BMW’s New Class is a milestone for Munich’s future. A primary drive within the BMW iX3 50 xDrive prototype reveals whether or not BMW’s optimism is justified.
When a brand new automotive is launched, a producer’s advertising and marketing machine runs full throttle after tens of millions of euros and numerous growth hours. BMW’s New Class has been heralded so loudly that it’s virtually tinnitus-inducing. After revealing electrical SUV and sedan research iX3 and i3 and debuting the Panoramic Imaginative and prescient infotainment at CES, BMW’s growth chief Dr Joachim Put up even known as the platform a “undertaking of the century.” Sounds grandiose—but the New Class platform is certainly foundational. By late 2027, over 40 fashions will use its expertise. A failure right here can be catastrophic.
Manufacturing begins early subsequent yr with the BMW iX3, embodying New Class purity. In contrast to Mercedes’ strategy, BMW makes use of devoted EV platforms for compact and midsize fashions. We’re in a prototype iX3 50 xDrive that includes an EESM rear motor and an ASM entrance motor. Exact figures are secret, however EESM motors vary from 200 kW to 300 kW, and ASM models from 120 kW to 180 kW. Mixed, it’s loads of energy—and stepping exhausting on the accelerator proves it. Energy supply is rear-biased, with entrance wheels partaking solely when wanted—true BMW custom and extra environment friendly.
Our prototype makes use of a full metal chassis—no adaptive dampers. “Metal is sincere,” says automobile dynamics skilled Stefan Kecht, and he’s proper. With a stable base setup, adaptive dampers merely refine reasonably than compensate. The chassis relays street really feel clearly but stays comfy. Physique pogo is minimal, and the automotive soaks up consecutive bumps effectively. Excessive torsional stiffness within the battery space means chassis and suspension should harmonize with out including weight. The iX3’s steering feels intuitive, with traction consciousness on the entrance. Even in Sport mode, return forces are agency, but not extreme as in some older BMWs.
The iX3 strikes briskly with confidence—BMW delivered on dynamics. Its brains are a brand new “Coronary heart of Pleasure” controller, managing chassis, motors, and brakes ten occasions sooner than earlier than. It syncs steering enter, wheel speeds, and applies torque and braking to the appropriate wheels immediately. Even a lane change at 130 km/h is easy. This technique is totally BMW-developed—no exterior suppliers holding IP. 4 such high-performance computer systems handle driving dynamics, infotainment, local weather, and autonomous driving.
BMW affords three regen ranges plus one‑pedal mode (“B” on the shifter). Coasting mode isn’t but obtainable. The pedal really feel is pure; brake drive is well-balanced. Full stops are easy, with seamless transition between regen and mechanical brakes.
Driver help emphasizes human management. The automotive will brake for pedestrians, navigate round partially parked automobiles, and-steer throughout hands-off freeway lane modifications as soon as blinders or glances are made. Even e-mail dictation at 130 km/h is feasible, confirming true Degree 3 autonomy.
Panoramic iDrive ditches the rotary dial in favor of voice and steering-wheel controls. Buttons present haptic suggestions, and solely related capabilities are energetic. A slim show beneath the windscreen hosts customizable widgets, at all times displaying pace and battery standing. AR head‑up show initiatives a digital 52‑inch display at seven meters distance.
