From the next-generation 3 Series to an X5 EV; these are what the 6 BMW Neue Klass models could be
Arvind · Jan 25, 2024 09:00 AM
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The BMW Neue Klasse range embodies the German carmaker’s transition into sustainable future mobility.
At its unveiling, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse concept provided a precursor of things to come. Crucially, it hinted at the next-generation BMW 3 Series (or i3, if you will), taking an iconic model into what BMW Group envisions as an Electric, Circular, and Digital future,
Requiring the largest ever investment from BMW, the Neue Klasse range encompasses a new electric-first platform (though not limited to just EVs) with 800 V electrical architecture and 6th-generation BMW eDrive technology that highlights 30 percent more range, 25 percent higher efficiency and 30 percent faster charging.
Elsewhere Neue Klasse models will also introduce an entirely new digital and interactive iDrive system and integrate BMW’s circular economy parameters – designing more resource-efficient vehicles with recyclability in mind at the end of service life.
Thus, the Neu Klasse so-to-speak program spans beyond just a new 3 Series; BMW plans to launch no less than 6 Neue Klasse models (inclusive SUV models) within 24 months after 2025.
We may now know what those models could be. According to Automotive News, the first two models will be an SUV and a sedan in the core midsize segment.
Next-gen X5 / iX?
The next-generation BMW X5
In addition to the next-generation BMW 3 Series, the mid-size SUV model could refer to a BMW X5 or iX5 in keeping with the company's latest naming convention. Given it is one of BMW’s most important models and is about as old as the current (G20) 3 Series (having made its debut in 2018) – the second of six Neu Klasse models could be the next-generation 2026 X5.
The next-generation BMW X3
Moving a size smaller, Automotive News expects the next model to be the BMW iX3 premium compact SUV - produced in Short- and Long-Wheelbase versions, the latter for the Chinese market. First launched in 2017, which was followed by the BMW iX3 in 2018 – BMW’s first full electric SUV – the iX3 will be ripe for a replacement come 2026.
The next-generation BMW i4 and i4 Wagon/Fastback
The next model according to the report will be a coupe-styled sedan and fastback/wagon variant slated to arrive in 2026 and 2027 respectively. Having made its debut in mid-2021 and going on sale in the same year, the second-generation BWM i4 will likely make its debut towards the end of 2026, followed by the wagon/fastback model a year later.
Building the core model lineup, the all-new BMW iX1
The sixth and final model is expected to be a replacement for the iX1 compact SUV. Having only been introduced in mid-2022 with sales starting soon after, BMW’s smallest EV SUV still has some years ahead of it, thus an educated guess would estimate the replacement model towards the end of 2027 – in keeping with BMW’s projections.
To recap, the six new Neue Klasse models could be the i3/BMW 3 Series, iX5/X5, iX3/X3, i4, i4 Wagon and iX1.
Alongside the new models, new naming conventions could be employed particularly for the 3 Series EV. Check out the article below to see what it could be.
Arvind can't remember a time when he didn't wheel around a HotWheels car. This love evolved into an interest in Tamiya and RC cars and finally the real deal 1:1 scale stuff. Passion finally lead to formal training in Mechanical Engineering. Instead of the bigger picture, he obsesses with the final drive ratio and spring rates of cars and spends the weekends wondering why a Perodua Myvi is so fast.
