BMW unveils iX3 with claimed 500‑mile range, aims to be UK's longest‑range EV

BMW on Tuesday unveiled the second‑generation iX3 electric SUV, saying the model will offer a claimed 500 miles of range and become the longest‑range EV on sale in U.K. showrooms when it reaches dealers in spring 2026. The German automaker said the all‑new vehicle will go on sale in Britain on March 7, 2026, with prices starting at £59,775 and three trim levels: iX3, iX3 M Sport and M Sport Pro.

The launch all‑wheel‑drive iX3 50 xDrive produces 463 brake horsepower and BMW quoted a 0‑62 mph time of 4.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. BMW described significant upgrades across the car — a new chassis, EV architecture, software and drivetrain — as part of its Neue Klasse programme.

BMW said the iX3 will use 800‑volt electrical architecture and support charging at up to 400 kW. The company reported that a prototype added about 231 miles of range in 10 minutes under its test conditions. BMW also said it will introduce a rear‑wheel‑drive variant later in 2026 with an expected range of about 600 miles.

The automaker highlighted a new high‑performance computing architecture it markets as "superbrain tech," splitting vehicle functions across four high‑speed computers. BMW said the module that governs driving systems — the electric motors, brakes, steering and safety systems — is called the "heart of joy." The cabin features a panoramic iDrive display aligned with the driver’s sightline and an optional three‑dimensional head‑up display, alongside some conventional physical controls.

The iX3 measures about 4.8 metres long and just over 1.6 metres high and embraces a minimalist exterior design with BMW's trademark kidney grille presented as an optional illuminated panel. BMW quoted a 520‑litre boot and a 58‑litre front luggage compartment.

BMW also emphasized sustainability claims for the model. The company said almost one‑third of the iX3’s materials will be secondary raw materials and that its Hungarian manufacturing plant uses no fossil fuels during normal operation. BMW estimated the new iX3 has a 34 percent smaller carbon footprint than the previous generation.

With a starting price under £60,000, BMW positioned the iX3 against premium rivals such as the Porsche Macan EV and Tesla’s recently updated Model Y Performance, noting the iX3’s quoted range and charging performance as competitive advantages. BMW framed the long‑range figures as a response to consumer concerns about range, and said subsequent variants will broaden the lineup.

BMW revealed the iX3 at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, where automakers have been showcasing electric models that emphasize range, charging speed and software integration. The company has provided detailed specifications and delivery timing for the U.K.; further technical and regulatory testing will precede customer deliveries early next year.

Independent verification of real‑world range and charging rates will depend on official type‑approval tests and independent road tests once the vehicle reaches customers and journalists. BMW’s published figures are those provided by the manufacturer and are presented here as its claims.