New BMW iX3 Debuts at CES 2026 – Alexa+ AI, 805 km Range & Cutting‑Edge Design
New BMW iX3 Debuts at CES 2026 – Alexa+ AI, 805 km Range & Cutting‑Edge Design
Image: New BMW iX3 Debuts at CES 2026 – Alexa+ AI, 805 km Range & Cutting‑Edge Design – Performance Comparison and Specifications
The BMW iX3 finally stepped onto the global stage at CES 2026, and it didn’t just arrive – it arrived smarter, farther, and more stylish than ever before. BMW’s newest electric SUV blends the brand’s legendary driving dynamics with a next‑generation personal assistant powered by Amazon Alexa+ AI, while boasting an eye‑popping 805 km (WLTP) range. For Indian enthusiasts, the buzz is louder than ever: the launch could be just around the corner. Let’s dive into why the new iX3 is turning heads, how it stacks up against rivals, and what it means for the future of EVs.
Why CES 2026 Was the Perfect Launchpad
CES has become the tech world’s showcase, and BMW chose it wisely. By unveiling the iX3 on the same stage as the latest AI breakthroughs, the German automaker highlighted two things:
- Its commitment to connected mobility – the vehicle is as much a computer as a car.
- The Neue Klasse architecture, which underpins all upcoming BMW EVs, from compact hatchbacks to full‑size sedans.
According to GaadiWaadi.com, the iX3 is the first production model built on this platform, serving as a “rolling technology demonstrator” for the brand’s electrified future.
Design & Dimensions
| Dimension | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,735 mm | Longer than the previous iX3 by 30 mm |
| Width | 1,891 mm | Wider shoulder line for a bolder stance |
| Height | 1,666 mm | Sleeker roofline improves aerodynamics |
| Wheelbase | 2,970 mm | Provides extra rear‑legroom |
| Ground clearance | 180 mm | Adjustable air suspension on select trims |
The new silhouette retains the classic BMW kidney grille—now fully closed for better efficiency—while integrating a laser‑etched light signature that runs the full length of the vehicle. Inside, a 14.9‑inch curved display dominates the cockpit, paired with a digital instrument cluster that can be customised via the Alexa+ AI voice command.
Powertrain & 805 km Range – What the Numbers Mean
| Spec | Value | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 84 kWh (li‑ion) | Higher usable capacity than previous iX3 |
| Motor Power | 282 hp (210 kW) | Instant torque, 0‑100 km/h in 6.5 s |
| Torque | 460 Nm | Strong pull for overtaking |
| WLTP Range | 805 km | One of the longest ranges in the compact EV SUV segment |
| Fast‑Charge | 10‑80 % in 31 min (200 kW) | Ideal for highway pit‑stops |
Achieving 805 km isn’t just about a bigger battery; BMW refined the vehicle’s aerodynamics (Cd 0.26) and introduced a new thermal management system that keeps the pack at optimal temperature, even in scorching Indian summers.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
| Model | Range (WLTP) | Power (hp) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX3 (2026) | 805 km | 282 | 58,900 |
| Audi Q4 e‑tron | 540 km | 265 | 52,000 |
| Tesla Model Y | 530 km | 384 | 55,000 |
| Mercedes‑EQ B300 | 480 km | 225 | 50,500 |
Even with a modest power output, the iX3’s efficiency gives it a decisive edge in range‑focused markets like India, where charging infrastructure is still maturing.
Alexa+ AI – The Personal Assistant You’ve Been Waiting For
BMW’s partnership with Amazon has produced Alexa+ AI, an in‑car assistant that goes beyond simple voice commands. Here’s what makes it special:
- Context‑aware suggestions: The system learns your daily commute, preferred climate settings, and even your favourite playlists.
- Proactive alerts: If traffic ahead slows down, Alexa+ will suggest an alternate route and pre‑condition the cabin.
- Smart home integration: Turn on your home lights, set the thermostat, or check the fridge inventory—all from the driver’s seat.
During the CES demo, a presenter asked Alexa+ to “find a vegan restaurant within 5 km and pre‑heat the cabin to 22 °C.” The assistant complied instantly, showcasing a seamless blend of navigation, climate control, and lifestyle services.
ADAS, Safety & Driving Dynamics
The new iX3 isn’t just smart on the infotainment side; it’s equipped with a full suite of Advanced Driver‑Assistance Systems (ADAS) that bring it closer to Level 3 autonomy:
- Active Cruise Control with Stop‑and‑Go
- Lane‑Keeping Assist with Steering Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection
- Parking Assistant Plus – 360° cameras and ultrasonic sensors for tight city parking.
All sensors feed a central AI processor that continuously refines driving behaviour, learning from each kilometre traveled.
Pricing, Availability & Indian Launch Outlook
| Region | Starting MSRP | Expected Launch |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $58,900 | Q4 2026 |
| Europe | €59,500 | Q4 2026 |
| India (estimated) | ₹56 lakhs | Early 2027 |
| China | CNY 399,900 | Q4 2026 |
While BMW has not announced an official Indian price, analysts predict a starting figure around ₹56 lakhs, positioning the iX3 between the Tesla Model Y and the Audi Q4 e‑tron. Import duties, GST, and the premium for the Alexa+ AI suite could push the final on‑road price slightly higher.
What This Means for the Future of BMW EVs
Launching the iX3 on the Neue Klasse platform signals a strategic shift:
- All upcoming BMW EVs will share a modular battery‑pack architecture, reducing production costs.
- The integration of Alexa+ AI shows that software will be a key differentiator, not just battery size.
- By hitting a >800 km range in a compact SUV, BMW sets a new benchmark for practicality without compromising luxury.
For Indian consumers, the iX3 could be the first truly long‑range EV that feels familiar – a BMW that talks, thinks, and drives like the brand’s gasoline‑powered siblings.
FAQ – New BMW iX3 CES 2026
- 1. What is the official WLTP range of the new iX3?
- 805 km, making it one of the longest‑range compact EV SUVs on the market.
- 2. How does Alexa+ AI differ from the regular Alexa in cars?
- Alexa+ AI is tightly integrated with BMW’s vehicle systems, offering context‑aware climate control, navigation, and smart‑home commands, plus predictive suggestions based on driving patterns.
- 3. Is the iX3 equipped with a turbo‑petrol engine?
- No. The iX3 is a fully electric SUV; the turbo‑petrol reference applies to BMW’s conventional ICE models, not this EV.
- 4. Which ADAS features are standard?
- Active Cruise Control, Lane‑Keeping Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Parking Assistant Plus are standard across all trims.
- 5. When will the iX3 arrive in India?
- Industry insiders expect an early 2027 launch, pending final pricing and homologation.
- 6. Can I fast‑charge the iX3 on a 50 kW charger?
- Yes, but charging speed will be limited; to achieve 10‑80 % in 31 minutes you need a 200 kW DC fast‑charger.
- 7. Does the iX3 support over‑the‑air (OTA) updates?
- Absolutely. Both the infotainment system and the vehicle’s firmware receive regular OTA updates.
- 8. What is the cargo space compared to the previous iX3?
- The new iX3 offers 510 L of boot space (up from 470 L) thanks to the redesigned rear hatch.
- 9. Is there a performance‑oriented trim?
- BMW announced an “iX3 M‑Sport” package that adds sport‑tuned suspension, unique exterior accents, and a 5‑year battery warranty.
- 10. How does the iX3’s price compare to the Tesla Model Y in India?
- While the Model Y is expected around ₹53 lakhs, the iX3’s premium features and Alexa+ AI place it slightly higher, roughly ₹56‑58 lakhs.
For the latest updates and in‑depth reviews, keep an eye on GaadiWaadi.com. The new BMW iX3 isn’t just an EV – it’s a glimpse into a future where your car is a true digital companion.
