoming i3 sedan.
The upcoming launch of the new iX3 represents a pivotal moment for BMW. Not only will this all-electric SUV distinguish itself from the internal combustion engine X3, but it will also serve as the first production model to utilize the much-anticipated Neue Klasse platform and design philosophy.
While the big reveal is still some time away, patent drawings have now surfaced, giving us a first look at its design—albeit through the lens of low-resolution images. We did our best to upscale them, though we’ll swap them for higher-quality versions as soon as they become available. Despite the limitations, the design details are clear enough to invite some initial observations.
From Concept to Reality
The production model stays surprisingly faithful to the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Concept unveiled back in March 2024, as evidenced by the patent drawings we’ve included for both the production model and the original study. That said, some concessions to practicality have been made. For example, the futuristic fin-shaped side mirrors have been swapped for conventional units, and flush-mounted door handles have given way to pop-out handles—both necessary for mass production.
More: BMW i3 Neue Klasse Sedan Spied For The First Time
A closer look reveals that the production car features smaller wheels (though that’s something that will depend on the trim) and a reduced panoramic roof, while thicker pillars and subtly reshaped bumpers further signal a shift toward everyday usability.
The patent drawings don’t show the LED graphics on the headlights and taillights, which are expected to be toned-down for production. Another interesting bit is the Y-shaped element on the rear side windows, which was also evident in the concept, albeit in transparent form.
The interior remains a mystery for now, as the patent drawings reveal nothing about the cabin. However, it is safe to assume that the iX3 will feature BMW’s new digital cockpit. This setup is expected to include a trapezoidal central touchscreen alongside the BMW Panoramic Vision display, which spans the base of the windshield. Compared to the concept, expect darker interior tones, less avant-garde design choices (a more conventional steering wheel, for instance), and the extensive use of sustainable materials.
Powertrains and Range
The iX3 will introduce BMW’s EV-dedicated Neue Klasse underpinnings, which will be shared with the upcoming i3 sedan, a prototype of which we spied earlier this week. This 800V architecture supports both single- and dual-motor configurations, with outputs projected to range between 300 and 600 hp.
BMW is also introducing next-generation battery technology for its Neue Klasse models, promising a 20% boost in energy density and a 30% improvement in both charging speed and range. According to the brand, these new batteries could deliver over 800 km (500 miles) on a single charge. However, whether the iX3 itself will achieve those figures remains to be seen.
All Neue Klasse EVs will feature bi-directional charging, enabling users to power their homes using their vehicles via a BMW DC Wallbox Professional. Additionally, owners will be able to plug electrical appliances directly into their vehicles to power them.
The iX3 might look very different from the similarly-sized CLAR-based X3, but this won’t be the case with the equivalent sedans. Our spy photographers recently caught prototypes of the i3 sedan and the next generation of the 3-Series, incorporating the Neue Klasse styling language in slightly different proportions. This is consistent with BMW’s strategy for the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series, and will also be the case for the future iX5/X5.
More: BMW’s Neue Klasse Design Is Coming To All ICE Models
The iX3 may stand apart visually from the similarly-sized CLAR-based X3 in its current form, but this level of differentiation won’t extend to BMW’s next-generation compact sedan lineup. Spy shots of the i3 sedan and the next-generation 3-Series reveal both models adopting the Neue Klasse design language, albeit with slightly altered proportions since they’re going to be based on different platforms. This aligns with BMW’s approach for the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series pairings and is expected to carry over to future models like the iX5/X5 as well.
BMW Neue Klasse X Concept
