BMW has been refining its image as it prepares to launch the first models from the Neue Klasse lineup. At the annual general meeting, the manufacturer revealed two disguised prototypes for two upcoming models, providing us with the best glimpse yet. The electric SUV iX3 features production front and rear lights, while the sedan i3 still uses placeholder lights. The former will make its public debut in September at the IAA Mobility 2025 trade show in Munich, although we already have a pretty good idea of what it looks like.
The side profile reminds us of the BMW iX, with its long and wagon-like rear end that seems to create a lot of overhang. The large rear light cluster wraps around the entire back but does not create a full-width light bar.
The front of the car will stick to the concept that has been previewed, complete with the shark nose that will become a BMW signature again with the launch of the new Neue Klasse. These design elements are borrowed from the original Neue Klasse, and this is BMW’s way of visually connecting two different generations.
The iX3 SUV will be built in a new plant in Hungary, while the i3 will roll off the assembly line in Munich. There may also be a combustion version of the new iX3, which could replace the current (and still very new) G45 X3 once it reaches the end of its lifecycle.
The next-gen 3 Series will arrive quicker than the X3 with the Neue Klasse design. BMW has been seen testing the new 3 Series with its production body, and it bears a striking resemblance to the fully electric i3, although they are mechanically very different.
The new 3 Series is built on the current CLAR platform development that BMW uses for everything, from the 2 Series coupe to the 7 Series and X7. Just like the gas-powered 3 Series, the i3 will get sedan and wagon bodies, while the next 4 Series is rumored to be available only as an electric car.
Confusing? Perhaps. But ultimately, consumers get a lot of choices. And if nothing else, it illustrates how difficult it is for car manufacturers to make innovative electric cars while still catering to customers who want gasoline-powered cars because the growth of electric car sales is moving slower than anticipated.
Both electric sedans and SUVs will get hot M variants with up to four electric motors, which should deliver quite spirited handling. BMW has received a lot of criticism for the design of some of its cars in recent years, and I’m not sure if the Neue Klasse will return to its former shape for this manufacturer. The concepts previewing the i3 and iX3 were fairly well received, but there are still some quirks in their appearance, and we need to see the finished product without camouflage to get a definite opinion.
