BMW has begun production of the replacement for today’s iX3 electric SUV, but only in limited volumes of test vehicles.

The first examples of the Neue Klasse-based BMW iX3 replacement are now being made in the brand’s Debrecen, Hungary factory, with the carmaker calling these SUVs “near-series vehicles”.

They’re being produced to ensure the factory’s logistics processes and manufacturing equipment and the operations performed by employees can run smoothly with what is an entirely new platform for BMW, tipped to be its most important for electric vehicles (EVs) yet.

“These operations are just as complex as in actual series production. Despite the limited number of parts involved, they must still be made available in the appropriate logistics processes,” BMW said in a media release.

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It’s a significant step, not only for the iX3 replacement but also the Debrecen factory which is brand new.

The new SUV is an important vehicle for the brand as, in addition to markets like Australia and Europe, it’s also set to be sold in the US where the current iX3 isn’t offered.

Mass production of the new-generation SUV is due to take place in late 2025, becoming the first BMW on its Neue Klasse EV platform. BMW hasn’t officially confirmed whether it’ll wear the iX3 nameplate, but it appears likely.

Bimmerpost forum user ynguldyn, who claims to compile information from sources within BMW, reports it’ll first be available in iX3 50 xDrive guise for the European market, before the model range expands to include the rear-wheel drive 40, and all-wheel drive 40 and M60 xDrives.

It’s not yet known whether it’ll get its own M-model such as the current petrol-powered X3 M.

BMW has yet to reveal the iX3, however it’s expected to remain faithful to the Vision Neue Klasse X concept that was revealed back in March.

Patent images which leaked online and were reported by Dutch media outlet Autoweek earlier this month showed it’ll feature minimalistic exterior styling, however BMW’s iconic double kidney grille and Hofmeister kink won’t be left out.

The front features a tall, slim double kidney grille, complemented by lighting strips spanning the width of the vehicle.

An expansive panoramic glass roof takes the place of a regular ceiling panel. One change that’s evident from the concept is the fitment of traditional side mirrors, replacing the fin-shaped units from the concept.

Moving around to the rear, the second-generation iX3 is characterised by broad shoulders and sharp edges. There are also particularly wide tail light clusters.

This design language is expected to carry across to BMW’s other Neue Klasse EVs, of which it plans to launch six models across sedan and SUV body styles by 2028.

BMW has previously claimed the Neue Klasse models will boast 30 per cent greater driving range and charging rates compared to its current EV lineup.

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