BMW is altering its infotainment system, once more. Though iDrive 8/8.5 and iDrive 9 are nonetheless comparatively new, it received’t be lengthy earlier than the 2026 iX3 turns into the primary mannequin to function iDrive X. Even from this prototype, it’s clear that upcoming dashboards will endure vital adjustments to accommodate the brand new setup. Taking heart stage is a big 17.9-inch touchscreen. However why is it angled like that?
Throughout a take a look at drive occasion on the firm’s Miramas proving floor in southern France, we spoke with Carl Frederic Cohrssen, BMW’s Head of Buyer Administration, Consumer Interplay & Expertise. He defined that the display screen’s tilt towards the motive force serves a practical function: entry to incessantly used features is positioned on the left aspect of the show. This placement makes it simpler to achieve the infotainment system, since your proper hand naturally rests close to the display screen.
Regardless of the wealth of options packed into the system, navigating iDrive X received’t contain diving via infinite submenus. BMW says it relied closely on buyer suggestions to streamline the interface and scale back the variety of display screen faucets required. Nevertheless, local weather controls at the moment are totally built-in into the touchscreen.
However not all the pieces has migrated to the display screen. The steering wheel nonetheless homes quite a few buttons, and there are a number of bodily controls between the seats. Whereas a lot of the prototype’s inside was lined, BMW did depart some key buttons uncovered. Controls for the parking brake, hazard lights, and entrance and rear defrosters are seen, together with a quantity dial. You’ll additionally spot a small gear selector, however the start/stop button is gone.
Moreover, the motive force’s door retains conventional window and mirror switches, in addition to lock/unlock buttons. It’s also possible to see the stalks behind the steering wheel, proof that digitalization hasn’t eradicated each old-school management. However sure, screens have largely taken over. Regardless that the digital instrument cluster is gone, it’s been changed by the Panoramic Imaginative and prescient, which extends throughout the appropriate aspect of the dashboard.
The ultimate bits of camouflage will come off in early September, when BMW formally unveils the production-ready iX3 “NA5” on the IAA Mobility Present in Munich.
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