BMW has unveiled its Vision Neue Klasse (New Class) X concept – and it previews the German maker’s off-roading future, especially its next compact family model.
The car giant’s given us a glimpse of the forthcoming looks and performance of the next generation of its 4x4s.
But they won’t be SUVs (sports utility vehicles), instead being dubbed Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs) with an emphasis is very much on minimalism and lightening fast computer systems, which the German outfit calls ‘super-brains’.
Production will begin next year, starting with an all new electric iX3 mid-sized family SAV. First models are expected in showrooms by the end of 2025.
The Neue Klasse X concept previews BMW’s next-generation SAVs. They will include all-wheel drive and be powered by a choice of pure-electric, hybrid, petrol, diesel and even hydrogen
The unveiled Neue Klasse X will be the family face for all future BMW SAVs – a lineup that will include all-wheel drive, pure-electric, hybrid, petrol, diesel and even hydrogen.
It follows on from the minimalist, back to basics Neue Klasse concept saloon from 2023 – the basis for the next BMW 3 Series and beyond.
BMW AG chairman Oliver Zipse said the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X ‘showcases the breadth of our future BMW model line-up’.
BMW’s created a new platform that uses ultra-fast ‘super-brain’ computer systems and promises better performance, improved efficiency and a more fun driving experience
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X (New Class) has unveiled its lifestyle off-roading future with a prototype iX3 – part of the forthcoming X range sports activity vehicles
What can you expect from an SAV?
There’s little BMW hasn’t changed with these new SAVs.
They’re more technologically advanced, performance is better, charging is faster and range has increased, and thanks to the new platform they have increased ground clearance and efficiency.
They will feature the sixth generation of the company’s eDrive electric technology.
A combination of better aerodynamics (including a 20 per cent reduction in drag), new tyre designs and and special brake system for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) will increase efficiency by up to 25 per cent.
The new tech showcased in the concept should be filtered through to the next iX3. The EV is expected to have a 30% improved range and faster charging speeds to deliver 186 miles of range in 10 minutes
And thanks to new lithium-ion battery cells with 20 per cent higher energy density, there’s a 30 per cent increase in range and up to a 30 percent in charging speeds. Your new SAV should charge 186 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
Will it fit in my garage? BMW Vision Neue Klasse X prototype
First outing: As new BMW iX3 and X3
Production Built: 2025, new ‘i-Factory’ at Debrecen in Hungary
Price: TBC but expected to be from around £65,000
Style: Sports Activity Vehicle/ 4×4
Length: 4,726mm
Width: 2,046mm
Height: 1,670mm
Wheelbase: 2,897mm
Power sources: Electric, hybrid, petrol, diesel (some markets) and hydrogen
They will also debut a new generation of high-performance computers – which BMW calls ‘super-brains’ – that form the heart of the new drive and chassis control developed in-house by BMW.
All four super-brains are designed to offer ‘a superior driving experience that is tailored to individual needs’ and work together to improve dynamic performance, precision, efficiency and fun.
One super-brain is dedicated to autonomous driving, and another to the powertrain.
Recycling is at the heart of the new X models to help reduce the carbon footprint of production, with some very interesting materials in use.
Recycled plastic, including discarded fishing nets already account for 30 per cent of the interior materials, but BMW’s also developed a completely plant-based, mineral-based and petroleum-free surface material called ‘Verdana’ for the interior. This will be used in the lower portion of the door paneling and in the centre console.
Injection-moulded parts will also use maritime plastic waste reclaimed from the sea for the first time.
The iconic – and much smaller – BMW kidney grille has returned combines with the headlights to create a welcome lighting effect for the drivers as they approach
BMW says the new generation X range will offer a pared down, minimalist design that’s spacious and open.
The trade-mark BMW kidney grille is reimagined as a three-dimensional sculpture with vertically aligned and backlit contours.
The kidney grille combines with the headlights to create a welcome lighting effect for the drivers as they approach.
The vehicle’s powerful and athletic rear includes lights that reach into the centre and are individually controlled with variable intensity to convey an expressive depth effect.
Flush glass surfaces and bright Coral Silver exterior paintwork give the vehicle a feeling of lightness.
Head of BMW group design Adrian van Hooydonk said: ‘The X models will always remain strong in character: monolithic, clean and with a very distinctive vertical interpretation of the BMW light signature.’
What’s the Vision Neue Klasse X like inside?
Driving position will be slightly elevated and the driver will be able to use an all-new widescreen version of head-up display – BMW Panoramic Vision – that projects to the ideal height of the driver
Recycled plastic, including discarded fishing nets will be used in the interior as well as BMW’s new completely plant-based, mineral-based and petroleum-free surface material called ‘Verdana’ which will feature in the doors and centre console
The X range will be focused on space and light, with the fully-electric vehicle architecture for the new iX3 and long wheelbase offering even more room inside.
It’s wider, taller and longer than the just released BMW iX2.
The large windows and panoramic glass roof give a naturally-lit relaxing interior feel that the warm recycled textiles add to nicely.
And the ambient welcome exterior lighting continues inside, with back-lighting and sound effects.
The driver should enjoy the central ‘intuitive touchscreen’s’ integration with the instrument panel, which come with BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant advanced voice control, and complimentary haptic multifunction on the steering wheel.
Driving position will be slightly elevated and the driver will be able to use an all-new widescreen version of head-up display – BMW Panoramic Vision – that projects to the ideal height of the driver.
Large windows and panoramic glass roof give a naturally-lit relaxing interior feel with an abundance of natural light flowing into the cabin
A popular feature for electric naysayers in particular, drivers can personalise the sound of the car with a simple finger tap on the steering wheel.
BMW says: ‘With this digital function, car occupants can enjoy their favourite sound on any trip.’
When can I expect to buy one?
Prices will come at a later date, but the iX3 is expected to start around £65,000.
More details will be revealed before the iX3 and X3 first models go into production, with the iX3 to be developed at a new ‘i-factory’ in Hungary from 2025.
