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Fresh spy shots suggest a bolder, more focused iX3 M
Photos of BMW's next electric SUV prototype — internally coded ZA5 for the M model — show a curious hood treatment that could signal a very different approach from the regular iX3. Alongside a prominent central bulge, camouflage suggests openings on the bonnet that resemble vents. If real, those vents might mean BMW M is prioritizing cooling and aero over using that space as a frunk, or it could simply be clever disguise: BMW has long used elaborate camo to mislead onlookers.
What the prototype reveals
The mule rides on large black wheels shod with low-profile winter rubber, and the brake hardware is telling — blue-painted calipers up front and gray ones at the rear. A fresh rear bumper with a more pronounced diffuser is visible as well, while the front end appears broadly similar to the new iX3 50 xDrive model. BMW has already confirmed the 50 xDrive as the first powertrain for the redesigned iX3, and the M variant looks set to build on that platform.
Platform and production: Neue Klasse and Hungary
Unlike the earlier X3-derived iX3, the new electric SUV is based on BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture, an EV-first platform that supports 800-volt electrical architecture for faster charging and improved performance. Production of the iX3 M is expected to take place in Debrecen, Hungary, with series manufacture likely to begin in the second half of 2027.
Performance expectations
Given the weight of the iX3 50 xDrive, any M-badged version will need substantial power to deliver the expected performance. BMW M GmbH has been experimenting with multi-motor layouts—including twin-, tri- and even quad-motor concepts—so a range of configurations is possible. The company has reportedly tested quad-motor setups capable of more than 1,341 mechanical horsepower, though a production iX3 M will probably target figures that balance speed, thermal management and range.
For context:
- The iX3 50 xDrive is rated at 463 hp and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm).
- The petrol-powered X3 M with the Competition Package, driven by the S58 twin-turbo inline-six, makes 503 hp and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm).
Expect the iX3 M to outgun the X3 M (standard) in raw output, but energy density and curb weight will affect top speed and range. The iX3 50 xDrive is electronically limited to 130 mph (210 kph), well shy of the X3 M Competition’s 177 mph (285 kph) with the M Driver’s Package — and weight is one of the limiting factors.
Range and real-world trade-offs
High-performance electric SUVs often sacrifice range for power. While the US-market iX3 50 xDrive, due summer 2026, promises up to around 400 miles (644 km) on a full charge under optimal conditions, an M variant with higher output and more aggressive cooling will likely see reduced range. Expect BMW to tune battery management, thermal systems and aerodynamics to preserve usable range while delivering dynamic performance.
"The iX3 M looks like BMW is willing to trade some frunk space for performance-focused engineering," says one industry observer. "If those hood vents are functional, they’ll be about thermals and aero, not fashion."
Quick highlights
- Internal code: ZA5 for iX3 M (vs NA5 for other iX3s)
- Likely built on Neue Klasse with 800-volt architecture
- Production in Debrecen, Hungary; expected late 2027
- Powertrain: unknown (twin/tri/quad motor possibilities)
- iX3 50 xDrive: 463 hp / 476 lb-ft; up to ~400 miles (644 km) claimed
Whether those hood vents are real or clever camouflage, the spy shots underline BMW M’s intent to make the iX3 M a legitimate electric performance SUV. Keep an eye on thermal management solutions, drivetrain layout and real-world range figures as BMW moves toward series production.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
turbo_mk
Those hood vents look sus, is BMW camoing us again? If real, hope thermal gains beat the lost frunk space, otherwise meh
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