Game-changing electric SUV takes shape in leaked drawings: 2026 BMW iX3 revealed as Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC rival but will new family SUV go EV-only or offer petrol as well like spied 3 Series sedan?

BMW’s next-generation iX3, the first vehicle expected to adopt the brand’s ‘Neue Klasse’ platform, has been revealed in leaked patent drawings.

Despite the low-resolution quality of the drawings, it’s the first un-camouflaged glimpse we’ve had at the design of what is set to be a monumental vehicle for the brand.

The leak comes as a petrol-powered prototype of the next-generation 3 Series sedan, one of six vehicles poised to share the Neue Klasse platform, was spotted testing in Munich.

As detailed by the patent drawings, the production version of the next-generation iX3 appears to mirror the striking design of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Concept, which was revealed back in September 2023.

For starters, the short overhangs and long wheelbase appear to closely match the design of the concept version. So too does the shape of the BMW twin ‘Kidney Grille’, which adopts a narrower, more vertical design over current models.

The headlights and rear taillights also take on the shape of the concept version’s sleek, contoured design, although we don’t know at this stage whether it will share the same LED light graphics.

It also looks like BMW have opted for sensibility in restoring conventional side mirrors, as well as pop-out door handles, both necessary design features for mass production.

The car’s D-pillar also looks a bit thicker than the concept versions, while its wheels aren’t as large as the concept version’s 22-inchers. This could likely just come down to the variant, though.

No further information has been spilled on the interior, nor the iX3’s powertrain, which we know will carry 800-volt architecture.

BMW says the new technology will deliver 20 per cent more energy density, as well as 30 per cent faster charging speed and more range. The brand says a 300km recharge will take just 10 minutes.

Bi-directional charging will also be standard, meaning owners can use their iX3 to partially power their homes, while household appliances can be plugged directly into the car.

A prototype version of the new iX3 was spotted undergoing winter testing last February, with the next-generation model poised for release as early as late 2025.

More recently, a prototype version of the 3 Series sedan was spied testing under heavy camouflage in the brand’s native Bavaria.

2023 BMW Neue Klasse Concept

It too shares some similarities with its Neue Klass concept, evidenced by the new headlight design, narrow roof pillars and long windows.

But it too reverts to conventional side mirrors and physical door handles.

Quad exhaust tips prove that BMW will continue to sell an internal combustion engine variant of the 3 Series for the foreseeable future, alongside an electric variant as well.

The next-generation i3 EV will adopt the same 800-volt architecture as the iX3, while the same engines are likely to carry over from the current model, which is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six.

Given tightening emission standards, we might see a return of a plug-in hybrid option, too, as was offered on the now discontinued 330e.

Nothing has been confirmed, though, and the timeline for its release is likely to be well into 2026.