BMW iX3 Teases Its Illuminated Kidney Grilles Ahead of Debut

Ahead of its debut in Munich, the BMW iX3 shows its face for the first time.

BMW iX3 Grille Teaser Photo

Photo by: BMW

By: Massimo Grassi

Translated by: Jeff Perez

Sep 2, 2025 at 4:00pm ET

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The BMW iX3 is nearly here, ushering in a new era for the Bavarian automaker as it prepares to launch its highly anticipated Neue Klasse platform, which will underpin all of the brand's future EVs. Perhaps most importantly, though, the iX will also usher in a new design language for BMW.

While we’ve seen hints of this design evolution via the two Neue Klasse concept cars, today marks the first official reveal of the production front-end design. Or at least, a preview of which. A few frames from BMW's Instagram show the aesthetic direction for the brand’s upcoming lineup.

At the heart of this transformation is the kidney grille, now noticeably smaller—a return to BMW’s roots. Gone are the oversized grilles of recent years, replaced by a more minimal, vertical design that echoes the 1962 Neue Klasse. The headlights appear to flow naturally from the now-illuminated grille.

This new styling will be a hallmark of all future BMW models, with the iX3 leading the charge. As mentioned, though, this shift isn’t just about styling.

The new mid-size electric SUV will be the first to showcase the full potential of BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, designed specifically for battery-electric vehicles. It introduces an all-new mechanical layout focused on maximizing efficiency, while still preserving BMW's signature driving dynamics.

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So far, we know that the iX3 should have around 400 miles of range in the US, with rear- and all-wheel-drive options available, as well as a more powerful M Sport model. Inside, the SUV will debut an entirely redesigned cabin, including the first production use of the Panoramic iDrive dashboard—a futuristic interface arranged across two distinct levels.

For full details, we’ll have to wait for its official unveiling at the 2025 Munich Motor Show later this week.

New BMW iX3 Prototype

New BMW iX3 Prototype New BMW iX3 Prototype With Neue Klasse Sedan

Source: BMW