New Era, Neue Klasse
In BMW parlance, Neue Klasse is a moment in the company’s history that saw seismic shifts. We saw the introduction of models such as the 1500, 2002, the Bavaria, and the E9 Coupe. It was then followed up by the Series models we now know today. The company has revived that term for its next-generation models, so we’re expecting to see huge changes in the coming years.
The Neue Klasse revival has been kicked off by the iX3. No longer just an X3 with batteries to keep it going, the all-new model rides on a dedicated EV platform, and that’s just scratching the surface. Technology and design elements seen in the new EV crossover will eventually make their way to the rest of the range.
That Steering Wheel
The 2026 iX3 boasts a whole heap of innovations previously unseen in past BMWs. But, interestingly, the company is quite proud of one of the options it will soon offer in this model. That would be the white steering wheel.
As it is, the wheel is a pretty bold design with its crosshair four-spoke design. A nod to pre-war models, perhaps? Either way, it makes a statement, whether one likes it or not. There's another wheel design for the M Sport models, but even that has its own unique look with spokes on the 4 o'clock and the 8 o'clock part.
So, what's the big deal with the white wheel? According to BMW Blog, it will be an Individual option for all trims. Individual is the company's more bespoke options list, and it's open to all variants and all models. That way, it allows customers to personalize their specific vehicle.
The availability of that white wheel to all grades means buyers will no longer be forced to go straight for the top-spec model if they want that look. What's just as surprising is the fact that the M Sport steering wheel will also be an option for standard models, just like in the past. That, we agree with, and we sure hope that will be the case for the rest of BMW's lineup.
BMW
BMW iX3: Other Highlights
Steering wheels aside, what are the other noteworthy things to be seen in the iX3? Well, what you won't see is the iDrive scroll wheel, and that will be the case for future BMW models. It's touchscreens from now on, just like, er, everyone else.
Also, BMW got rid of the screen in front of the driver and replaced it with something called Panoramic Vision. Instrumentation is now at the base of the windshield and runs across the width of the dashboard. Lastly, there's the Heart of Joy central computer unit that not only handles powertrain, but also the advanced driver assists and the chassis.
The BMW iX3 is currently available in Europe, with the US set to get it in Spring 2026. So far, it's doing well in the Old Continent, even outpacing the X3 in orders in its home market.
BMW
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