BMW Electric SUV Spotted Unveiled

author: FutureCar Staff    

BMW is set to revolutionize the automotive industry with its next-generation Neue Klasse electric vehicles (EVs). The first of these EVs, an X3-sized SUV, has been spotted by our spy photographers, indicating that it is ready to hit the market in 2025.

Codenamed NA5, the SUV shares similarities with the current X3 in terms of size, but it boasts a lower and sleeker appearance. The most striking feature of the SUV is its unique face, which draws inspiration from BMW's recent Vision concept cars. The front of the vehicle is adorned with wide, smooth panels that pay homage to the original Neue Klasse sedan from the 1960s. Hidden beneath the disguise are oval kidneys, a signature design element of BMW.

Possibly badged as the iX3, the SUV is scheduled to begin production in the summer of 2025. It will be the first vehicle to utilize the same platform as the Vision Neue Klasse sedan concept, which is set to replace the current 3-Series.

While specific details about the architecture and platform remain undisclosed, it is anticipated that the iX3 will be available in both single motor and dual-motor, all-wheel drive configurations. Similar to existing models, the iX3 is expected to offer different grades, such as the 40 eDrive and xDrive.

This prototype of the iX3 features blue brake calipers and relatively large wheels, suggesting that it may be an M50 or M60 model. It is likely that BMW is also developing a full M version of the iX3, which will offer even greater performance. The architecture of the vehicle has the potential to deliver an impressive one megawatt of power (1,340 hp / 1,360 PS), although it is unlikely that the street version of the iX3M will exceed half of that.

Despite the extensive camouflage, certain design elements of the iX3 can still be observed. The SUV exhibits a sportier stance compared to the current X3, with wide and muscular rear arches, as well as flush door handles. BMW's trademark Hofmeister kink in the rear quarter window is also present, albeit somewhat concealed for this road test.

What are your thoughts on the styling of the iX3? Feel free to leave a comment and share your opinion.

Images: SH Proshots

FutureCar Staff