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BMW’s high-performance iX3 is already stirring the EV market
Spy photos and fresh digital renderings suggest BMW is preparing a full-on M version of the Neue Klasse iX3 — a model designed to push the Bavarian brand deeper into high-performance electric territory and square up against Tesla. While an iX3 M60 is expected to arrive around 2026, the flagship iX3 M could follow in 2027 with significantly sharper looks and much stronger performance.
What the spy shots revealed
The latest test mule, photographed in the open, shows several unmistakable upgrades compared with the standard M Sport Pack iX3. Highlights include:
- A raised hood section that hints at reconfigured packaging — possibly placing power electronics or cooling hardware where the frunk normally is.
- A more aggressive front bumper with larger intake apertures.
- Sportier side skirts, subtle fender flares and lower bumper extensions.
- Five-spoke alloy wheels and a lowered ride height indicating chassis tuning.
- Redesigned rear diffuser and likely an upgraded brake system to handle extra power.
These visual cues point to meaningful changes to both exterior aerodynamics and underlying hardware, not just cosmetic trim.
Interior upgrades expected
Insiders and the spy shots also point to a peppering of cabin upgrades. Expect:
- M-specific bucket seats and bespoke upholstery options.
- Exclusive trim choices and revised software for BMW’s pillar-to-pillar display and central screen.
- A new M-branded steering wheel and updated user interface tweaks to emphasize sportier driving modes.
A quote from the renderers at Kolesa: "We digitally removed the camo to show an aggressive look that closely matches what our spy photos suggest." Their renders give a reasonable preview of how the iX3 M might appear when BMW pulls the wraps off.
Performance and model lineup
BMW has stated the Neue Klasse platform can support up to 1,341 horsepower, but production variants will be more conservative. Current projections for the iX3 family are:
- iX3 M60: roughly 600 hp (expected ~2026)
- iX3 M: estimates range from 700 to 800 hp (possible 2027 debut)
- Potential M Competition variant: approaches around 1,000 hp for extreme performance buyers
Those outputs would put the iX3 M in direct competition with performance EVs from Tesla and other brands, trading straight-line speed for BMW’s traditional chassis balance and handling tuning.
Market positioning and context
BMW is clearly trying to broaden the Neue Klasse range to cover everything from efficient daily drivers to halo performance models. The iX3 M will be a statement: an electric SUV that aims to combine M-badged dynamics with EV technology. Against Tesla, BMW can lean on a reputation for handling and premium build quality — but it will need solid range, charging speeds and software refinements to match rivals on practicality.
Key takeaways:
- The iX3 M appears to be more than a styling pack; mechanical and thermal changes are likely.
- Expect performance variants to span 600–1,000 hp across the lineup, depending on trim.
- Interior and software tweaks will reinforce the M identity with sport seats and bespoke UI.
The next 12–24 months will reveal how BMW balances raw EV power with the driving dynamics that made M cars desirable. If the renderings are close to reality, the iX3 M will be an important new contender in the electric performance SUV segment.
Source: autoevolution
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