BMW Australia has added an all-new entry-level variant called the BMW iX3 40 in its upcoming all-electric iX3 range before the new-generation electric SUV has even arrived in local showrooms.
Priced from $89,900 (before on-road costs), the rear-wheel-drive iX3 40 (internally codenamed NA5) will arrive in Australia during the fourth quarter of 2026, giving buyers a more affordable entry point into BMW’s all-new Neue Klasse EV era.
The iX3 40 joins the more powerful BMW iX3 50 xDrive AWD, which launches locally in June 2026. Both iX3 variants share the same exterior dimensions, new 800V architecture, and digital-focused cabin layouts, but they differ in drivetrain configuration, battery size, maximum range, and overall pricing.
2026 BMW iX3 40 price and release date
| Variant | Price (before on-road costs) |
|---|---|
| 2026 BMW iX3 40 RWD (New) | $89,900 |
| 2026 BMW iX3 50 xDrive AWD | $109,900 |
Priced at $89,900 before on-road costs, the all-new BMW iX3 40 EV sits below the $90,000 mark and under Australia’s Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles. It also qualifies for Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemptions when purchased through an eligible novated lease.
The iX3 40 is $20,000 cheaper than the iX3 50 xDrive and around $10,000 less expensive than the entry-level Audi Q6 e-tron.
The iX3 40 has become BMW’s most accessible model based on its next-generation Neue Klasse electric architecture. BMW says the new variant delivers much of the same ownership experience as the flagship iX3 50 xDrive, combining long-range capability, advanced battery technology, next-generation software, and BMW’s latest digital ecosystem.
It will arrive in Australia during the fourth quarter of 2026, after the launch of the top-spec iX3 50 xDrive.
Also read: BMW iX3 is the 2026 World Car of the Year (WCOTY)
BMW iX3 40 performance details
Powering the all-new iX3 40 is BMW’s latest sixth-generation (Gen6) eDrive technology, developed specifically for the Neue Klasse platform. At its heart is a rear-axle-mounted electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) which sends power exclusively to the rear wheels.
| Specification | 2026 BMW iX3 40 |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 82.6kWh |
| Drivetrain | Single motor, RWD |
| Maximum power | 235kW |
| Maximum torque | 500Nm |
| Driving range (WLTP) | Up to 635km |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h) | 5.9s |
| Top speed | 200km/h |
| AC charging (standard) | 11kW |
| DC fast charging | Up to 300kW |
| DC fast charging (time) | 10–80% in 21 min |
The iX3 40 adopts BMW’s latest 800-volt electrical architecture, bringing major improvements in charging speed, efficiency and performance. This represents one of the biggest technological leaps in BMW’s EV development program to date.
BMW has equipped the iX3 40 with an 82.6kWh usable battery pack. The battery uses new cylindrical lithium-ion cells that deliver approximately 20% greater energy density than the brand’s previous-generation prismatic cells.
The battery structure also uses a cell-to-pack design and pack-to-body construction, helping reduce weight while improving structural efficiency. The iX3 40 offers a claimed 635km (WLTP) range. That places it among the longer-range electric SUVs in its segment.
Charging performance has received a major boost thanks to the new architecture. The iX3 40 can go from 10–80% charge in 21 minutes with DC fast charging of up to 300kW. It adds up to 300km of driving in just 10 minutes under ideal conditions.
Standard 11kW AC charging and optional 22kW AC charging are also available. The faster (22kW) AC charger can fully recharge the battery from 0–100% in approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Also read: BMW produces its 2-millionth EV globally
BMW iX3 40 exterior: Neue Klasse design arrives in Australia
(*Overseas model shown in pictures)
The iX3 40 introduces BMW’s all-new Neue Klasse design language. Its key exterior highlights and equipment include:
- Reinterpreted kidney grille
- New signature lighting elements
- Cleaner and more minimalist styling
- Acoustic protection for pedestrians
- Alarm system
- BMW Iconic Glow exterior package
- BMW Individual Frozen Ocean Wave Blue standard colour option
- Frunk or front storage
- Sun protection glazing
- Tyre repair kit Plus
- Towbar
- 20″ wheels (optional/upgradable to 21″ or 22″)
- M Sport Package (Optional)
- M Sport Brakes, Blue
- M roof spoiler in body colour
The BMW Individual Program offers many unique colour options at an additional premium.
Also read: Alpina officially becomes a sub-brand of the BMW Group
BMW iX3 40 interior: High-tech cabin
Inside, the iX3 40 showcases BMW’s latest digital interior philosophy. The centrepiece is the new BMW Panoramic iDrive system paired with the latest BMW Operating System X.
A massive display stretches almost the entire width of the dashboard, projecting information across a 42.2-inch (110cm) surface running from A-pillar to A-pillar.
BMW says the iX3 40 mirrors the specification of the more expensive iX3 50 xDrive. That means buyers choosing the cheaper model won’t be sacrificing equipment levels, despite the lower price point.
Four “Superbrains” power the 2026 BMW iX3 40
Its new software and electronics architecture has 4 central high-performance computers or “superbrains” to manage driving dynamics, automated driving systems, infotainment functions, and comfort and vehicle operations.
BMW claims the new system delivers more than 20 times the processing power of previous vehicle architectures.
Amazon Alexa and voice control
The iX3 40 also features BMW’s latest Intelligent Personal Assistant. The system supports voice interaction, touch controls, haptic controls, and Amazon Alexa+ integration.
‘Heart of Joy’ control system
This system combines BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, vehicle dynamics management, and powertrain control. BMW says it reacts up to 10 times faster than previous systems, improving precision, agility, stability and driver confidence.
BMW iX3 40 interior equipment includes:
- Ambient light
- Automatic air conditioning
- Automatic tailgate operation
- BMW 3D head-up display
- BMW Digital Premium (for 3 years)
- BMW Dynamic Performance Control
- BMW Panoramic Vision
- Control display in Free-Cut design
- Wireless charging tray
- Comfort Access system incl. Digital Key Plus
- DAB+ tuner
- Driving Assistant Plus
- Active Cruise Control
- Steering and Lane Control Assistant
- Fast charging cable (Mode 3)
- HiFi sound system by Harman Kardon
- Intelligent charging flap
- Luggage compartment separating net
- Multifunction Charger
- Multifunctional seats for driver and front passenger
- Panoramic glass sunroof with climate comfort glazing
- Parking Assistant Plus
- Electric seat adjustment with memory
- Heated driver and front passenger seats
- Sports steering wheel
- Heated steering wheel
- Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
- Veganza upholstery
The new iX3 strengthens EV portfolio in Australia
BMW now offers 11 fully electric variants across seven model lines. Six of those models currently sit below the luxury car tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles. BMW says this remains part of its broader “technology openness” strategy, offering customers a mix of EVs, hybrid technologies, and traditional combustion-powered models to suit different lifestyles and requirements.
Bottom line
With a starting price below $90,000, a claimed WLTP range of up to 635km and BMW’s latest Neue Klasse technology, the iX3 40 broadens the appeal of BMW‘s next-generation electric SUV range in Australia.
Comments
New Comment