Facing the real All-New BMW iX3 in person, one word sums it up: the blue propeller brand's core essence clearly flows throughout the car without question. Yet, it's a fresh new look from Bavaria that has been catapulted years into the future! Shedding its current-generation identity without hesitation, it now rides on an all-new 100% electric platform, while reviving the iconic BMW shark-nose kidney grille—a legendary design that has kept BMW thriving to this day. Bringing back this historic platform name and refreshing it to shine in this era, the design philosophy has been thoroughly transformed inside and out to the point of near unrecognizability.
BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport with the new Neue Klasse platform is priced at 3,599,000 baht.
Certainly, as a completely new design that sharply breaks from the combustion-engine X3's style, the updated BMW iX3 looks more modern. Opinions are divided, but after a brief test drive at Pathum Thani Speedway, one truth becomes clear: photos on a computer or phone screen can be deceiving, making the car seem disconnected from BMW's heritage. In reality, the iX3 50 xDrive's handling stays true to the BMW X Model spirit. More impressive than its looks or power is that this electric SUV not only presents a fresh exterior but also delivers a new sensation when sitting inside. The latest iX3 driver’s seat is refined and comfortable, with well-engineered systems controlled by a central computer that calculates and adjusts commands faster than a blink. The new iX3 is ambitious, driving superior to all previous BMW EVs, including the larger iX, which clearly lacks its dynamic edge.
To be frank without flattery, the iX3's design looks unusual and distinct from the internal combustion X3. The younger generation finds it attractive, especially the rear, where the wheel arches smoothly connect to the rear pillars. Its driving and handling performance are impressively refined. Although the test drive was brief, it’s clear that BMW's investment and effort are yielding a modern vehicle that still holds onto BMW’s driving emotion. The cabin offers a genuinely special and luxurious feel—whether in the driver’s seat, front passenger, or rear seats. The seats feature leather textures and color tones similar to the iX. Once you pass the initial excitement of the interior and quickly learn the new technology systems, you’ll realize this is authentic Bavarian craftsmanship.
The iX3’s unveiling sends a clear signal: Europe has awakened and stopped strolling leisurely in the EV battlefield. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport breaks charging speed records and boasts a driving range of around 800 kilometers, proudly surpassing top EVs from Chinese brands in Europe. What sets Bavaria apart is pairing these specs with meticulous assembly quality, dynamic tuning tailored to customer cornering styles, and rock-solid stability at high speeds. These are signature traits where European luxury automakers still excel unmatched worldwide.
Judging just from photos, the iX3’s design breaks traditional BMW rules and defies every model in the brand’s history. But trust me, when you see it in person, you’ll never mistake it for another brand. The front design is aggressive and futuristic, standing out especially at night with the distinctive shark-tooth grille. The proportions and details elsewhere are understated and surprisingly clean. DC fast charging speeds hit 400 kW, with a full range of 800 kilometers claimed. Driving dynamics remain firmly sporty and solid, true to BMW’s style. The interior trim is elevated to a more modern premium level. The standard suspension is a bit stiff and firm in absorbing shocks due to 22-inch wheels with low-profile 35-series tires almost touching the road. Steering ratios require more effort in tight turns, but the precision clearly marks it as a BMW.
The front design features a closed twin kidney grille (Faux Kidney Grille) flanked by slim daytime running light strips. The shark-tooth grille stands out, especially at night. Unlike some other BMW models that awkwardly place lights inside the grille looking like cheap aftermarket additions, the iX3’s shark-nose is structurally engineered and refined for its lighting system from the ground up.
The aggressive slant and sharp nose intentionally reference the original Neue Klasse DNA from the 1960s, which shaped BMW’s design direction for decades. The design team cleverly draws on past glory with sophistication, avoiding making the iX3 a tasteless retro copy. The side body lines are my favorite aspect: minimal and simple without flashy strokes. Compared to other futuristic elements, this angle appears somewhat plain, though subtle curves on the wheel arches and crisp folds along the lower rear door edge add visual depth, resulting in a clean overall impression.
Shifting the view to the three-quarter rear, the pronounced rear wheel arch bulge gives the car a bold, commanding presence and a planted stance with large wheels. The test vehicle features the M Sport package, including front and rear bumpers, two-tone sporty alloy wheels, and a fully sporty interior with bucket seats that hug the body in corners. The M Sport rear bumper includes a massive diffuser integrated with vertical reflector panels framed by glossy black plastic, perfectly transforming the previously bland rear into a thoroughly sporty look.
The arrival of the new Neue Klasse platform marks a major engineering leap beyond BMW’s previous EVs, including those adapted from the CLAR platform and even the fully electric iX, which lacked efficient space utilization. This iX3 is BMW’s first EV to offer a front trunk (frunk). The rear cabin floor is flat, allowing the middle rear passenger comfortable foot space. This innovation sets it apart from all other BMW models except the larger iX, which offers a somewhat similar spacious atmosphere.
The iX3 is roughly the same size as the internal combustion X3, but its interior feels noticeably more spacious and airy—approaching the cabin volume of larger SUVs like the X5. The driver’s seat position comfortably accommodates taller individuals with longer legs. In the second row, legroom remains ample, though fitting three large adults side-by-side may feel a bit cramped shoulder-to-shoulder. The airy cabin atmosphere is a novelty not previously seen in BMW vehicles, with only the iX coming close. Ultimately, the iX3 boldly breaks the mold with a unique screen layout, futuristic steering wheel shape, and use of materials and textures that avoid monotony.
DRIVER ORIENTATION (Driver-Centric Design)
The new control and display concept reinterprets BMW’s classic driver-centric philosophy using geometry and screen layout principles. Information is arranged diagonally within the driver's direct line of sight, creating a "Cone of Vision" that naturally focuses the driver's attention on the road, enabling efficient perception and vehicle control.
This concept is perfected by the uniquely shaped central display and its internal layout. The horizontally and precisely arranged user interface on the BMW Panoramic Vision Display enables seamless, accurate, and comprehensive control of all vehicle systems.
For the first time ever, BMW unveils the BMW PANORAMIC iDRIVE integrating the intelligent BMW OPERATING SYSTEM X.
The 3D HEAD-UP DISPLAY projects essential driving information and 3D graphic animations directly into the driver’s line of sight on the windshield, appearing to float parallel to the road surface ahead. Particularly, the Active Route Guidance system, when activated with driver assistance features like front vehicle detection, allows the BMW 3D Head-Up Display to support the driver precisely.
BMW PANORAMIC VISION (Panoramic Vision Display System)
BMW Panoramic Vision technology transforms the black band area at the windshield base into a large, full-width display visible to all passengers. The information appears to float in midair, delivering a luxurious, premium 3D visual effect.
CENTRAL DISPLAY (Central Screen)
The central display features a diagonal free-cut design positioned ergonomically, offering smooth touch controls that reflect BMW’s driver-centric DNA. It provides full access to infotainment functions for the driver and front passenger. Its special angled design also allows rear passengers to clearly view displayed information.
MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEEL (MFL)
The multifunction steering wheel (MFL) is designed to let the driver freely control content displayed on the BMW Panoramic Vision windshield screen, adhering to the global safety principle: eyes on the road, hands on the wheel. Controls on the steering column facilitate precise, convenient operation without distraction.
Control functions are intelligently categorized: the left button panel manages all driver assistance systems, following previous BMW models’ conventions (with feedback displayed on the leftmost part of the Panoramic Vision screen). The right panel controls content shown in the central and right screen areas.
SHY TECH (Subtle Intelligent Technology)
The steering wheel applies Shy Tech design, integrating buttons and symbols flush with the column that only illuminate when active, minimizing driver distraction. The lighting status changes finely according to current function modes.
Car in Parking: Vehicle is stationary (other functions' lights off except basic control buttons).
Assisted Driving available: Driver assistance systems on standby and ready to activate.
Assisted Driving & Parking available: Both driver assistance and automatic parking systems ready to work in tandem.
Assisted Parking active: Automatic parking is fully engaged (green indicator on the upper assistance button).
Assisted Driving active: Intelligent driver assistance fully active at that moment.
BMW 3D Head-Up Display Technology
The BMW 3D Head-Up Display advances from previous generation HUDs by projecting essential driving data directly onto the windshield in 3D. It simulates a bird's-eye view of the car and surroundings, navigation routes, and nearby vehicles, offering realistic and precise environmental awareness.
The iX3’s layout between the Panoramic Display at the windshield base and the rectangular central screen is functional. The Panoramic Display acts as a full-width head-up display reflected from below, performing smartly in practice. Drivers can customize the display, including turning off peripheral information to show only essential driving data, reducing glare and distractions during long night drives.
The central screen is a highlight with its unusual rectangular shape, sharp image clarity, smooth response, and premium feel, comparable to the OLED round screen in the new Mini. BMW’s latest OS X operating system impresses with well-thought-out layout, natural usability, and significant improvements over previous generations, although some nostalgia remains for the classic iDrive rotary controller.
Inside, some knitted plastic trim surfaces feel slightly coarse, though their use is minimal. Elsewhere, material quality is upgraded with luxurious finishes befitting the price. The upper door panel plastics feel soft, and even lower sections maintain good texture. The M Sport test car adds special Alcantara trims across door tops, dashboard, and seats, enhancing both aesthetics and tactile experience.
Seating and driving position are comfortable with no deductions. The seat height is slightly elevated, typical for SUVs. Although the driver must now look over the steering wheel to see speed due to the Panoramic Display relocating to the windshield base, the driving fun and BMW character remain intact. The M Sport seats blend firm lateral support with cushioning for long trips. I prefer these seats over the M Sport seats in the combustion X3 in both style and comfort.
The steering wheel design, especially the two-spoke M Sport version tested, features lowered stalks and a familiar shape but retains a futuristic floating theme. Regardless of opinions on its looks, gripping it offers a tight, confident feel ready to accelerate sharply. This is a positive evolution from older BMW wheels. Importantly, the unusual shape never interferes with low-speed steering maneuvers as initially feared.
Supporting DC fast charging up to 400 kW, BMW claims the iX3’s large 108.7 kWh battery can charge from 10% to 80% in 21 minutes, with a stable average current around 250 kW. This performance puts it on par with top Chinese EVs currently dominating the European market. BMW also notes that a brief 10-minute fast charge extends range by 350 km. However, the 108.7 kWh battery is very heavy, almost 200 kg heavier than the new GLC Electric’s battery, giving the iX3 a curb weight of 2,300 kg—comparable to the last combustion-engine X5. Rumors suggest Mercedes-Benz claims that despite the iX3’s larger battery, their New GLC 400 Electric’s superior energy management and lighter weight keep its real-world range within 85 km of the iX3, possibly less. When the GLC 400 Electric launches this October, this claim will be tested, but its advanced energy and thermal management systems suggest it could be true.
Equipped with aerodynamically designed small-profile Aero Wheels, this iX3 xDrive 50 claims a WLTP maximum range of 805 km. BMW engineers recorded over 1,000 km at low speeds on public roads during tests. Yet, in real-world driving with normal habits and occasional heavy throttle use to enjoy the 645 Nm torque, actual range will not approach the WLTP figure. A real-world range of about 700 km would already be impressive.
During charging tests, the vehicle’s display showed a remaining range of 501 km, an excellent and impressive number. However, drag racing on the track doesn’t consume that much energy. Considering heavy right-foot driving and hot afternoon temperatures during the test, typical city driving at low speeds yielded energy consumption around 17 kWh per 100 km. This corresponds to a real-world range near 640 km, coincidentally matching the US EPA estimate and closely rivaling the GLC 400’s range.
Throwing a mid-size SUV weighing 2,300 kg through hard corners at Pathum Thani Speedway shouldn’t feel this entertaining or fun! Despite having standard suspension rather than adaptive dampers, the iX3’s chassis remains rock-solid and flat in corners, maintaining stability and enabling faster speeds than other SUVs I’ve driven there. Its cornering and acceleration feel are impressively BMW-like.
Its steering feel when weaving through sharp corners is noticeably more enjoyable than the combustion X3, even the six-cylinder X3 M50 can’t match the twin-motor iX3’s speed. Credit goes to the large, heavy battery pack mounted very low under the floor, integrated structurally into the chassis to enhance rigidity. The tested M Sport model has no lowered ride height or stiffened springs; the factory setup is already firm and taut. The stiff feel occurs only on rough road joints and potholes, while smooth surfaces deliver comfortable quiet rides. The iX3 runs extremely quietly.
The standard shock absorbers soften impacts adequately, but on rough, wavy roads, the ride feels quite firm—not harshly bouncy though. The damping valves excel at absorbing heavy jolts, minimizing harsh vibrations. However, the 22-inch low-profile tires inflated very hard transmit every road texture and gravel particle more clearly than competitors in this segment, even sport-labeled SUVs from other brands.
If you aggressively disable traction control and floor the accelerator exiting a corner, the rear will easily slide out showing natural oversteer. The tail’s outward swing is easy to control without stress. When traction control is re-enabled, it intervenes minimally, making the iX3 even more fun to drive. Corners that require easing off seem to invite more speed. Despite heavy media scrutiny, the iX3 shows no fatigue even after repeated sharp left-right cornering. BMW’s tuning has made this large electric SUV remarkably sharp and engaging, raising anticipation for the upcoming i3 electric sedan.
The most unusual and slightly frustrating aspect of the iX3’s driving feel is the large steering wheel free play and the excessive turns required at low speeds. In an era when modern cars typically need less than a full steering rotation for maximum lock, the iX3’s steering ratio feels outdated and oddly chosen by BMW engineers, forcing the driver to crank the wheel repeatedly like a taxi when making tight three-point turns in narrow alleys.
Yet what impresses most about the iX3 is its powerful drivetrain innovation and electric platform, clearly evident in test drives. The smooth stop function when releasing the accelerator feels like having a personal limousine driver gently applying brakes—a feature called ‘Limo Stop’. Using one-pedal regen braking, the car stops smoothly without nosediving, especially in B mode with stronger deceleration. This system sets the iX3 apart from all previously tested EVs, including Tesla, which offers similar but less refined systems. Impressively, even if the driver manually presses the brake pedal, the iX3’s computer subtly assists braking at the final moment to eliminate jolts that cause occupants’ heads to snap against headrests—great for passengers sensitive to abrupt stops.
All these merits owe to the intelligent Heart of Joy processing system, a supercomputer controlling everything in the iX3. This electronic brain also manages motor power and torque cutoffs. BMW claims it processes and responds ten times faster than older systems, allowing precise torque adjustments in milliseconds to stabilize the vehicle’s trajectory safely while still enabling the driver to enjoy controlled rear-end slides in corners.
The xDrive 50’s horsepower is more than ample, delivering aggressive acceleration despite the official spec of 462 hp and 644 Nm torque. It rockets from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, then smoothly reaches a top electronically limited speed of 210 km/h with satisfying immediacy.
The only slight disappointment is the synthetic acceleration sound played through cabin speakers when flooring the accelerator. Its futuristic tone lacks the depth and emotional impact of previous BMW EV soundtracks composed by renowned film music master Hans Zimmer. The iX3’s sound feels somewhat dry, especially compared to the dramatic Expressive mode sounds of earlier BMW EVs or the aggressive roar of the Hyundai Ioniq 5N, which uses synthesized sounds based on a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine.
Ultimately, BMW has produced possibly the most complete and unrivaled electric SUV in its segment. While not perfect or inexpensive, it passes every key EV criterion: ultra-fast charging, long range, meticulous engineering, and retention of BMW’s traditional driving spirit.
This final point is significant because today’s market is flooded with powerful electric SUVs, but few achieve such a balanced, harmonious package. The downside is the steep price, starting at 3,599,000 baht. The test car’s price escalates with options like the sporty M Sport kit, intelligent safety Innovation Package, and panoramic glass roof—which is unfortunately fixed and cannot open for ventilation.
Despite the hefty price, considering 3.5 million baht buys a latest-generation BMW electric SUV driving experience, it’s worth it. The precise handling is a standout. Viewing the vehicle holistically, BMW hasn’t just made a better electric X3; it has innovated to show the world that the next-generation Neue Klasse EVs won’t force buyers to compromise between range, charging speed, build quality, or driving enjoyment. This compromise-free refinement justifies the cost, making the iX3 an engineering masterpiece ideal for families seeking both performance and comfort.
BMW eDrive technology electric motor, 6th generation.
Maximum electric motor power: 345 kW (469 horsepower).
Maximum torque: 645 Newton-meters.
Electric driving range, NEDC standard: 820 kilometers.
Electric driving range, WLTP standard: 678 - 805 kilometers.
Battery type: Lithium-ion.
Maximum battery capacity: 113.4 kWh.
Top speed: 210 kilometers per hour.
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
Energy consumption, NEDC standard: 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometers.
Energy consumption, WLTP standard: 17.9 - 15.1 kWh per 100 kilometers.
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