3 days ago
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Unearthed patent filings show what is believed to be a production version of the BMW iX3 – almost a year before you're meant to see it.
Electric Cars
Images of the 2026 BMW iX3 have emerged online from patent filings.
First reported by Dutch magazine Autoweek, the patent images submitted by BMW appear to show a production-ready version of the new-generation electric iX3 before its official unveiling.
But whereas the petrol 3 Series and electric i3 models are believed to share much of their exterior and interior styling, the iX3 will differ noticeably from the X3.
Unlike the petrol-powered X3, the electric iX3 features vertical kidney grilles – smaller versions of the controversial 'coffin grilles' seen on the M3 and M4 – though it's believed the chrome will be replaced with LED lights.
There also appears to be some kind of design element at the D-pillar – where the iconic 'Hoffmeister Kink' is located on the SUV – however it's not entirely clear whether this will merely be a badge or some kind of illumination.
Wide horizontal tail-lights are also similar to those found on the concept, as well as a three-quarter glass panoramic roof.
Underpinned by BMW's forthcoming electric 'Neue Klasse' architecture, the iX3 will use an 800-volt system with an estimated driving range between 600 and 800 kilometres, with buyers likely to have a choice of two- or all-wheel drive.
Exact specifications are to be announced at the unveiling of the BMW iX3 in the second half of 2025.
Electric Cars Guide
Ben Zachariah is an experienced writer and motoring journalist from Melbourne, having worked in the automotive industry for more than two decades. Ben began writing professionally more than 15 years ago and was previously an interstate truck driver. He completed his MBA in Finance in early 2021 and is considered an expert on classic car investment.
