BMW iX3 and iX5: This will change by fall 2026
BMW adds the 40 xDrive version to the iX3, featuring 275 kW of power and a range of up to 621 km, along with updated colors and interior options. The iX5 60 xDrive, with 425 kW of power, boasts a range of up to 850 km according to new WLTP figures and is available for ordering starting October 8th.
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BMW has unveiled the changes to its model lineup for fall 2026. For those interested in electric vehicles, two models are particularly relevant: the iX5 60 xDrive will be launched as a fully electric version of the new X5, while the iX3 receives an additional 40 xDrive powertrain option along with updated colors and interior features. Additionally, BMW is introducing new software functions and further changes to its model lineup. The manufacturer describes all technical specifications as preliminary.
BMW iX5 60 xDrive: The electric version of the new X5
The new generation of the X5, unveiled in summer 2026, will hit the market in the coming months. Along with two plug-in hybrids, it includes the iX5 60 xDrive as a battery-electric variant. The all-wheel drive system delivers 425 kW (578 horsepower).
In its latest announcement, BMW cites a combined electricity consumption of 22.5 to 19.3 kWh/100 km and an electric range of 723 to 850 kilometers for the iX5 according to WLTP standards. These figures are higher than those previously listed by BMW on the model page, which showed provisional values of 23.9 to 20.1 kWh/100 km and 645 to 845 kilometers.
The model update notice provides no information on battery or charging. According to the technical specifications on BMW’s website, the battery has an energy capacity of 141 kWh. The iX5 can be charged at up to 460 kW using direct current, with a charging time from 10% to 80% taking at least 23 minutes. With alternating current, a charging rate of up to 22 kW is possible. The iX5 60 xDrive will be available for ordering starting October 8, 2026, with production beginning in December 2026 according to BMW.
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BMW iX3: 40 xDrive version and updated specifications
The new option in the iX3 lineup is the 40 xDrive version with 275 kW (374 horsepower). BMW states that the WLTP electricity consumption ranges from 19.5 to 16.3 kWh per 100 kilometers, with a range of 515 to 621 kilometers. The announcement does not provide details on the battery size or charging capacity of this variant. According to the footnotes, the iX3 40 xDrive will be available starting in February 2027.
There are also several changes to the iX3’s equipment. Mineral White metallic is now available as a new exterior color, along with additional special paint options from the Individual program. Standard features going forward include an inductive charging pad for smartphones, referred to by BMW as Wireless Charging Ablage Plus, as well as Travel-&-Comfort adapters on the rear sides of the front seats. These can be used to attach holders or hangers for passengers in the back seat.
Those who order the optional multifunction or sports seats will now find their adjustment switches in the door trim, along with contour lighting. A new option is a black high-gloss roof rail. With the optional M Sport brakes, the geometry of the brake calipers changes, though they remain available in red or blue.
Software: BMW Maps, Drive Challenge and Prime Video
Starting in October 2026, BMW Maps will integrate vehicle navigation, the surrounding environment, and driver assistance in a single 3D display on vehicles equipped with BMW Operating System X. This allows drivers to understand how the car perceives its surroundings and which assistance functions are active. BMW utilizes sensor data, AI, as well as navigation data and mapping technology from Mapbox for this purpose. To help locate places, BMW also incorporates Google data, which provides reviews and photos of destinations among other things.
For OS X as well, BMW introduces the Drive Challenge feature. It evaluates how evenly and safely acceleration, steering, and braking are performed during driving, displaying the results on the Panoramic Vision display. This feature will be introduced gradually across different models, with evaluation capabilities in the My BMW app expected to follow by the end of 2026. Amazon Prime Video will also be available in vehicles with Operating System 9 and X in the second half of 2026.
Other changes to the model lineup
For the 7 Series and the electric i7, BMW offers eight new two-tone paint options from its Individual program. A digital rearview mirror and a seat heating system are also now available for order.
In the plug-in hybrids, the 750e xDrive with 360 kW (489 hp) and the M760e xDrive with 450 kW (612 hp) will join the new 7 Series, production of which begins in November 2026. For the new X5, the X5 50e xDrive with 360 kW (489 hp) and the X5 M60e xDrive with 450 kW (612 hp) will follow in December. The 225e xDrive Active Tourer comes standard with 17-inch wheels instead of the previous 16-inch wheels.
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