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2026 BMW iX3: price, specs and release date in Australia
The 2026 BMW iX3 electric SUV will arrive in Australia with up to 805km range, rapid 400kW charging, innovative interior and safety features, and eye-catching looks. From pricing to features, here's what you need to know about the new BMW iX3.
Revealed to global fanfare at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, the 2026 BMW iX3 represents a major technological step forward for the premium German brand, showcasing advances in battery efficiency, digital technology, driving dynamics and sustainable manufacturing, while also debuting the next iteration of BMW’s design language and iconic kidney grille.
The 2026 BMW iX3 will land in Australia in a burgeoning premium medium SUV segment featuring the Audi Q4 e‑tron, Porsche Macan E, Lexus RZ 450e and top-spec variants of the Tesla Model Y, which is Australia’s best-selling electric car. A new Mercedes-Benz GLC medium SUV featuring battery-electric power is also on the horizon for the Australian market, joining the current petrol line-up.
The iX3 is the first model in BMW's highly anticipated 'Neue Klasse' range of electric SUVs and sedans which includes the forthcoming i3 sedan.
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The 2026 BMW iX3 is likely to arrive in Australia around mid-2026.
When does the 2026 BMW iX3 go on sale in Australia?
Production of the new iX3 begins this year at BMW's new Debrecen plant in Hungary. Production of Australian vehicles is anticipated to follow in 2026. Deliveries for customers in Australia may commence around the middle of 2026.
How much does the 2026 BMW iX3 cost in Australia?
BMW has yet to confirm Australian pricing for the 2026 iX3. Final pricing and specification for the iX3 in Australia will likely be announced closer to the model's launch.
As the 2026 BMW iX3 delivers advancements in battery and infotainment technology, it may command a premium over the outgoing iX3, which starts at $97,732 including on-road costs in Victoria.
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What is the range and performance of the 2026 BMW iX3?
The 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive unveiled at the IAA Mobility show is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 345kW and 645Nm. This specification promises sportscar-like acceleration from 0–100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
The big news with the iX3 is the increased driving range. A new 108kWh high-voltage battery with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology is claimed to deliver up to 805km of driving range on the WLTP cycle. Thanks to an 800V electrical architecture, BMW says the iX3 can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in only 21 minutes at a compatible 400kW DC fast charger, adding more than 350km of range in 10 minutes.
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The 2026 BMW iX3 can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes at a compatible 400kW DC fast charger, according to the carmaker.
BMW iX3 exterior design
The iX3 introduces the latest chapter in BMW's sometimes polarising design direction. At the front of the iX3, upright proportions are framed by vertically arranged LED headlights and an illuminated kidney grille that nods to classic BMWs. Light replaces chrome for distinctive day and night-time signatures, while flush door handles and a slim glasshouse help deliver a drag coefficient of just 0.24Cd to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, and maximise driving range.
At the rear, horizontal LED lighting and muscular wheelarches reinforce the iX3's stance. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels will be offered, with 21- and 22-inch options also available.
Nine colours will be available for the Australian-spec iX3 models, including new Polarised Grey metallic and Ocean Wave Blue metallic.
The 2026 BMW iX3 boasts a 17.9-inch central display, plus sound, light and digital display themes.
What is the 2026 BMW iX3 like inside?
Inside, the BMW iX3's cabin has been designed to feel light-filled and spacious, thanks to a panoramic glass roof with glazing. The horizontally layered cockpit also creates a wraparound effect for both driver and passengers that maximises perceived cabin width.
The eye-catching centrepiece of the BMW iX3 is the new BMW Panoramic iDrive, which integrates a 17.9-inch central display, 3D head-up display and a full-width projected interface across the lower windscreen in place of an instrument display. A minimalist design approach is balanced by tactile controls for essential functions, while ambient lighting and curated 'My Modes' themes adjust sound, light and digital displays to suit the driver’s mood.
Standard features include two-zone automatic climate control, alarm system, telephony with wireless charging, seat heating and electrically operated seat adjustment.
The 2026 BMW iX3's cabin is light-filled and spacious.
BMW iX3 boot size and storage
Practicality is strong with the new BMW iX3, with 520 litres of boot space expanding to 1750 litres with the rear seats folded, plus an additional 58 litres of 'frunk' storage under the bonnet, though this is half the size of the 2025 Tesla Model Y's frunk.
The iX3 features an automatic tailgate operation as standard, and a roof rack can be fitted as an option.
What safety and technology features are on the 2026 BMW iX3?
The iX3 debuts BMW's next-generation electronics and software platform, built around four high-performance 'superbrains' that manage driving dynamics, infotainment, automated driving and comfort systems.
Advanced driver assistance includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure and lane change warning, front collision warning and automated parking.
The 2026 BMW iX3's connectivity is a big step forward over the previous model. The BMW Operating System X offers personalisation through BMW ID profiles, smartphone-based digital keys, video streaming, gaming and over-the-air software updates. Standard smartphone integration supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the My BMW App offers remote services and real-time data.
BMW says bidirectional charging functionality is planned for local iX3s in the form of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L).
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The 2026 BMW iX3 offers 520 litres of boot storage with the rear seats in position.
2026 BMW iX3 sustainability
Production and ownership sustainability also underpins the new iX3's ethos, with BMW claiming a 34 per cent reduction in lifecycle CO2 emissions compared with the previous model.
Recycled and renewable materials feature prominently throughout the vehicle’s construction, from floor mats made of reclaimed plastics to aluminium components made from secondary raw materials.
