BMW Asserts That the Upcoming iX3 May Achieve Equal Profit Margins as the X3
BMW is gearing up for a significant revitalisation of its sales in China, its largest market, with the iX3 and upcoming Neue Klasse models taking centre stage.
The automaker has confirmed an entry-level 40 sDrive version of the iX3, priced under $55,000, and an xDrive equivalent is also on the way. The electric SUV is projected to generate approximately the same profit as the X3, with the first full year on sale with global availability expected in 2027.
The Neue Klasse rollout, costing more than 10 billion euros, will result in 40+ new or updated cars by the end of 2027. The future models belonging to the Neue Klasse include the BMW iX3 (already available), the new BMW 3 Series and i3 expected in 2026/2027, a Neue Klasse coupe variant (likely not before 2026), and a possible electric successor to the BMW M8 based on the Neue Klasse platform, also not expected before 2026. The first new models, such as the iX3, are planned to be on the market by 2026, with others like the 3 Series arriving around 2026/2027.
BMW is also investing in its inline-six and V8 engines to make them compliant with Euro 7 standards, and the three- and four-cylinder powertrains are expected to remain for the long haul. The company's CEO, Oliver Zipse, believes the EU's 2035 sales ban on new vehicles with conventional powertrains would be a 'big mistake.'
Walter Mertl, BMW's Chief Financial Officer, stated that with increasing availability of the Neue Klasse, they expect growth in China again. Mertl is not worried about BMW's future model range.
In addition, BMW is reportedly preparing an i3 Touring, designated as 'NA1,' and an eighth-generation model, codenamed 'G50,' is launching shortly after the i3 'NA0.' However, the gas-powered wagon may not survive into the 'G51' generation.
The iX3 is shaping up to be a popular model with a strong spec sheet, fresh design, and next-gen technology. BMW is not planning to abandon combustion engines, and the 'NA5' has a real chance of being as profitable as the 'G45.'
Despite the shift towards electric vehicles, the future of BMW remains promising, with a diverse range of models catering to various markets and customer preferences.
