BMW iX3 40: The Neue Klasse electric SUV becomes more accessible
03/04/2026
At its core, the new iX3 40 stays true to BMW’s traditional philosophy.
When BMW unveiled the first models based on its revolutionary Neue Klasse platform, it was clear that the brand was preparing a major leap into the electric era. The launch of the BMW iX3 in its initial 50 xDrive configuration introduced the technology with impressive numbers: dual motors, all-wheel drive and flagship-level performance. Now, BMW is expanding the lineup with a more accessible variant.
Rear-wheel drive returns to the BMW formula
Instead of the dual-motor setup found in the iX3 50 xDrive, the new version relies on a single electric motor driving the rear wheels. That motor produces 320 hp and 500 Nm of torque, delivering performance that still feels remarkably strong for what will likely become the entry-level version of the Neue Klasse SUV.
Acceleration from 0–100 km/h takes 5.9 seconds, while top speed reaches 200 km/h. Compared with the 50 xDrive, which offers 469 hp and all-wheel drive, the difference is noticeable but far from dramatic.
In everyday driving, the iX3 40 should still feel very much like a performance-oriented BMW, something that has always been central to the brand’s identity.
A smaller battery, but still impressive range
The most significant change lies in the battery. While the iX3 50 xDrive uses a large 108.7 kWh pack, the new iX3 40 comes with a usable capacity of 82.6 kWh.
Yet thanks to BMW’s latest electric architecture, the SUV still achieves an impressive WLTP range of up to 635 kilometres. That number places the iX3 40 among the most efficient electric SUVs in its class.
Crucially, the car retains the 800-volt architecture that defines the Neue Klasse platform, one of the key technological upgrades BMW is introducing across its next generation of EVs.
Fast charging remains a key advantage
The 800-volt system enables extremely fast charging capabilities. While the iX3 50 xDrive can reach peak DC charging speeds of around 400 kW, the iX3 40 tops out at approximately 300 kW.
In practice, the difference is smaller than the numbers suggest. Thanks to the smaller battery, the new variant can still charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 21 minutes.
BMW also claims that just 10 minutes of charging can add up to 300 kilometres of range, making long-distance travel significantly easier. For AC charging, the standard 11 kW onboard charger can optionally be upgraded to a 22 kW system.
Neue Klasse technology inside
Beyond performance and charging, the iX3 40 also showcases the technological revolution BMW is introducing with Neue Klasse. Inside the cabin, the SUV features the brand’s Panoramic Vision display, projecting information across the entire width of the windshield.
The new BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is also significantly upgraded, powered by Amazon Alexa+ technology and enhanced with large language model capabilities. This allows drivers to interact with the vehicle through more natural conversations, adjusting climate settings, navigation or infotainment using simple spoken commands.
Another innovation is BMW’s new central control system known as the Heart of Joy, which manages drivetrain, braking and energy recovery systems up to ten times faster than previous architectures. Among its most intriguing features is the Soft-Stop function, designed to eliminate the subtle jerk often felt when electric vehicles come to a halt.
A key step in BMW’s electric strategy
The arrival of the iX3 40 signals BMW’s intention to scale the Neue Klasse architecture quickly. While the flagship models demonstrate the technological limits of the platform, entry-level variants like this one are essential for reaching a broader audience.
Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but it is expected to sit below the €69,900 starting price of the iX3 50 xDrive. The European market launch is currently scheduled for summer 2026.
AutoNext Take
What makes the iX3 40 particularly interesting is its positioning. Rear-wheel drive, long range and ultra-fast charging remain intact. In many ways, the iX3 40 might actually become the sweet spot of the lineup, offering most of the technological benefits of the flagship model while significantly improving affordability.
