BMW Unveils 2026 iX3 Electric SUV Ahead Of Aussie Launch

BMW has unveiled the 2026 iX3, a model which represents brands next chapter in electric vehicle innovation. Built on a ground-up EV platform, the mid-size SUV introduces BMW’s “Neue Klasse” family of high-tech models, due in Australia from mid-2026.

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A new foundation for BMW’s electric future

Unlike its predecessor, the latest iX3 is not a converted petrol car. It sits on a dedicated EV architecture, improving cabin space, efficiency, and performance. BMW’s engineers claim significant progress: dual motors delivering 345kW and 645Nm, a 0–100km/h time of 4.9 seconds, and a top speed of 210km/h.

The most striking technical feature it the is the impressive driving range. On the WLTP test cycle, the iX3 reaches 805km, 75 per cent improvement over the outgoing model. A 108kWh battery, 35 per cent larger than before, powers the SUV. Energy efficiency gains come from new motors, 40 per cent fewer energy losses, and lighter, cheaper construction.

Charging has improved significantly as well. The 800V electrical system supports up to 400kW fast charging, adding 350km of range in 10 minutes, or 10–80 per cent in 21 minutes. For everyday use, 11kW AC charging enables a full recharge in about 11 hours.

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The First BMW to Offer V2X / Bidirectional Charging

For the first time in a BMW EV, the new iX3 can act as a power bank on wheels. It supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) at up to 3.7kW, letting you run household appliances directly from the car. With the BMW Wallbox Professional (DC), it also enables Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) at up to 11kW, meaning you can power your home or even feed excess energy back into the grid.

Specs and Features at a Glance

Category	2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive (Aus spec)
Powertrain	Dual electric motors, AWD
Output	345kW / 645Nm
0–100km/h	4.9 sec
Top speed	210km/h
Battery capacity	108kWh (structural pack design)
Range (WLTP)	805km
Charging (DC)	Up to 400kW (10–80% in 21 mins)
Charging (AC)	11kW (full charge in 11 hrs)
V2L output	Up to 3.7kW
Dimensions (L/W/H)	4782 / 1895 / 1635mm
Wheelbase	2897mm
Boot capacity	520L / 1750L seats folded
Frunk storage	58L
Wheels	20-inch standard (21/22 optional)
Interior tech	43.3-inch Panoramic iDrive + 17.9-inch touchscreen
Safety & Assist	Adaptive cruise, lane-keep, exit warning, AI-based controls
Production	Hungary
Australian launch	Mid-2026 (pricing TBC)

Inside the “Neue Klasse” design shift

The iX3 also introduces a new visual identity. Slimmer kidney grilles are now illuminated, flanked by vertical LED daytime-running lights. The profile is smoother, with flush door handles and pronounced wheel arches. At the rear, redesigned taillights echo the headlight signature.

Interior design follows the same philosophy of reinvention. A 43.3-inch “Panoramic iDrive” screen stretches across the dashboard base, replacing a conventional instrument cluster. A 17.9-inch central touchscreen adds infotainment control, powered by BMW’s new “Operating System X.”

Practicality remains a focus: a 520L boot expands to 1750L with seats folded, and for the first time, BMW adds a front storage space, albeit modest at 58L. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability allows the car to power devices up to 3.7kW, useful for camping or emergency backup.

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Sustainability and software-led future

BMW highlights sustainability alongside performance. The iX3 uses recycled materials, leather-free trim options, and reduced CO2 in production. The company estimates a lower lifecycle carbon footprint than combustion rivals once the car has covered 21,500km or 17,500km if charged solely with renewable energy.

Four central “super brain” computers manage everything from infotainment to safety. This new electronics architecture reduces wiring by 30 per cent and prepares the iX3 for future AI-driven functions. Examples include adaptive cabin lighting that reacts to driver movements.

Key Points

805km WLTP range – a major leap from the previous iX3’s 460km.
400kW DC charging – among the fastest in the industry, though infrastructure is still limited in Australia.
Panoramic iDrive dashboard – BMW’s boldest interior redesign in decades.
Sustainability focus – structural batteries, reduced CO2 production, and leather-free options.
Launch in mid-2026 – pricing for Australian models to be announced closer to release.

About the author

Danny Thai

Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data. He is the founder of zecar and is currently the EV Innovation Manager at Endeavour Energy.