2026 BMW iX3 Spotted: Noyes Classe's First SUV Caught on Video

BMW has been spotted testing an electric compact crossover that appears to be part of the much-hyped Neue Classe EV family, and now video footage has been released by Car Spy Media.

Neue Classe, which means "new class" in German, will feature a next-generation EV platform that promises increased power and efficiency. The battery will be a new cylindrical cell instead of the current square cell, along with other improvements that BMW says will improve range by 30% compared to BMW's current batteries.

The first Neue Classe EV is slated to arrive in 2025, likely a 2026 model in the US. It will be a sedan in the same segment as the 3 Series and will probably be badged i3.

The sedan will be followed shortly by a crossover. This crossover is also likely to appear in the US as a 2026 model and may be badged iX3 due to its similar size to the soon-to-be-redesigned X3. Since an electric version of the current X3 is already sold abroad as the iX3, the Neue Classe version is likely to be its successor.

Four more Neue Classe EVs will follow in quick succession, but these will likely be different versions of the first sedan and crossover, including a wagon and a coupe-like crossover.

Unlike BMW's current EVs, the Neue Klasse model will feature distinct styling to distinguish it from BMW's gas engine lineup. This look was heralded by BMW's Vision Neue Klasse concept, which debuted at the 2023 Munich Motor Show and is a faithful reproduction of an early sedan.

The crossover prototype appears to have more rounded edges than the sculpted concept, but elements such as the front fender lines and the headlights integrated with the wide grille appear to have been faithfully carried over for production.According to BMW, the Neue Klasse s proportions will be different from previous models, not only for aerodynamics but also to increase interior space.

There are no interior shots, but BMW promises a heads-up display that extends to the windshield and up to Level 3 SAE-scale automatic driving assistance features. Level 3 means a vehicle that allows hands-off and eyes-off operation under certain conditions, but the driver must be prepared to regain control instantly.

The first Neue Classe EVs will be manufactured at a plant under construction in Debrecen, Hungary, starting in 2025. Neue Classe EVs will also be produced at existing BMW plants in Germany and China starting in 2026, and in San Luis Potosi, Mexico starting in 2027.

Stay tuned for updates as development progresses.