Proof

Electric Bmw iX3, road test of the suv that also drives itself. Prices and features

Tested in the 50xDrive version, it claims over 800 kilometres of autonomy and is capable of driving itself on motorways.

by Simonluca Pini

3 December 2025

3' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

3' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

Bmw iX3 is preparing to hit the road with a host of contents that will make it equal, if not superior, to the thermal version. Because if until now internal combustion models were superior in many respects to lithium ion versions, starting with autonomy and ease of use, today this paradigm is changing.

Bmw iX3 manages to reverse this trend thanks to the Neue Klasse platform, the starting point for all future electric models produced by the Munich-based brand. The iX3 is a software-defined car with four 'super brains' that take care of driving dynamics, infotainment, semi-automated driving and basic and comfort functions.

Bmw iX3, tutte le foto su strada
Photogallery33 foto

Bmw iX3 dimensions

Characterised by a completely new styling that we will find on future electric models, christened Neue Klasse details such as the vertical grille reminiscent of 1960s models and the dynamic lighting effects of the headlights, it displays dimensions similar to the thermal version. Length is 4,782 mm, width 1,895 mm, height 1,635 mm and wheelbase 2,897 mm.

Bmw iX3, video su strada e pista

Interior Bmw iX3

Climbing aboard the iX3 one is greeted by a completely new interior compared to the current Bmw range. The most eagerly awaited debut is the Bmw Panoramic iDrive based on the Bmw Operating System X, which results in a projection at the base of the windscreen from pillar to pillar for an overall size of 43.3 inches visible to every passenger.

Integrated with the 17.9-inch central screen and 3D head-up display, it confirms BMW's desire to minimise distractions on board by saying goodbye to a multitude of screens on the dashboard. There is plenty of space available, both for those sitting in the front and for the second row, while the containment of the seats on the versions without sports seats is not convincing. Luggage space is ample, with a capacity starting at 520 litres and expandable to 1,750 litres.

Bmw iX3, road test

Tested in the 470 hp 50 xDrive version, it is powered by a synchronous motor at the front, an asynchronous one at the rear, inverter with 800 V technology, silicon carbide semiconductors and a 108 kWh cell-to-pack battery with 805 km of Wltp range with the possibility of being recharged in direct current at 400 kW in alternating current up to 22 kW. These ranges are really achievable in everyday life, as confirmed by the 19 kWh/100 km obtained during the test. Like any self-respecting BMW, driving pleasure is a central element of the iX3. As one of the four 'super brains', the Heart of Joy takes on the task of managing the drivetrain and driving dynamics. Together with the Bmw Dynamic Performance Control, it calculates all driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision that we were able to appreciate on the road where the iX3 shows superior qualities compared to the thermal version we had the chance to test drive at length before the test drive.

Bmw iX3 autonomous driving

The importance of using a native electric and software-defined platform translates into a quantum leap on the autonomous driving front. In fact, thanks to a dedicated driver assistance system control unit capable of high processing speeds, the iX3 enters the third level of autonomous driving. Again, the car literally surprised us during the test drive with its true ability to drive completely autonomously on Spanish motorways. After setting up the system, which can only be activated on motorways, the iX3 drove without our assistance for over 30 kilometres. A possibility already active in Germany and Spain, according to BMW engineers it will also be available in Italy in 2026 thanks to the introduction of European legislation allowing its use. All this, however, in total safety because the system monitors the driver's attention and in the event of distraction (e.g. not looking at the road) interrupts automatic driving. Another novelty comes from automatic parking via smartphone, with the possibility of controlling the car from the outside quickly and safely.

Bmw IX3 price

But how much does the electric Bmw iX3 cost? The list starts at around 70,000 euros for the 50xDrive version, 73,700 euros for the MSport trim and 76,400 euros for the Msport Pro, the protagonist of our test. Deliveries starting next March.