I most likely solely want the fingers on one hand to rely the variety of automobiles with a universally appreciated design. Folks like to complain, and if I attempted onerous sufficient, I’d most likely discover somebody prepared to criticize the E31. Heck, possibly there are individuals on the market who don’t just like the timeless Z8. BMW’s current designs have confronted harsh criticism, whether or not for polarizing kidney grilles, cut up headlights, or simplified dashboards.
Nevertheless, we did discover a optimistic shift following the reveal of the new iX3. The “NA5” hasn’t confronted practically as a lot backlash as a few of BMW’s current fashions. That’s an encouraging signal, on condition that the electrical SUV spearheads a recent design language. Between now and the tip of 2027, the brand new look will unfold throughout 40+ automobiles. The smoother surfaces are coming to all fashions, together with a radically completely different inside that includes iDrive X and Panoramic Imaginative and prescient.
We’ve learn the feedback on our iX3 articles and seen the reactions on social media. Whereas most have been optimistic, some nonetheless argue that BMW is shifting within the fallacious path. Armed with suggestions from throughout the Web, we requested Oliver Heilmer to deal with a few of the commonest complaints surrounding the primary fashionable Neue Klasse.
He’s the person in control of design for all compact and midsize fashions, so from 1 Collection/X1 to three Collection/X3. The previous Head of MINI Design has additionally been tasked with shaping future M automobiles. Nevertheless, it’s essential to notice he took on this new function a few yr in the past. At that time, the iX3’s design had probably already been finalized.
In different phrases, BMW probably finalized the iX3’s design earlier than Heilmer took over as lead designer for compact, midsize, and M fashions. In our unique video shot on the 2025 Japan Mobility Present, Oliver addresses criticism surrounding the retro-inspired kidney grille, flush door handles, taillight design, steering wheel form, and the elimination of the iDrive controller.
Say what you’ll about how the iX3 appears inside or out, however it’s a must to respect BMW for addressing these complaints on digital camera. It’s uncommon to see a higher-up seem in a video that focuses solely on adverse suggestions from the general public.
Listening to Oliver clarify the reasoning behind these design selections ought to present a clearer understanding of why BMW is heading in a brand new path, whereas nonetheless honoring its illustrious heritage.
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