Abu Dhabi Motors has given media and invited guests an early drive in the BMW iX3. It is the first series-production model from BMW’s Neue Klasse platform.
What is the Neue Klasse?
BMW calls the iX3 the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production. The Neue Klasse is the company’s new vehicle generation, and BMW says Neue Klasse technology will reach 40 new models and model updates by 2027.
The iX3 also introduces sixth-generation BMW eDrive. It combines new electric motors, cylindrical battery cells and 800-volt technology. Compared with the fifth generation, BMW says energy losses fall by 40 per cent, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.
What did Abu Dhabi Motors show guests?
Abu Dhabi Motors, BMW’s importer for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, hosted the event at its reimagined Umm Al Nar facility. Media, content creators and invited guests attended ahead of the site’s grand opening later this year.
Guests had brunch, toured the new Retail.Next showroom and then took the iX3 out on test drives. That made them among the first people in Abu Dhabi to drive the car.
What technology does the iX3 bring to the cabin?
The cabin is built around BMW Panoramic iDrive. Its Panoramic Vision display projects information across the full width of the windscreen, from pillar to pillar. A free-standing central display sits next to the steering wheel. An optional 3D head-up display adds navigation graphics with spatial depth.
The system runs on the new BMW Operating System X. Meanwhile, a redesigned multifunction steering wheel is the main physical control. Its button panels give haptic feedback.
How far does it go and how fast does it charge?
BMW quotes a WLTP range of up to 805 kilometres for the iX3 50 xDrive, with a peak charging rate of 400 kW. On a suitable charger, that adds up to 371 km of range in ten minutes. A 10 to 80 per cent charge takes 21 minutes.
These are manufacturer figures from standardised testing. BMW notes that real-world range varies with temperature, driving style, equipment and battery condition.
