Celebrating the First iX3 Delivery at BMW’s Debrecen Factory

Receiving your new car directly from the factory where it was built is a rare and exciting experience. BMW organized a unique handover event at the Debrecen plant, which only commenced series production a few months ago. An early adopter of the iX3 was privileged to receive their electric SUV at its birthplace in Debrecen.

During the ceremony held at the Debrecen site, a customer selected the iX3 in Sapphire Black. The vehicle featured the optional M Sport Package Pro and 22-inch aerodynamic wheels, giving it a luxurious appearance. Additionally, it showcased the new M steering wheel design that will be utilized in future M-badged performance models.

Since the end of last year, the iX3 has been exclusively manufactured in Debrecen. To meet the strong demand, BMW expedited the production ramp-up, leading to the implementation of a second shift earlier than planned. Once operating at full capacity, the site will produce up to 150,000 vehicles annually. Although currently only the 50 xDrive model is being assembled, more affordable and upscale versions are in the pipeline.

Earlier reports indicated the presence of 40 and 40 xDrive variants at the entry level, with M Performance and full M versions planned for the higher end. It is expected that the more affordable models and the iX3 M60 will arrive in Europe by the end of this year or early 2027, before expanding to other markets. The full-fledged X3 M (“ZA5”) featuring a quad-motor setup is projected to debut by the end of 2027.

As the iX3 is a new model, not all options will be available initially. BMW plans to gradually expand the configurator with additional exterior colors and wheel designs. Interior updates such as a white steering wheel and heated rear seats are on the horizon, with ventilated front seats and an adaptive suspension also in the works. However, air suspension will be reserved for larger, more expensive Neue Klasse EVs.

Production of the iX3 will not be limited to Debrecen, as it is set to commence at the San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico in 2027. Additionally, BMW is gearing up to launch a long-wheelbase “NA6” version in China for local buyers and select export markets. The company has confirmed plans for expansion into India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

The recently unveiled i3 sedan (“NA0”) will be manufactured in Munich, Germany, rather than Hungary. However, there is potential for the Debrecen site to introduce another EV by the end of the year – the iX4 (“NA7”). Confirmation from BMW is pending.