This article discusses the recent price increase of the BMW iX3 electric SUV in Germany, occurring even before the first vehicles are delivered to customers. It explores potential reasons behind this early adjustment, including strong market demand and government subsidies, and touches upon the iX3's availability and future variants for different markets.
Early Price Adjustment: BMW iX3's Unexpected Cost Increase
Anticipated Deliveries and Unexpected Price Adjustments for the BMW iX3
Only a few months after its official unveiling, the second-generation BMW iX3 electric SUV is already experiencing a price hike. First introduced at the IAA Mobility Show in September 2025, where order books for Europe also opened, the vehicle's initial price in Germany was €68,900. However, this figure has since been revised upward.
Germany's Market Reflects New Pricing for the All-Electric SUV
BMW's German online configurator now displays a new starting price of €70,900, marking a €2,000 increase. This adjustment comes prior to any customer deliveries, though individuals who placed orders at the original price will not be affected. While BMW has not explicitly stated the reason for this early price change, market analysts suggest several contributing factors.
Surging Demand and Production Expansion in the European Market
The iX3 has proven to be a significant success in Europe, with production slots for 2026 already nearly sold out. To meet this robust demand, BMW is accelerating operations at its Debrecen plant in Hungary, implementing a second shift ahead of schedule. The automaker's confidence in the iX3's appeal suggests they believe this early price increment will not deter prospective buyers. Nonetheless, this move could lead some customers to consider alternatives, such as the electric Mercedes GLC, which offers a comparable price point of €71,281 before options.
Current Offerings and Future Expansions for the iX3 Lineup
Currently, the iX3 is exclusively offered as a 50 xDrive variant. While US pricing remains to be finalized, BMW has indicated a cost of approximately $60,000 for this version. European markets are expected to see the introduction of a more budget-friendly, single-motor, rear-wheel-drive iX3 40 later this year, with its North American debut slated for early 2027, potentially alongside a 40 xDrive model.
Introducing High-Performance Variants: The iX3 M Lineup
BMW also intends to broaden the iX3 range with two M performance variants. An M Performance model, likely to be named the iX3 M60, is anticipated to launch in Europe later this year. This will precede a full-fledged M model, which is expected to share its platform with the forthcoming quad-motor M3 sedan in 2027, featuring artificial engine sounds and simulated gear changes. It is logical to expect the electric X3 M to follow suit next year.
Market Implications: Subsidies and Consumer Sentiment
One possible reason for BMW's comfort in increasing the iX3's price in Germany could be the local government's electric car subsidies, which can amount to up to €6,000 for buyers. This German precedent raises questions about whether the iX3's US pricing will also exceed initial estimates, though a lack of a firm starting price for the US market leaves this speculative. Despite potential customer frustration, the early price adjustment underscores the iX3's strong reception. The first deliveries to customers are expected to commence in March.
