Neue Klasse iX3 orders surpass expectation

BMW says orders for its first Neue Klasse model, the iX3 electric SUV, have surpassed expectations, showing promise for a vehicle range that aims to be first in the premium segment both in Europe – and the fiercely competitive Chinese market.

Speaking with German publication Automobilwoche, head of BMW Germany Christian Ach said demand for the new models is already significantly higher than for the combustion engine X3, one of the manufacturer’s best sellers globally.

“In the first six weeks after the vehicle’s debut at the IAA in Munich, we received more than 3000 orders for the iX3,” he said.

Built at BMW’s newest facility in Debrecen, Hungary, the first iX3 models are expected to be delivered to German customers by the end of this year, with full dealership availability to follow in Europe by the first quarter of 2026.

The iX3 is the first production model to be built on BMW’s Neue Klasse (new class) vehicle architecture – a platform BMW CEO Oliver Zipse says will form the basis of 40 new or updated models by the end of 2027.

Indeed, BMW’s second Neue Klass model – an all-electric version of the 3 Series called the i3 – is nearing production at the company’s Munich plant. Series production of the i3 is expected to commence in the first half of 2026.

BMW said it hopes the Neue Klasse architecture and its broad range of new electric models will give it a boost in the ultracompetitive Chinese premium market where European manufacturers are struggling to maintain ground.

Speaking with Automotive News Europe recently, BMW sales chief Jochen Goller said, “We want to be number-one in the premium segment there”, even as an expansive range of well-priced and quality new offerings from domestic producers take an increasing share of market sales.”