BMW is set to introduce a new, more affordable version of its electric SUV, the iX3 40, as part of its Neue Klasse lineup. Scheduled for release in summer 2026, this model will start at £53,250, making it £5,505 cheaper than the more powerful iX3 50 xDrive. Despite the lower price, the iX3 40 retains many of the advanced features and technology found in higher-spec versions.
The iX3 40 offers a claimed driving range of up to 395 miles on a single charge, which is slightly less than the 500 miles available in the pricier iX3 50 xDrive but still impressive within its class. Power is delivered by a single rear-mounted motor generating 320 horsepower. This setup allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph. Unlike the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system of the iX3 50 xDrive, this entry-level model uses rear-wheel drive, appealing to drivers who favor a traditional BMW driving experience.
A significant highlight of the new iX3 40 is its use of BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive system and an 800-volt electrical architecture. This enables rapid charging speeds up to 300 kW, allowing drivers to add approximately 186 miles of range in just 10 minutes on a fast DC charger. Charging from 10% to 80% takes about 21 minutes under optimal conditions. The battery packs an 82.6 kWh usable capacity and employs new cylindrical cells designed for high energy density. BMW has integrated this battery more deeply into the vehicle’s structure to reduce weight and enhance efficiency.
In terms of design, the iX3 40 closely mirrors its higher-end siblings. It features the clean and modern Neue Klasse styling with a smaller, streamlined version of BMW’s signature kidney grille and sharp detailing throughout the exterior. Inside, the cabin boasts BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive system powered by BMW Operating System X. This includes touchscreen controls, voice commands, and haptic feedback for an intuitive user experience. The vehicle also incorporates Amazon Alexa+ voice control technology through BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant, enabling more natural voice interactions and expanded access to apps and services, though this feature will initially be available only in select markets.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the iX3 benefits from BMW’s new software-driven architecture that uses four high-performance computers or “superbrains.” These provide enhanced processing power for improved vehicle dynamics and safety features. For example, BMW claims that the braking system in this model offers its smoothest stopping performance ever while also delivering sharper handling responsiveness.
For buyers in the UK and other markets, the arrival of the iX3 40 broadens access to BMW’s next-generation electric vehicles by offering premium technology at a more accessible price point. With long driving range and ultra-fast charging capabilities retained despite a lower cost, this new entry-level model positions itself competitively against other premium electric SUVs currently available.
