Tesla sold 63% fewer cars in Canada last year than it did in 2024, which can be explained by multiple factors.
The automaker sold about 20,000 vehicles in Canada last year, down from about 55,000 in 2024.
This has allowed General Motors to take the EV sales crown in the country.
A shift away from EVs, the U.S-Canada trade war, and political motives have all contributed to this slump.
Amid a slowdown in electric vehicle sales in Canada, Tesla has been hit particularly hard, its sales dropping by more than 60% in 2025 over 2024.
Indeed, estimates from DesRosier Automotive Consultants and the Automotive News Research and Data Center suggest a reduction in the brand’s Canadian sales of around 63.5% year over year.
While Tesla doesn’t release its sales figures by country, these estimates show the company sold about 20,000 vehicles in Canada in 2025, down from close to 55,000 the year prior.
This can be explained in part by the cancellation of the $5,000 federal EV incentive and the sharp reduction of the Quebec provincial incentive back in January 2025, which contributed to a significant decline in the sales of all electric vehicles in the country.
In fact, Statistics Canada shows EV sales dropped 43% over the first three quarters of the year, the latest period for which data is available.
Obviously, there are other factors that have impacted Tesla’s sales enough to explain why its decline has been much more significant than the industry’s average.
This is made even more evident when considering that other EV-only automakers actually saw their sales increase over the same period, including Rivian, Lucid Motors, Polestar, and VinFast.
One of those factors is the Canada-U.S. trade war, which saw Ottawa impose 25% counter tariffs on U.S.-made vehicles that don’t comply with CUSMA in reaction to the Trump administration’s blanket tariffs.
Since most Tesla vehicles sold in Canada up to the middle of last year were manufactured in the United States, including the brand’s most popular Model Y compact crossover, this measure had a large impact on pricing.
Indeed, Tesla passed on the tariff costs to its buyers in Canada, which is why the price of the entry-level Model Y Premium suddenly went from $64,990 to $84,990.
In addition, the political involvement of the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, with the Trump Administration has turned off a lot of would-be buyers, especially since both the U.S. president and Musk himself began threatening Canada’s sovereignty early in 2025.
In fact, Tesla had to pull out of last year’s Vancouver auto show due to fears of violence and vandalism from protesters.
Later in the year, Tesla shifted its supply chain to source Model Y units for the Canadian market from Germany, circumventing Ottawa’s counter tariffs.
Combined with the addition of a new, stripped-down Standard trim level that brings the starting price of the Model Y down to $49,990, this should help improve Tesla’s sales in Canada, but it is too early to tell what sort of effect this will have.
In the meantime, General Motors took the top spot in electric vehicle sales in the country, thanks to its broad lineup of EVs that runs from the mass-market Chevrolet Equinox EV to the luxurious Cadillac Escalade IQ and the rugged GMC Hummer EV.
GM said it has sold 24,502 electric vehicles in Canada in 2025, which is a 22.1% decline from its 2024 figure of 31,460 that was driven by a rush in the last month from buyers who wanted to benefit from the higher provincial and federal incentives. Nevertheless, this reduction is about half that of the entire industry, and 40% less drastic than that of Tesla.
A Life-Size LEGO McLaren P1 Astonishes Attendees at the 2025 Canadian International Auto Show
The LEGO Technic McLaren P1 is a 1:1 scale replica featuring over 342,817 LEGO elements.
The model weighs 1,220 kg and includes fully functional steering.
Developed by 23 LEGO specialists in collaboration with McLaren Automotive over 8,344 hours.
The 2025 Canadian International Auto Show hosts the North American debut of the life-size LEGO Technic McLaren P1, an engineering marvel that blurs the lines between creativity and automotive excellence.
Built using 342,817 LEGO Technic pieces, the life-size McLaren P1 replicates the real hypercar’s aerodynamic design while incorporating fully functional steering.
A team of 23 LEGO experts and McLaren engineers spent over 8,344 hours meticulously assembling the structure, making it one of the most ambitious LEGO automotive builds ever created.
Displayed alongside the actual McLaren P1 hypercar, this LEGO Technic model demonstrates the convergence of automotive design, engineering, and creative expression.
Subaru is unveiling a model every driving enthusiast dreams of seeing back on public roads: the WRX STi. Subaru has indeed revealed one, but only in prototype form. In reality, if Subaru decides to put it into production, all that remains is to press “Go.”
The revealed Subaru WRX STi is only a prototype
It comes with the same 271-horsepower / 258 lb-ft of torque engine as the WRX
Subaru’s website says “Coming Soon”
Subaru knows exactly how to make us impatient. The automaker has been teasing the internet with drip-fed information and images surrounding the “return” of the legendary WRX STi. Subaru had loudly promised a major announcement at the Tokyo Motor Show regarding the model. So when the car was finally revealed, the word “Prototype” attached to it made it clear that the vehicle is not heading to dealerships anytime soon—at least not immediately.
A WRX with red lips
What we’re seeing, then, is the Subaru WRX STi Sport # Prototype 2026, designed as a preview of a possible STi comeback. Without straying too far from the standard WRX, the car adopts a theme dear to the performance division, highlighted by red accents. It also rides on wheels fitted with Bridgestone Potenza tires. Inside the wheel wells, the brake calipers are painted bronze. Otherwise, the design retains the familiar WRX cues, including the large hood scoop and the extensive use of matte black plastic serving as lower body and bumper protection.
Deception under the hood, for now
Mechanically, the prototype is equipped with the same 2.4-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine. That said, there is some disappointment, as output remains unchanged compared to the WRX. The previous generation, which ended production in 2021, delivered 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. With this prototype, Subaru sticks to the same 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque as the regular WRX. One can still hope for a pleasant surprise in terms of increased power when a production version eventually arrives.
Return of the stick
If mechanical changes are nonexistent and this appears largely to be a styling exercise, there is one key element Subaru brings back: a manual transmission. For this reason alone, brand purists will be pleased.
“Coming Soon”
For now, these are the only details Subaru is sharing about the WRX STi. One thing, however, stands out—the mention of “Coming Soon.” This strongly suggests that the WRX STi could make its return for the 2027 model year.
Mazda is adding the Mazda6e electric sedan and the CX-6e electric SUV to its European linueup, both of which have been developped jointly with Chinese Changan Automobile Co.
These are versions of the EZ-60 and EZ-6 unveiled in China two years ago, adapted for Europe.
These models are designed in collaboration with the Chinese manufacturer Changan Automobile Co.
Mazda announces a range of approximately 410 km to about 473 km for the sedan, and 414 km for the SUV.
Nearly two years after launching the EZ-6 and EZ-60 in China, Mazda unveils the European version of this electric sedan and SUV at the Brussels Motor Show.
Called the Mazda6e and CX-6e, these models will extend the manufacturer’s lineup, which currently counts 8 models in France.
Indeed, both this SUV and the sedan are the result of a collaboration with Changan Automobile Co, a Chinese manufacturer with whom Mazda has maintained commercial relations for about 20 years.
Both electric vehicles use a platform developed by Changan Automobile Co, which allows Mazda to offer competitive EVs without having had to develop their powertrains on its own.
The Japanese manufacturer is quick to point out, however, that the design, assembly quality, and driving dynamics are of its own making.
In fact, Mazda has reworked the braking system and handling so that they offer a linear response to the driver’s inputs, reinforcing the feeling of being one with the car.
The company also indicates that the “joy of driving” remains the guiding principle of its philosophy, which should reassure those who fear the arrival of electric vehicles in its lineup.
The interior technology comes from Changan, with intelligent functions such as voice, touch, and gesture controls, in addition to driver assistance and collision mitigation systems.
Technically speaking, the European version of the Mazda6e will have an overall length of 4,921 mm, a width of 1,890 mm, a height of 1,491 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,895 mm.
This means that this model is 56 mm longer, 51 mm wider, and 41 mm higher than the last Mazda 6 we knew in Canada.
For its part, the CX-6e is 4,850 mm long, 1,940 mm wide, and 1 620 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,900 mm. This places it between the new CX-5 and the CX-70 in terms of sizing.
Two battery choices will be offered in Europe for the Mazda6e, with a 68.8 kWh unit as well as an 80 kWh one.
The former should allow a range of approximately 410 km (479 km WLTP) while the latter should make a range of approximately 473 km (552 km WLTP) possible.
Only a single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration is offered, generating 258 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque.
This should be sufficient for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h.
Fast charging from 10 to 80% should take about 24 minutes with the smaller battery and 47 minutes with the larger one
Curiously, choosing the 80 kWh battery reduces power to 245 horsepower and increases the acceleration time to 7.8 seconds.
For the moment, there are no all-wheel-drive versions offered in Europe or China, which is also the case for the CX-6e SUV.
Speaking of which, this model is only available with a 78 kWh battery that allows a range of about 414 km (483 km WLTP). Charging should take around 24 minutes to go from 10 to 80% thanks to a 195-kW max charging rate.
The output of this SUV is rated at 258 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque, making for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint of 7.9 seconds.
On the French market, two equipment levels are offered for both models, at prices of 42,900 euros (approx. 69,315 Canadian dollars) and 44,900 euros (approx. 72,546 Canadian dollars) for the sedan and 46,800 euros (approx. $75,616 CAD) and 49,800 euros (approx. $80,463 CAD) for the SUV.
Selecting the larger battery adds 1,600 euros (approx. $2,585 CAD) to the bill in both of the sedan’s trim levels.
Although Mazda currently offers no electric models in North America, it is unlikely that we will get to know the Mazda6e and CX-6e anytime soon, since their Chinese production exposes them to substantial tariffs in both Canada and the United States.
Concierge-led program offers 160+ paint colours and millions of interior combinations for 2026 model.
Curated program debuts exclusively on the 2026 CT5-V Blackwing
Over 160 hand-painted exterior colour options available
Production begins mid-2026 at Warren Artisan Center
Cadillac has introduced “Curated by Cadillac,” an exclusive customization program debuting on the 2026 CT5-V Blackwing. The concierge-led service offers select clients access to extensive personalization options, including more than 160 exterior colours and millions of interior material combinations.
“Curated by Cadillac embodies our commitment to delivering an elevated level of customization,” said John Roth, vice president of Global Cadillac. “Drawing upon experience from the ultra-luxury, hand-built CELESTIQ, we are now delivering our CT5-V Blackwing customers an opportunity to create a vehicle that is as unique as their own story.”
160+ Exterior Colours and Custom Interior Options
The program expands personalization well beyond standard factory offerings through artisan-applied finishes and premium materials:
Exterior palette: More than 160 colour options, including high-gloss and frost finishes, each hand-painted by skilled artisans
Interior customization: Extensive selection of colours and materials available in millions of different combinations
Concierge experience: Dedicated design specialists with backgrounds spanning fashion, entertainment, fine arts, and luxury home design work directly with clients and dealers
Each concierge brings professional design experience, from collaborating with renowned artists and brands to creating luxury interior environments. The personalized consultation process draws from techniques developed for the CELESTIQ ultra-luxury model.
Despite extensive customization options, the Curated CT5-V Blackwing retains the model’s established performance specifications:
Engine: 6.2-litre supercharged V-8
Power output: 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque
Transmission options: Six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
Production location: Hand-built at the Artisan Centre in Warren, Michigan
The program will serve customers in both the United States and Canada, with production scheduled to begin in mid-2026. Canadian pricing details have not been announced.
A Curated by Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing featuring Deep Amethyst Metallic exterior paint and a Morello Red, Adrenaline Red, and Jet Black interior will be displayed at Concours Village, A Motorsports Gathering in Pebble Beach, California from August 14-15, 2025, during the Monterey Car Week.
The launch follows similar programs from German luxury manufacturers, including BMW Individual, Mercedes-Benz Designo, and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, which have found strong customer demand for personalized vehicles. Cadillac’s entry into this market expands the company’s bespoke manufacturing capabilities beyond the flagship CELESTIQ, bringing artisan-level customization to the high-performance V-Series lineup.
The updated sports car gets aerodynamic styling and the new NISMO MT variant
2027 Nissan Z revealed at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 with summer 2026 Japan release
NISMO MT brings first manual transmission option to the track-focused Z NISMO grade
Canadian and North American availability has not been announced
Nissan revealed the refreshed 2027 Fairlady Z at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, sporting aerodynamic styling updates and the first-ever manual transmission option for the Z NISMO grade. The updated sports car is scheduled for release in Japan in summer 2026, though North American availability has not been confirmed.
The biggest update for the 2027 Z is the introduction of the NISMO MT, a new variant that brings a manual transmission to the NISMO grade for the first time. Since its introduction for the 2024 model year, the Z NISMO has been available exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission tuned for track performance.
The current Z Sport and Performance grades offer buyers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission with an EXEDY high-performance clutch and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The NISMO grade, however, required buyers seeking the 420-horsepower output and track-focused suspension tuning to accept automatic-only operation. The NISMO MT addresses that gap for enthusiasts who prefer three pedals.
Nissan states the refreshed Z features new design styling to increase aerodynamic performance. The automaker has not released specific details regarding the extent of exterior changes or their measured aerodynamic benefits.
The current Z NISMO already incorporates aerodynamic enhancements over standard grades, including a “Grand-Nose” front-end treatment, wider rear spoiler, front canards and reshaped rear bumper corners. The 2027 refresh builds upon these NISMO add-ons.
Nissan has not announced whether the refreshed 2027 Z will be offered in Canada or elsewhere in North America. The current seventh-generation Z launched in Canada as a 2023 model and has been carried over through the 2025 model year without significant changes. The Z NISMO joined the lineup for 2024 and continued into 2025.
No 2026 model year is planned for the Z in Canada. Whether Nissan Canada will skip the 2026 model year and go directly to the 2027 model year with the refreshed version remains unknown at this time.
The existing Z uses a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine good for 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque in Sport and Performance grades. The NISMO grade increases output to 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Nissan has not confirmed whether the 2027 refresh includes powertrain changes.
On the list of services and items whose costs have exploded in recent years, you can add visits to mechanical workshops. At the dealerships, the hourly rate is no longer just high; it sometimes reaches the stratosphere.
Maintenance costs are already very high across the industry
Mercedes-Benz wants to reduce repair costs for its models
Specialized garages don’t always have access to diagnostic tools
So much so that a simple visit for minor maintenance or a small repair can result in a bill of several hundred dollars.
That’s why a growing number of consumers are turning to specialized mechanics, independent garages that can perform certain repairs. Let’s be clear, nothing is cheap there either, but comparison is consoling; it costs less than going to the dealership.
The latter, of course, wants to see you more often, just as the manufacturer prefers to sell its original parts rather than see its vehicles receive aftermarket ones.
But independent shops can’t do everything.
Thus, all strategies are good to keep you at the dealership workshop. Often, it’s simply necessary to connect your car to a specialized machine to obtain a specific code indicating the needed repair.
But now at BMW, they’re exploring another way. According to recently published patent documents, at least that’s the takeaway from a screw concept that could only be tightened or loosened using a BMW-specific tool.
It’s going too far.
What we see is a head featuring the BMW logo, with two of its quadrants hollowed out to accommodate a specialized tool. The letters BMW are even visible on the head. We admit it, it’s beautiful, but as for the practical side of things, we’ll pass.
In fact, this could suggest the manufacturer’s intentions, and that’s what’s more troubling.
Fortunately, we’re only at the patent stage, and not all such concepts necessarily end up on models. For now, note that the screws are for structural use, such as seat mountings or specific body parts. Nevertheless, it can open the door, and that’s what’s worrying, especially since the patent is clear about one thing: “preventing loosening or tightening using generic tools by unauthorized persons.”
Ultimately, if implemented as described, this might lead to higher maintenance costs.
The irony is that Mercedes-Benz recently declared the opposite, essentially wanting to make its vehicles easier to repair.
Let’s hope this philosophy prevails and forces direct competitors, like BMW, to rethink theirs.
After all, everything is already expensive enough.
And let’s be clear. We are not accusing BMW of any intentions at this point. We are just pointing out something of concern. And it’s been done before, and not only in the auto industry.
Now owned entirely by BMW, Alpina becomes the newest division of the automaker.
The Alpina brand is now fully owned by BMW, after a purchase process that started in 2022.
Alpina-branded vehicles aim to combine performance, luxury, and comfort.
This new brand will likely compete against Mercedes-Maybach.
At the end of a process that started back in 2022, BMW is now the sole owner of the Alpina brand which has been applied to its most luxurious and powerful models since the 1960s.
Originally an external tuner that worked closely with the Bavarian automaker to develop exclusive versions of some of its models, Alpina will now become an in-house division of the BMW Group, similarly to how Maybach was integrated into the Mercedes-Benz brand about ten years ago.
Now called BMW Alpina, the brand will continue to be applied to the most powerful and most luxurious versions of various BMW models such as the X7 and the 7 Series sedan.
Alpina was founded in 1965 by Burkard Bovensiepen, and has been owned by the Bovensiepen family since then.
The automaker says it is conscious of the responsibility it has in keeping the history and tradition of the Alpina name alive, which means we can expect few big changes in how the division operates and what its products stand for, at least for now.
One change that has been confirmed is the addition of a new wordmark logo positioned centrally at the rear of the vehicle. Reading as BMW ALPINA, this new brandmark is said to underline the distinctive character of the division as well as its position within the BMW Group.
The automaker also says the logo, which is inspired by Alpina’s wordmark from the 1970s, “radiates clarity, calm, and confidence”.
BMW says Alpina will continue to offer a wide range of bespoke personalisation options for buyers who want a unique luxury vehicle that also has “hallmark” driving characteristics.
The automaker further claims that “ Each [BMW Alpina] vehicle will be an exclusive object for connoisseurs in pursuit of the extraordinary, without compromises on performance, comfort and individuality”.
To signify the change in ownership, the first activities of the newest BMW Group division will be focussed on brand activation, which means media campaigns and possibly prototype vehicles.
Hypercar combines bespoke craftsmanship, exclusive ownership experience, and Rimac’s highest-performing EV to date.
Only 10 Nevera R Founder’s Edition units were created, each tailored to its owner’s specifications.
Ownership includes direct involvement in Rimac events, R&D, and strategic sessions with executives.
The Nevera R delivers 2,107 hp, reaches 431.45 km/h and set 24 records in 2025.
Rimac has unveiled the Nevera R Founder’s Edition, a firmly limited version of its high-performance electric hypercar. Only 10 units have been produced, each individually configured and allocated to select owners.
Each vehicle comes with an experience greater than just the car itself. Owners begin their journey with a one-on-one configuration session at Rimac’s headquarters in Zagreb, Croatia. The design process includes direct involvement from CEO Mate Rimac and Design Director Frank Heyl, using V-RED software to adjust materials and colours in real time.
Founder’s Edition owners become members of the Rimac Founders Club, receiving exclusive access to product previews, invitations to performance tests, and opportunities to discuss future product development. Each member receives a company card providing direct access to the Bugatti Rimac headquarters, along with other undisclosed privileges.
The vehicle’s specification includes a dual-tone exterior with a colour split that follows the car’s natural geometry. A narrow roof stripe featuring Rimac’s cravat motif and circuit board graphics runs through the centre. Interior elements include embroidery commemorating three key milestones in Rimac’s history and an asymmetrical seat layout based on Mate Rimac’s personal configuration.
Customization options for each unit include hand-stitched interiors and one-off finishes. Rimac’s design team has fulfilled requests for rare materials and colour matches from personal collections.
The Nevera R itself builds on the original Nevera platform, however, with a focus shift from a Hyper GT to a Hyper Sportscar. It delivers 2,107 horsepower through four electric motors, with Rimac’s torque vectoring system. In 2025, the car achieved 24 independently verified performance records, including a 0–60 mph time of 1.66 seconds and a top speed of 431.45 km/h. It also received a Red Dot Award for Product Design.
Owners will receive professional driver training from Rimac’s test drivers. Each vehicle will be delivered personally by Mate Rimac following the completion of hand-assembly and final quality checks.
The first product developed under the Neue Klasse philosophy, the 2027 iX3 is nothing short of a revolution not only in terms of electrification, but in how the vehicle itself has been conceived. The iX3 marks Day 1 of a new era for BMW.
Fast-charging capability up to 400 kW
Estimated range of 650 kilometres
The “50” powertrain delivers 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque
Pros: • Range • Cutting-edge electrification technology • Interior layout
Cons: • Reliability to be proven • Massive A-pillar base impacts visibility • Long list of options
BMW has been active in electrification for over a decade. Many will remember the quirky urban EV, the i3. Since then, things have evolved dramatically and the models keep coming. There are the i4, i5 and i7 sedans, all of which are compromises since they share platforms with gasoline models. The iX followed, and although partially made of carbon fibre, it remained fairly conservative in terms of electrification technology.
BMW is one of the few automakers taking electrification seriously without sidelining other mechanical options. But in this era of major shifts, the brand decided it was done with half-measures and compromises. Engineers were tasked with creating a lineup that would represent the first day of a new era: the Neue Klasse.
BMW already used this term in the 1960s during a transformative period that brought models such as the 1500, 1600 and the legendary 2002. Over sixty years later, BMW is doing it again.
The iX3 is the first product designed, conceptualized, engineered and built with full electrification in mind. Initially, Neue Klasse was previewed as a sedan in 2023, followed by the Neue Klasse X in 2024. BMW then confirmed that the SUV would come first bringing us to this initial milestone, the 2027 BMW iX3 50 xDrive.
Design: A Return to BMW’s Roots
Aside from a few millimetres here and there, the iX3’s dimensions are very close to those of the gasoline-poweredX3. Of course, the most striking visual element is the grille. BMW returns to its origins with undersized twin kidneys, echoing the Neue Klasse models of the 1960s. This grille marks an important turning point, as it will appear on all of the brand’s SUVs going forward.
The headlights introduce a new interpretation, integrated into a black applique that showcases BMW’s familiar twin lighting elements with a fresh approach. An illuminated grille is optional. Interestingly, the drag coefficient is only 0.24. At the front, two main styles are available: a more traditional look, and two sportier variants—M Sport and M Sport Pro with sharper lines and glossy black accents.
From the side, the design remains close to BMW’s known language, with some influence from the iX. This is especially evident with the flat wheel arches shaping the fenders. Standard wheels are 20 inches, with optional up to 22-inch wheels and 10 available designs. Despite representing a new era, the iX3 retains the Hofmeister kink at the rear side window.
At the rear, another new design direction appears with a “valley” between the taillights, mirroring the indentation on the hood. The lights are horizontal with a series of vertical LED strips. While the overall look is more rectilinear, BMW preserves its traditional L-shaped signature. A black applique acts as a diffuser on the lower section.
The Four Pillars of BMW’s New Electronic Architecture
Before going further, it’s important to explain BMW’s new electronic architecture. It relies on four “superbrains,” each dedicated to a key domain:
Driving dynamics
Automated driving
Infotainment
Basic and comfort functions
Rather than dozens of small computers like in a conventional vehicle, this digital nervous system uses a wiring layout divided into four zones. With reduced complexity, weight drops by 30%, and nearly 600 metres of cabling are removed. Intelligent digital fuses replace traditional circuit breakers, improving energy efficiency.
Pillar 1: “Heart of Joy” – The Core of Driving Dynamics
The first superbrain, called Heart of Joy, controls the powertrain, braking, energy recuperation and steering. It processes data 10 times faster, resulting in more precise, stable and efficient driving. Up to 98% of braking is handled through regeneration. Because the same system manages all components, acceleration, braking and steering feel more direct and consistent. The vehicle holds its line better and requires fewer corrections.
Pillar 2: Automated-Driving Superbrain
As expected in today’s automotive landscape, autonomy is central and significant enough to justify its own computer. It manages all semi-autonomous driving and parking functions with 20 times the processing power of conventional systems. This includes driver assistance and semi-autonomous highway driving. The system performs efficiently and smoothly, though not quite yet at the level of Cadillac’s Super Cruise. As the technology evolve, up in the air updates will be part of the journey of this system.
Pillar 3: Infotainment
The third superbrain oversees infotainment and connectivity. It ensures better integration with the My BMW app and supports new user experiences. Importantly, it also manages future digital functions that can be added via updates.
Pillar 4: Basic and Comfort Functions
This system handles essential vehicle functions such as temperature, energy management, lighting, as well as power modes and energy consumption through digital fuses.
Diving deeper, one element with direct impact on driving is the Symbiotic Drive interface, which forms the link between driver and machine. Its effects are numerous and sometimes subtle, yet always present in the background. Key components include:
Driver reactions combined with AI • Vehicle assistance remains active even with minor driver inputs • Eye-movement tracking prevents unwanted corrections • Symbiotic braking adjusts stopping power without deactivating assistance
A Technological Universe That Doesn’t Intimidate
A glance inside makes it clear that this is an entirely new era. The cabin is extremely clean with high-quality materials and flawless finishing. What marks this new chapter is the integration of innovative technologies.
The iX3 introduces Panoramic iDrive, a philosophy combining physical elements and digital controls to reinforce the “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” principle. The system includes several components: BMW Panoramic Vision, a base-of-windshield projection divided into three zones, each subdivided into three sections. It can display a variety of information. While I was skeptical when I saw it on the Neue Klasse X concept, it works exceptionally well. A head-up display is optional, although with Panoramic Vision, its usefulness feels limited. Still, the image is very clear and offers 3D effects.
The steering wheel is a work of art. Three variations are available depending on trim. The test model featured the M Sport Pro wheel with two lower spokes. Other versions have oddly placed spokes at 12 and 6 o’clock. In all cases, the multifunction wheel offers impressive ergonomics. Haptic controls are easy to use, and the backlit buttons illuminate only when needed.
In the centre, the 17.9-inch angled display marks a major leap for BMW. This is the new QuickSelect system, 10th-generation iDrive. Programmers simplified the interface dramatically, making the system much easier to use. A few minutes is enough to understand most features.
A vocal assistant is also included. Simply say “Hey BMW” to control climate settings, seats, calls, entertainment, windows and more. The assistant avatar appears as animations within Panoramic Vision and reverts to the BMW logo when inactive.
The assistant learns driver habits and can suggest actions based on driving patterns, conditions and use of vehicle programs. The “Routines” function automates everyday tasks depending on season and habits: heated wheel, seat heating, temperature adjustments, defrosting and more.
BMW is known for comfortable seats, and the iX3 continues that tradition. Support points are perfectly positioned and adjustments are plentiful. Ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, the panoramic roof and the 13-speaker Harman Kardon system will be optional.
Visibility is generally good, except for the extremely thick A-pillar base, which is a real issue in urban driving. Thankfully, a full suite of cameras and sensors helps mitigate risks.
Family usability is clear. Rear access is easy with a wide door opening. There is seating for three, and the vehicle’s width ensures good comfort. Headroom and legroom are generous. Cargo volume is 520 litres, expanding to 1,750 litres with the 40-20-40 rear seats folded.
State-of-the-Art Electric Powertrain
The iX3 is built on an all-new platform. BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology delivers major gains in efficiency, range and charging. “Gen6” reduces energy losses by 40%, weight by 10%, and production costs by 20%, major improvements in the EV world. The new 108.7-kWh high-voltage battery uses cylindrical lithium-ion cells, boosting energy density by over 20% and charging speed by 30%. Making the battery a structural element reduces weight and improves platform rigidity.
For now, the iX3 50 xDrive comes in a single configuration: the “50.” It uses two electric motors: a 322-hp externally excited synchronous motor (EESM) at the rear and a 165-hp induction motor (ASM) at the front. Combined output is 463 hp and 476 lb-ft. BMW claims 0–100 km/h in under 5 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h.
On the road, the powertrain feels solid and immediate as expected from an EV. The rear motor’s strength preserves BMW’s rear wheel drive traditional driving pleasure. As with other “50” models, the acceleration is real but not brutal.
Driving modes include Normal and Sport, with Sport being ideal for dynamic driving. The “50” launches the lineup, but other versions will follow: • an entry-level “40”, • a more powerful “60”, • and an ultra-high-performance M variant.
On the Road: A New Benchmark
BMW already performs well with the iX; with the iX3, the brand raises the standard again. Yes, the iX3 is heavy, but you don’t feel the weight in motion. The steering is typically BMW: inviting, precise and demanding driver involvement.
But the standout feature is the suspension. Remarkably, BMW engineers achieved this level of control without hydraulic or air assistance. The suspension is not adaptive. You can take corners confidently with no excessive body motion or drifting sensation. On rough roads, the system absorbs imperfections while maintaining a strong connection to the pavement.
If you ever have to use it, add to this a strong mechanical braking system, with over 13-inch discs front and rear. Regenerative braking is also available and, as always with BMW, allows one-pedal operation down to a full stop.
Big Numbers: 800V, 400 kW and 650 km
BMW estimates range at approximately 650 km under EPA methodology. Unfortunately, test-drive conditions in Spain didn’t allow for a reliable consumption average.
Charging uses a NACS port. The 800-V architecture supports powerful charging:
Up to 19.2 kW on a Level 2 home charger
Up to 400 kW on DC fast charging
282 km added in 10 minutes
10% to 80% in 21 minutes
It also supports charging on 400-V DC stations. Suddenly, most EV-range anxieties disappear.
The iX3 also offers bidirectional charging with three functions: • V2L – power external devices • V2H – store home solar energy • V2G – feed energy back into the grid
Conclusion
Day 1 of the Neue Klasse impressed me. The 2027 BMW iX3 is currently the most advanced compact luxury SUV. BMW is making a clear statement about its commitment to electrification: the 800-V architecture, charging power and simplified four-pillar computer setup are highly significant.
All of this happens without compromising BMW’s identity. The same qualities that built the brand’s reputation remain: quality, handling, luxury, technology and, above all, driving pleasure.
Reliability remains a question mark. BMW has a strong EV reliability record so far, but the Neue Klasse is so different that the counter resets to zero. Pricing also remains unknown, though early insider indications suggest the “50” will be close to the gasoline X3 equivalent, the M50, currently just above $80,000.
Final pricing will be announced closer to the Canadian market launch, expected in June or July 2026. The iX3 will be built in a brand-new plant in Debrecen, Hungary.
