BMW's Next-Gen iX1 Spotted Testing With Neue Klasse Styling

BMW’s smallest electric SUV is getting a major rework, and fresh spy shots suggest the upcoming iX1 will borrow heavily from the brand’s newest design language. A camouflaged prototype was recently caught lapping the Nürburgring, giving enthusiasts a first real glimpse at what the German automaker has in store for its entry-level EV.

The current iX1 debuted in 2022 riding on a platform shared with the combustion-powered X1. That changes with the next iteration. BMW is reportedly skipping a traditional mid-cycle refresh and jumping straight to a second-generation model built on the dedicated Neue Klasse EV architecture. This shift should translate into meaningful gains in range, efficiency, and charging capability compared to today’s version.

Visually, the prototype signals a clear departure from the current model’s ICE-derived proportions. The most noticeable change is the front fascia, where BMW’s signature oversized kidney grille appears to have been replaced by a slimmer, more minimalist treatment. The overall silhouette draws obvious parallels to the larger iX3, leading observers to describe the new iX1 as a scaled-down version of its bigger sibling.

Inside, expect a comprehensive overhaul aligned with BMW’s Neue Klasse cabin philosophy. That includes a 17.9-inch central touchscreen, a redesigned steering wheel, and the brand’s Panoramic Vision 3D head-up display that spans the width of the dashboard. More advanced software and connectivity features are also part of the package.

The timing fits into BMW’s broader product offensive. The company has committed to launching 40 new or updated models through 2027, with the next-gen iX1 among them. For context, the 2026 iX1 eDrive20 and xDrive30 currently offer WLTP ranges of up to 512 km and 417 km respectively.

Buyers in the United States won’t get the iX1, as BMW has no plans to bring it stateside. However, the new 2027 iX3 and i3 are already available, each starting at $61,500. BMW also used its recent Capital Market Day to announce a fully electric entry-level Neue Klasse model arriving in 2028, expected to be called the i1 — a sedan companion to the iX1.