Overview
The brand-new BMW iX3 marks a revolution for BMW. This midsize premium SUV is the first production vehicle built upon BMW's bespoke electric Neue Klasse platform. Shifting the brand into a high tech era, it directly targets rivals like the Volvo EX60 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric. It represents a pivotal moment for the manufacturer, securing major accolades including the EV Hub Best Overall EV of 2025 by delivering class-leading efficiency, astonishing range, and superb driving.
Design
The exterior design is a crisp, modern reboot of the company's traditional styling, moving away from the complex and aggressive front-ends seen on recent cars. Up front, it features a flush, wide, and neatly integrated layout where the iconic kidney grilles are in the middle of a classic four-eye light signature reminiscent of the brand's iconic 1970s saloons. The overall body profile is smooth and aerodynamic, achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.24. Massive 20-inch or 21-inch aerodynamic wheels sit flush within the arches, giving it a distinctive and futuristic look.
Interior
Inside, the cabin takes a massive leap forward by embracing a clean, digital layout that still keeps some character. The headline innovation is the Panoramic Vision display. A thin projection running across the entire base of the windscreen that serves as an ultra-wide head-up display for vital driving data and customisable widgets. It is accompanied by a unique six-sided central touchscreen positioned perfectly within reach of the driver. Material quality is exceptional with modern, sustainable textiles and ambient lighting that feels premium. Physical controls are unfortunately heavily reduced, which stream-lines the look but places heavy reliance on the fast, responsive new iDrive software.
Performance & Powertrains
Built on a cutting-edge 800V architecture, the 50 xDrive uses a dual-motor, AWD setup producing a potent 469hp and 645Nm of torque. It runs the 0–62mph sprint in a swift 4.9 seconds before reaching a capped top speed of 130mph. Energy is stored in a sixth-generation 108kWh battery pack that ditches standard internal modules for space-efficient cylindrical cells. This delivers a phenomenal range of 500 miles. DC rapid charging speeds peak at an incredible 400kW, enabling the iX3 to replenish 200 miles of range in just 10 minutes, or complete a 10% to 80% charge in approximately half an hour. The newer 40 model decreases the battery capacity to 83kWh, giving it a respectable range of 395 miles. The smaller battery also only manages a 300kW charging speed. On the move, the chassis feels remarkably light, managing its 2.3-tonne kerb weight beautifully through twisty country lanes while maintaining excellent stability on the motorway, though the low-speed urban ride can feel slightly firm and taut over sharp imperfections.
Practicality
Passenger packaging is highly efficient due to the dedicated EV platform, ensuring a flat floor and ample room for 4 tall adults to stretch out in comfort. The boot is highly competitive for the midsize segment, offering a flat 520-litre load area with the rear seats upright. Fold down the 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench, and cargo capacity expands to a massive 1,750 litres. Charging cables can easily be tucked away under the boot floor or placed into the convenient 58-litre frunk. An electrically retractable tow bar can be optioned, allowing the vehicle to pull a hefty 2,000kg braked trailer.
Buying
The BMW iX3 lineup starts at £53,250 for the entry-level 40 trim, climbing to £58,755 for the larger battery 50 xDrive, and topping out at £62,755 for the M Sport Pro 50 xDrive. Given the massive battery capacity, high-end charging capabilities, and class-leading driving dynamics, it's incredibly strong value compared to more expensive alternatives. The EV Hub Recommended Configuration is base iX3 50 xDrive with the added 20" aerodynamic wheels, coming to £59,305. This strikes the absolute best balance of value, all the benefits of the larger battery, the full 500-mile range, and the generous standard equipment with many options available to take it further.