Revolutionary BMW iX3 and Iconic BMW Art Car Shine Together

BMW Art Car Collection Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Global Tour

The renowned BMW Art Car Collection embarked on a momentous 50th-anniversary global tour spanning five continents, commencing in March. The latest leg of this extraordinary journey took place in Hungary, the home of the new iX3 electric crossover. BMW seized this opportunity to showcase one of its Art Cars alongside the first modern Neue Klasse model at an event held at Millenáris Park in Budapest.

For the very first time in Hungary, the original BMW Art Car, the iconic 1975 3.0 CSL, made a grand appearance at the exhibition. This #93 race car, driven by Hervé Poulain at Le Mans, may not have completed the endurance race, but it was instrumental in pioneering the BMW Art Car program. Designed by American artist Alexander Calder, this original Art Car marked the beginning of a rich history that has seen a total of 19 vehicles created, with the most recent addition being Julie Mehretu’s M Hybrid V8 last year.

While the classic E9 model undoubtedly stole the spotlight, the new iX3 was not overshadowed. BMW presented several iX3 vehicles in M Sport Package trim featuring various 22-inch wheel designs. The Ocean Wave Blue color scheme was predominant, with one standout vehicle sporting a Space Silver finish.

Produced locally at the state-of-the-art Debrecen plant, the Neue Klasse-based iX3 electric vehicle recently commenced series production. European customers will be the first to experience this innovative EV when deliveries commence next spring. Initially, the iX3 50 xDrive variant will be available, with “40” models set to join the lineup shortly, offering both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. These more affordable iX3 versions will feature a smaller battery compared to the 108.7-kWh pack found in the launch edition.

In the near future, the iX3 will be accompanied by a modern interpretation of the classic 1800 Turismo Internazionale. BMW’s first Neue Klasse sedan of the current era, the i3, is set to reinterpret the traditional three-box design for the modern age. Additionally, in 2026, BMW will introduce a new body style to the lineup with the debut of the iX4, a crossover-coupe model.

It is only a matter of time before the first modern Neue Klasse model receives the prestigious Art Car treatment. While it remains uncertain whether a sedan or coupe will be the canvas for Art Car #21, given the recent debut of the M Hybrid V8, enthusiasts will have to wait patiently for the next masterpiece to emerge.