BMW says new iX3 will be longest‑range EV in UK showrooms with 500‑mile claim

BMW says its all‑new, second‑generation iX3 will be the longest‑range electric vehicle available in UK showrooms when it goes on sale in spring 2026, claiming a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge for the all‑wheel‑drive launch model.

The company announced that the launch 50 xDrive variant will deliver 463 bhp, 645 Nm of torque and a 0–62 mph time of 4.9 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 130 mph. BMW also highlighted ultra‑rapid charging capability via 800‑volt electrical architecture and charging rates up to 400 kW; company figures for a prototype indicate the battery can gain about 231 miles of range in 10 minutes under ideal conditions. BMW has priced the UK entry model at £59,775 and said deliveries will begin on 7 March 2026, with three trim levels at launch: iX3, iX3 M Sport and M Sport Pro.

The iX3 is the first model from BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture to appear in this segment, and BMW described the vehicle as a comprehensive redesign rather than an update: it uses a new chassis, EV architecture, software stack and drivetrain. BMW says the vehicle’s software and electronics are organised around four high‑performance computers that split the car’s functions; the computer that manages propulsion, brakes, steering and safety systems is described internally as the "heart of joy." BMW has promoted these systems as central to improved driving dynamics and a platform for future software features.

BMW also flagged a rear‑wheel‑drive variant expected later in 2026 with an even larger claimed range of about 600 miles. The company framed that variant as part of an ongoing rollout of Neue Klasse derivatives rather than a simultaneous launch.

On dimensions and practicality, BMW said the iX3 measures about 4.8 metres in length and over 1.6 metres in height. Interior features include a Panoramic iDrive display aligned with the driver’s sightline, an optional 3D head‑up display, an upholstered dash and a wraparound cockpit design. The rear bench is described as offering a "sofa‑like" surface, while luggage capacity is given as 520 litres for the boot and 58 litres for the front trunk.

BMW emphasised recyclability and manufacturing emissions reductions. Company figures state that nearly one‑third of the new iX3’s materials are secondary raw materials and that the Hungarian factory producing the model operates without fossil fuels in "normal operation," resulting in a stated 34 percent lower carbon footprint compared with the previous iX3.

BMW positioned the iX3 against rivals such as Porsche’s Macan EV and Tesla’s Model Y Performance, noting that the iX3’s starting price is lower than some rivals while offering the claimed extended range and rapid charging. Independent verification of range and charging figures will depend on regulatory testing and real‑world use; BMW’s numbers reflect its internal testing and prototype results.

The iX3’s combination of extended range, high‑power charging and a new vehicle computing architecture reflects broader industry trends toward longer‑range EVs, faster charging networks and the integration of vehicle software as a differentiator. BMW’s stated plans for additional variants under the Neue Klasse umbrella indicate the manufacturer intends to extend these technologies across its lineup in the coming years.