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Digital renderings portray a familiar, shrunken iX3
A new CGI video and a set of unofficial illustrations have resurfaced online, suggesting the 2027 BMW iX1 will wear a design very close to the latest iX3 — essentially a scaled-down premium compact electric crossover. Shared on Instagram by designer @lars_o_saeltzer and following earlier photorealistic concepts from Kolesa, these images give the clearest hint yet of how BMW’s smallest electric crossover could look as the brand transitions into its Neue Klasse era.
Why the iX1’s future is suddenly in the spotlight
Rumors are swirling that BMW may discontinue the iX1 around its fourth year on sale, a decision tied to the automaker’s broader Neue Klasse strategy. Neue Klasse represents BMW’s next-generation product and technology architecture, and it’s reshaping how BMW plans and positions every model — from subcompact EVs to full-size luxury sedans. Even so, recent sightings of a pre-production iX1 mule (camouflaged but revealing) show BMW is preparing a visible mid-life change — whether that becomes a refreshed iX1 or a bridge to a Neue Klasse successor.
Design: borrowed cues, small-scale execution
The renderings make one thing obvious: the 2027 iX1 adopts BMW’s updated design language. Key takeaways:
- Headlights and grille closely mirror the iX3 design, but on a smaller footprint.
- Front and rear bumpers appear reworked for a sportier, more sculpted look.
- Taillight graphics are nearly identical to the iX3, while the tailgate and roof spoiler show distinct virtual edits.
From some angles it’s easy to mistake the iX1 rendering for a miniature iX3 — a sign BMW is unifying its EV family look, likely to strengthen brand identity across electric models.
New generation or comprehensive refresh?
Contrary to expectations that the iX1’s move into Neue Klasse would mean a ground-up redesign, reports point to a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh instead of a full platform change. This is unusual because the larger iX3 is fresh from the ground up, featuring updated architecture and interior tech. The working theory is BMW will keep the current EV architecture for the iX1 while applying Neue Klasse styling cues and upgraded software, bridging the model until a true Neue Klasse iX1 replacement arrives.
Powertrain and market positioning
Along with visual updates, BMW is expected to introduce modest powertrain upgrades for both the iX1 and its ICE sibling, the X1. While precise specs remain unconfirmed, industry chatter suggests improved electric range, refined battery management, and updated driving modes — incremental changes aimed at keeping the subcompact crossover competitive in an increasingly crowded EV segment.
Key market points:
- Official unveiling is likely in 2026 for the 2027 model year in the U.S.
- Pricing may be higher than the current X1 which starts at $42,800 MSRP for the xDrive28i in the U.S.
- The internal-combustion X1 will continue to live alongside the iX1, both receiving similar styling updates.
How the iX1 stacks up to rivals
If these renderings reflect the production car, BMW’s refreshed iX1 will be positioned against compact electric rivals such as the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Mercedes EQA/GLA EV derivatives, and smaller Tesla models in global markets. The emphasis appears to be on delivering recognizable BMW styling and a premium cabin experience in a smaller, urban-friendly package.
What to watch next
- Spy photos of the next mule without camo will reveal more about interior changes and sensor integration.
- Official BMW teasers and a 2026 unveiling timeline should confirm whether this is a refresh or a transitional Neue Klasse product.
- Range, charging speed, and specific powertrain upgrades will be the decisive factors for buyers weighing the iX1 against rivals.
"These renderings show BMW is standardizing its EV family look," says one industry observer. "For buyers, that means a clearer identity across models — but also the premium pricing that often comes with it."
Whether BMW calls it a refreshed iX1 or a near-term stopgap to Neue Klasse, the 2027 model appears set to blend familiar iX3 styling with modest technical improvements. For enthusiasts and shoppers, the coming year should clarify whether the iX1 is evolving or merely changing its clothes before BMW’s next big architecture rollout.
Source: autoevolution
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