Conversing with your car was once akin to speaking to a brick wall, requiring memorization of specific commands. BMW aims to transform this experience. At the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the German automaker introduced an upgraded version of its vehicle that can engage in genuine conversations. The 2026 BMW iX3 is the inaugural model to feature Amazon's new Alexa+ technology, evolving the future of driving into a more intuitive and engaging experience.
This advanced system, known as the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, transcends mere command execution by leveraging a Large Language Model (LLM). This capability enables the iX3 to comprehend natural human dialogue. No longer do you need to say, "Set temperature to 28 degrees"; you can simply state, "Hey BMW, I'm a bit chilly and I'm craving pizza," and the car will adjust the seat temperature while locating a highly-rated Italian restaurant along your route. It also possesses the ability to address multiple inquiries simultaneously, allowing you to ask about the weather in the next town, check battery life, and find out the latest sports scores in one go.
The new BMW iX3 is not just equipped with superior conversational abilities; it is also an impressive piece of engineering. Part of BMW's Neue Klasse, which translates to "New Class," this SUV is built on a revolutionary architecture designed specifically for electric vehicles. The iX3 measures 4,782 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height, offering ample space for five passengers and their belongings. The trunk provides a generous 520 l of cargo space, expanding to an incredible 1,750 l when the back seats are folded down. Additionally, a convenient 58-l storage compartment under the hood, often referred to as a "frunk," is perfect for charging cables or small shopping bags.
Seated beneath the floor of the BMW iX3 is a substantial 108 kWh battery, utilizing an 800V system that enables rapid charging capabilities. When connected to a powerful 400 kW charger, the iX3 can attain approximately 350 km of range in just 10 minutes—barely enough time for a quick snack or restroom break. With a full charge, the iX3 50 xDrive model can achieve an impressive range of up to 800 km according to European standards, while American estimates remain strong at 643 km.
The BMW iX3 delivers impressive performance, featuring two electric motors with a combined output of 463 horsepower. This allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds. Despite its weight, it handles turns adeptly, courtesy of BMW's innovative "Heart of Joy" software system. This technology orchestrates the motors, brakes, and steering to ensure a smooth and exhilarating driving experience. It also incorporates sixth-generation electric motors that are 10% lighter and 40% more efficient than previous models.
Inside the cabin, the dashboard resembles a futuristic command center, featuring a prominent 45.5-cm (17.9-inch) central display. A standout feature is the BMW Panoramic Vision, a screen that runs across the entire bottom of the windshield, presenting vital information such as speed and navigation instructions directly in your line of sight. Furthermore, with the integration of Amazon's Alexa+ architecture, drivers can link their vehicle to their Amazon account, enabling music streaming from their library or managing smart home devices while on the road.
The 2026 BMW iX3 is set to arrive in the United States by summer 2026, with the 50 xDrive model expected to retail around $60,000. In Germany, it starts at €68,900. A more budget-friendly 40 xDrive variant will debut in the US in early 2027, priced under $55,000. BMW intends to roll out this AI technology across its entire lineup in the near future.
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