BMW announces a more affordable version of the iX3 with rear-wheel drive

BMW is set to expand the range of its first model of the Neue Klasse, adding a new rear-wheel-drive version under the name iX3 40. It is a more affordable alternative to the iX3 50 xDrive we already know. In Germany, its starting price is set at 63,400 euros, a saving of 7,500 euros compared with the iX3 50 xDrive, which recently reached the market with a base price of 70,900 euros.

The Bavarian manufacturer has wanted to highlight the outstanding performance of this new version, which features a single electric motor delivering 235 kW of power on the rear axle and 500 Nm of torque. BMW states that with this configuration it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with its top speed limited to 200 km/h. Equipped with a battery pack of 82.6 kWh capacity, the Bavarian firm promises a WLTP range of 635 km on a single charge.

The iX3 40 is part of the new generation of BMW electric vehicles based on the Neue Klasse platform, which stands out for its 800-volt architecture and high efficiency. BMW has chosen to integrate cylindrical cells into the battery pack, which has delivered a 20 percent increase in energy density compared with the prismatic cells used in the brand’s earlier models. It also features a cell-to-pack design that further optimises the use of space.

A true distance eater

When charging with direct current, the iX3 40 supports a maximum power of 300 kW, allowing it to raise the state of charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 21 minutes. It also comes as standard with 11 kW alternating-current charging, with the option of a 22 kW onboard charger that includes bidirectional charging for V2L Vehicle-to-Load and V2H Vehicle-to-Home.

As for its design, the iX3 40 is practically identical to the iX3 50 xDrive, retaining the minimalist and modern styling characteristic of the Neue Klasse. The standard equipment is also equivalent.

All iX3 models are produced at BMW’s new plant in the Hungarian town of Debrecen, where series production began last October. The rear-wheel-drive version will be available from this coming summer of 2026.

BMW is confident that the new iX3 40 will be a success, given the warm reception the iX3 50 xDrive has received and the fact that it is somewhat more affordable than the latter. Demand for the iX3 50 xDrive has exceeded the manufacturer’s expectations and, to date, practically all production planned for 2026 is already reserved. To meet the high demand, the company has already planned a new production shift at the Debrecen plant.

Technical specifications of this car

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