On September 5, 2025, BMW unveiled the highly anticipated 2026 iX3, the first production model of its groundbreaking Neue Klasse platform, at the Munich Motor Show. This all-electric SUV marks a new chapter for BMW, blending cutting-edge technology, stunning design, and sustainability. For Bay Area drivers, Weatherford BMW of Berkeley is gearing up to bring this revolutionary vehicle to the roads of Berkeley, Oakland, and beyond. Here’s an in-depth look at the iX3 and why it’s a game-changer for eco-conscious drivers in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The Neue Klasse: BMW’s Vision for the Future
The Neue Klasse, named after BMW’s iconic 1960s lineup, is a bold reimagining of electric mobility. Described by BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse as “our biggest future-focused project,” it introduces a dedicated EV platform that promises unparalleled efficiency and innovation. The iX3, codenamed NA5, is the first of 40 new models and updates planned by 2027, and Weatherford BMW of Berkeley is ready to showcase this milestone to Bay Area EV enthusiasts.
Striking Design: Modern Meets Classic
The 2026 iX3 redefines BMW’s aesthetic with a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that resonates with Berkeley’s eco-conscious vibe. Moving away from oversized grilles, the iX3 features a retro-inspired vertical kidney grille with optional glowing LEDs, evoking classics like the BMW 2002. Slim vertical LED headlights and horizontal light strips create a futuristic look, perfect for standing out on Bay Area roads.
With a drag coefficient of 0.24 (down from 0.29), the iX3 boasts flush door handles, smooth surfaces, and aero-optimized wheels (20-inch standard, with 21- or 22-inch upgrades). Its dimensions—4,782 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 1,635 mm tall—offer a compact yet commanding presence, ideal for navigating Berkeley’s urban streets or cruising Highway 1. The rear sports horizontal LED taillights and a sculpted tailgate, blending style with practicality.
Power and Range: Built for Bay Area Adventures
The iX3 50 xDrive, the debut variant, features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 469 horsepower and 645 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h—perfect for quick getaways from Berkeley to Napa Valley. Its 108.7 kWh battery offers a WLTP range of 679–805 km (roughly 400–500 miles EPA), making it one of the longest-range EVs available, ideal for Bay Area road trips without range anxiety.
The iX3’s 800-volt architecture supports 400 kW DC fast charging, adding 372 km of range in 10 minutes or achieving a 10–80% charge in 21 minutes—great for quick stops at charging stations in Oakland or San Francisco. With 11 kW AC charging (22 kW optional) and bidirectional charging (Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home, Vehicle-to-Grid), the iX3 aligns with Berkeley’s sustainable ethos. BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, paired with CATL’s cylindrical battery cells (20% higher energy density, 50% recycled materials), ensures efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The “Heart of Joy”
The iX3’s “Heart of Joy” supercomputing system, with four high-performance “superbrains,” delivers 10 times the processing power of previous BMWs. This centralized architecture powers everything from the drivetrain to the 17.9-inch central touchscreen running BMW Operating System X. The Panoramic iDrive system projects a 3D head-up display, keeping Bay Area drivers informed without distraction. Features like the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Motorway & City Assistant, and Symbiotic Drive with AI-supported braking (98% regenerative) enhance the driving experience, whether commuting in Berkeley or navigating San Francisco’s hills.
The minimalist cabin, with sustainable materials, large windows, and an optional panoramic glass roof, offers a serene space for Bay Area drivers. With 520–1,750 liters of cargo space and an optional electric tow hitch (2,000 kg capacity), the iX3 is ready for everything from grocery runs to coastal camping trips.
Weatherford BMW of Berkeley: Your Neue Klasse Destination
Located in the heart of the Bay Area, Weatherford BMW of Berkeley is your go-to dealership for the 2026 iX3. Known for exceptional customer service and a deep commitment to the Berkeley community, Weatherford BMW offers personalized consultations to help you explore the iX3’s features. Whether you’re in Oakland, San Francisco, or Walnut Creek, their team is ready to guide you through BMW’s electric future. Contact Weatherford BMW today to stay updated on iX3 pre-orders and exclusive launch events. See official information and colors at https://www.bmwusa.com/vehicles/x-series/ix3/bmw-ix3.html
Global Rollout and Local Availability
Production begins in November 2025 at BMW’s Debrecen, Hungary plant, with U.S. deliveries starting in summer 2026. Weatherford BMW of Berkeley expects to welcome the iX3 to its showroom shortly after, with a starting price around $75,000 (£58,755 equivalent). A China-specific version and an entry-level variant will follow, with the iX3 set to arrive in India in 2026.
Why the iX3 Matters for the Bay Area
The 2026 BMW iX3 is more than an electric SUV—it’s a statement of innovation and sustainability, perfectly suited for the Bay Area’s forward-thinking drivers. With its class-leading range, ultra-fast charging, and advanced tech, it’s built for Berkeley’s eco-conscious streets and beyond. Visit Weatherford BMW of Berkeley to experience the Neue Klasse revolution firsthand. Stay tuned for updates as BMW redefines electric driving! Check out Doug Bolduc from Automotive News coverage. http://www.autonews.com/bmw/ane-bmw-ix3-neue-klasse-global-launch-0905/
