The New BMW iX3’s Interior Looks Cozy At Night

One factor I’ve seen in my practically 20-year journalism profession is that automakers are likely to keep away from publishing photographs of their automobiles at night time. Most press images present automobiles in broad daylight, and we not often see interiors at night time. BMW is now bucking that development with the brand new iX3, forward of its look at CES 2026 in Las Vegas this week.

Since CES is primarily a tech present, BMW is highlighting the iX3’s “brains” somewhat than the electrical SUV itself. This marks the primary public presentation of the AI-powered BMW Clever Private Assistant with Alexa+ expertise. Advertising jargon apart, it’s basically a complicated voice assistant designed to ship human-like interplay.

For instance, you’ll be capable of ask a couple of query in a single sentence, whether or not it’s in regards to the automotive or a common subject unrelated to the iX3. When you’re achieved utilizing the AI assistant, you possibly can swap to video streaming on the stately 17.9-inch display screen. Streaming works solely when the automobile is stationary, and there’s a devoted Video App. If you have already got a Disney+ account, it should work contained in the automotive as nicely.

One other solution to go the time whereas the iX3 is parked is by enjoying video video games. Already obtainable in current BMW fashions, the AirConsole performance turns your smartphone right into a controller for the central show. There’s even an unique recreation: Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive, restricted to BMW clients. You may play solo or workforce up with passengers.

Total, greater than 85 apps can be found, with YouTube Music becoming a member of the lineup for the primary time. Zoom can also be supported, letting you utilize the iX3’s predominant display screen, although solely when stationary. As soon as the automotive is in movement, the video feed shuts off, and the connection continues by way of audio solely.

You’re most likely accustomed to the iX3’s inside by now, however these nightfall photographs spotlight its intricate ambient lighting. Whether or not it’s an excessive amount of or simply sufficient is a matter of private style. BMW is showcasing the electrical crossover with the elective Sport steering wheel that includes an M brand. Nonetheless, it shouldn’t be confused with the precise M wheel, which has differently arranged spokes.

The featured iX3 comes with Castanea upholstery, certainly one of a number of synthetic leather-based choices. For individuals who favor the actual factor, BMW affords Merino leather-based at an additional value. Talking of choices, a white steering wheel can even be obtainable, however solely when the automobile is configured with Digital White upholstery.

Though BMW is exhibiting off the iX3 at CES, it hasn’t finalized U.S. pricing. The corporate nonetheless says the 50 xDrive will begin at round $60,000 when it goes on sale this summer season, with a extra reasonably priced single-motor, rear-wheel-drive version anticipated in early 2027.