BMW iX3 priced for Australia

BMW Australia has confirmed pricing and specification for the all-new iX3 with the first iteration of the fully electric mid-size SUV set to arrive locally mid-year priced from $109,900 excluding on-road costs.

Kicking off in Australia with the iX3 50 xDrive launch variant, it is the first model from BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse platform, ushering in a new era of design, electrification and digital technology for the brand.

In AWD format, it will compete with a range of alternatives including the Genesis GV70 Electric (from $132,800), Lexus RZ 450e AWD (from $121,059), and the Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4Matic (from $106,700).

For comparison, the entry level Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD is from $68,900.

Unveiled globally at the IAA Mobility show in Munich last year, the iX3 is positioned as a key milestone in BMW Group’s broader electrification strategy and introduces a range of new technologies that will underpin future models across the line-up.

At its core is the German manufacturer’s sixth-generation eDrive system, which introduces cylindrical battery cells and an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture.

The high-voltage battery offers a usable capacity of 108kWh and delivers a claimed driving range of up to 805km using the more reliable WLTP testing cycle.

Charging performance is significantly improved over previous generation electric BMWs with DC fast-charging capability of up to 400kW allowing the battery to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 21 minutes.

BMW claims the system can enable more than 350km of driving range in 10 minutes under ideal conditions.

Much slower three-phase 22kW AC charging is included as standard for the Australian market.

Powering the new iX3 50 xDrive launch model is a dual-motor electric drivetrain producing a healthy 345kW of power and 645Nm of torque with drive delivered through BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The powertrain is said to be capable of propelling the newcomer from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 210km/h.

BMW says central to the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities is its new Heart of Joy control system which integrates drivetrain and driving dynamics management through advanced software to improve responsiveness, efficiency and precision.

The architecture works alongside BMW Dynamic Performance Control to coordinate power delivery, traction and chassis behaviour.

BMW say the new generation iX3 introduces a completely redesigned electronics and software architecture incorporating four high-performance computing units, referred to internally as “superbrains”.

Each system controls a specific area of the vehicle, including driving dynamics, automated driving systems, infotainment and comfort-related functions.

Extending inside the cabin, the iX3 debuts BMW Panoramic Vision – a new display concept projecting key driving information across a wide section of the windscreen from A-pillar to A-pillar.

The system operates alongside BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive interface, powered by the new BMW Operating System X and offering expanded digital services and extensive personalisation options.

Obviously, the iX3 also introduces a new BMW design language described by the brand as “timeless, modern and reduced”.

The styling direction (some describe as “toned down”) gives a heads-up on the appearance of future Neue Klasse models as BMW transitions toward a more simplified and digitally focused design philosophy.

On the Down Under Launch model, we can expect an emphasis a high level of standard equipment while keeping optional extras relatively limited.

To that end, the iX3 50 xDrive will arrive with the M Sport Package as standard, alongside 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive driver assistance systems and a panoramic glass sunroof.

Other standard equipment includes BMW Panoramic Vision display system, BMW 3D head-up display, harman/kardon hi-fi sound system, Parking Assistant Plus, Active Cruise Control with steering and lane control assistance, Comfort Access with Digital Key Plus, heated multifunction front seats with memory, a panoramic glass roof with climate comfort glazing, and Veganza leatherette upholstery.

As expected, a comprehensive options list will be available for buyers personalise their vehicle.

For example, metallic paint finishes are priced from $2000, while BMW Individual finishes are available from $2000 to $6000 depending on specification.

Wheel sizes range from the standard 20-inch alloys through to optional 22-inch designs priced up to $7700.

An optional M Sport Package Pro is $3500 that adds features including red high-gloss M Sport brakes, M Sport seats and additional Shadowline exterior detailing.

The iX3 will join BMW Australia’s expanding electrified vehicle portfolio, which includes both fully electric models and plug-in hybrids alongside highly efficient combustion-engine vehicles.

Further variants of the new iX3 are scheduled to arrive at a later date.

2026 BMW iX3 pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on road costs.