class = “sc-cffd1e67-0 iQNQmc”>
BMW presented its “New Class” vision at the IAA in Munich in 2023; a notchback sedan that should do everything better than before in terms of driving technology, operation and driver support. But before the sedan hits the roads in 2026, the series version of the “New Class X” SUV study is planned to be launched in the autumn of 2025 as the new BMW iX3.
With its BMW-specific Hofmeister bend on the vehicle side and its almost three-meter-long wheelbase, this work looks quite retro-futuristic, especially at the front. So what does the somewhat cumbersome New Class X concept offer?
Memories from the 1960s
New class – it just doesn’t sound like wood at the international level. Even in Germany almost no one knows what to do with this term anymore. Let’s explain: In the early 1960s, after difficult times and a near takeover by Mercedes, BMW dared to make a fresh start with the new class. Then, as now, it was more of a project name. At the time, the name referred to the BMW 1800, which offered a performance range of 90 to 130 hp between 1963 and 1971; This was great dynamism for a sporty family sedan in the then newly created middle class.
Just like in the 1960s, the new class, which will be launched in the autumn of 2025, includes much more than a single model. The production, development, value creation and platform of the entire portfolio is being changed. “The new class is designed exclusively for electric vehicles,” explains BMW development director Frank Weber (57). The new BMW iX3 will launch the new class in autumn 2025. In its design and technology, this is strongly reminiscent of the BMW i Vision Dee study, which was first shown at the Consumer Electronics Show CES in Las Vegas in 2023.
Six new models by 2027
Following the electric mid-range crossover iX3, five new BMW models will follow by the end of 2027; These include the BMW i3 in 2026, which will also be available as a Touring station wagon version later. The iX3 is produced at the new BMW iFactory in Debrecen, Hungary.
When it comes to drives, there will be a new generation of existing electric motors for the i3 and iX3. The vehicles are available with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive and produce between 200 and 500 hp. A BMW i3M with over 600 hp is also expected to hit the market by 2027, of course as a 4×4 and (for the first time for an electric BMW) with a top speed of over 250 km/h.
Range of more than 600 kilometers
With the new class, battery technology will be converted to a contemporary 800-volt onboard electrical system. This allows for significantly faster charging speeds (over 270 kW). This is also possible with round lithium-ion battery cells installed for the first time. They enable refueling for another 300 kilometers in ten minutes. An improvement in drag coefficient of about one-fifth will provide further advantages in terms of performance and range. BMW promises a range of more than 600 kilometers, an increase of up to 30 percent.
Inside there is a lot of recycled materials, backlit fabric elements, ample space for five people and a completely new information concept. In addition to the large central display, the driver is informed via indicators behind the steering wheel and the 3D head-up display. But the technical highlight is a screen called Panoramic View, which extends across the full width of the lower windshield and shows a wide range of content to all passengers.
Nothing is yet known about the prices and exact start of sales of the new i3 and iX3. It will also be interesting to see how many elements of the work are ultimately adapted into the production model.
Source: Blick
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
