The spotlight at CES 2026 is firmly on BMW and its new iX3, a model that does far more than just introduce another electric SUV. As the first production car of BMW’s Neue Klasse era, the iX3 acts as a rolling preview of the technologies that will define the brand’s future, with BMW confirming that
A major talking point is the debut of BMW’s next-generation Intelligent Personal Assistant, now enhanced with Amazon Alexa+ technology. This marks the first time a carmaker has integrated Alexa+ directly into its own voice assistant, allowing for more natural, conversational interaction inside the car. Drivers and passengers can now ask several questions in a single sentence, whether that involves adjusting vehicle functions or seeking general information beyond the car itself.
The system runs on a large language model, enabling it to understand context and generate responses rather than relying on preset commands. BMW plans to begin rolling out this upgraded assistant from the second half of 2026 in Germany and the United States, across models running BMW Operating System 9 and X.
The iX3 also showcases BMW’s Panoramic iDrive with Operating System X, first revealed last year, blending digital displays with physical controls in line with the brand’s long-standing focus on keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Built on a software-defined vehicle platform, the system allows the in-car experience to evolve continuously over time.
Entertainment plays a bigger role too. When stationary, the iX3 can stream video content via the Video App powered by TiVo, joining services such as Disney+. The content library includes live, news and on-demand streaming and will continue to expand. YouTube Music will soon arrive on the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, adding to a catalogue of more than 85 apps worldwide, while Zoom video calls can now take place on the central display when parked, switching seamlessly to audio-only once the car starts moving.
Gaming is also part of the package, with AirConsole bringing titles like UNO Car Party! and the BMW-exclusive Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive to the cabin. Passengers can use their smartphones as controllers, and selected games can also be played using Bluetooth console controllers.
Under the skin, the iX3 introduces sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology. The iX3 50 xDrive uses a dual-motor setup producing 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h. BMW pairs an electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear with a new asynchronous motor at the front, improving efficiency while keeping costs in check. Compared with the previous generation, the new system cuts energy losses by 40 per cent, reduces weight by 10 per cent and lowers production costs by 20 per cent.
A completely new high-voltage battery with cylindrical cells sits at the heart of the Neue Klasse platform. With a usable capacity of 108.7 kWh, the battery enables a WLTP-rated range of up to 805 kilometres. Energy density is up by 20 per cent at cell level, while charging speeds improve by 30 per cent. The battery design integrates cells directly into the pack and uses the pack as part of the vehicle’s structure, saving weight and boosting efficiency.
Charging performance is equally impressive. Thanks to 800V architecture, the iX3 can charge at up to 400 kW, adding as much as 372 kilometres of range in just ten minutes. A 10 to 80 per cent top-up takes 21 minutes, while compatibility with both 800V and 400V DC chargers ensures flexibility.
AC charging is rated at 11 kW as standard, with a 22 kW option available. Bidirectional charging is also on the table, enabling Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid functions, turning the iX3 into anything from a mobile power source to part of a home energy system.
In North America, the iX3 will come standard with an NACS charging port, granting access to the Supercharger network, while a CCS adapter maintains compatibility with other providers.
Driving dynamics are managed by what BMW calls the “Heart of Joy”, one of four high-performance computers in the Neue Klasse electronics architecture. This unit oversees the drivetrain, braking, steering and energy recuperation, processing data up to ten times faster than conventional systems. The result is smoother power delivery, sharper responses and improved efficiency, with BMW claiming that 98 per cent of everyday braking is handled purely through regenerative braking.
Driver assistance also takes a leap forward with a new high-performance computer dedicated to automated driving and parking, offering 20 times more processing power than before. The iX3’s Symbiotic Drive system blends driver inputs seamlessly with AI-based assistance, allowing features such as adaptive cruise control and lane assistance to remain active even after light braking or steering inputs.
On motorways, the optional Highway Assistant allows hands-free driving at speeds of up to 130 km/h, with automated lane changes confirmed by a simple glance. In urban settings, the new Highway and City Assistant can stop and restart at traffic lights, with more features promised via over-the-air updates.
With its blend of advanced software, cutting-edge electric hardware and a clear vision for the future, the BMW iX3 is more than just another SUV. It is BMW’s statement of intent for the Neue Klasse era, and a clear sign of where the brand is heading next.