BMW’s iX3 Prototype Stuns With Rolls-Royce-Level Refinement
The first Neue Klasse EV hints at BMW’s electric future – and it’s more impressive than we imagined
After years of anticipation, BMW’s revolutionary Neue Klasse electric vehicles are finally coming into focus. Our first drive of a near-production iX3 prototype in France reveals an EV that could redefine expectations for the brand – particularly in one surprising area where it rivals ultra-luxury marques.
A Braking Revelation
What struck our veteran tester most wasn’t the promised 30% faster charging or 30% more range (though both appear legitimate), but rather how the iX3 stops. The prototype’s brake pedal feel and deceleration smoothness drew direct comparisons to Rolls-Royce and Bentley – an extraordinary achievement for a mainstream luxury EV. This refinement stems from BMW’s new integrated braking system, combining regenerative and friction braking with unprecedented seamlessness.
More Than Just an Electric X3
While sharing its name with today’s China-built iX3, this next-generation model represents a complete clean-sheet design:
- First vehicle on BMW’s dedicated Neue Klasse EV platform
- 800-volt architecture enabling 270kW+ charging speeds
- New cylindrical battery cells offering 20% greater energy density
- Revolutionary “Panoramic Vision” augmented reality display
Production Timeline
BMW will fully unveil the production iX3 this September, with manufacturing beginning in late 2024. The model will spearhead a wave of Neue Klasse vehicles, including:
- 2025: iX3 and 3 Series-sized sedan
- 2026: Compact SUV and potential M performance variants
Why This Matters
The prototype suggests BMW has solved two critical EV challenges:
- Charging Anxiety: 10-80% charges in under 20 minutes
- Driving Dynamics: Maintains BMW’s signature handling despite battery weight
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the iX3 would be BMW’s first ground-up EV platform. While it’s the first Neue Klasse model, BMW previously developed the i3 on a dedicated EV architecture.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology, surprising luxury touches, and legitimate performance credentials, the iX3 prototype makes one thing clear: BMW’s electric future looks brighter than ever. The real test comes this fall when we can verify these impressions in final production form.
