BMW found immediate success with the new iX3. The first model on the brand’s Neue Klasse platform was the best-selling electric vehicle in its category in Europe in April, with 10,299 deliveries, according to data from market research company Dataforce.
This happened just a month after iX3 deliveries began in Europe in March. The volume was enough to place the electric SUV in seventh place among the best-selling premium mid-size SUVs from January to April.
In comparison, the combustion Mercedes-Benz GLC topped the ranking with 41,227 units, followed by the BMW X3 with 38,389 cars. Still, the iX3 outperformed models like the Polestar 4, Audi Q5 Sportback and Porsche Macan, which have been on sale for longer.
The good performance of the BMW iX3, combined with the increase in sales of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC EV, helped to reverse the trend in the segment. Total sales grew 8% compared to the first four months of last year. In the same period in 2025, the increase had been just 1% compared to 2024, which shows a clear improvement now.
It’s not difficult to understand the reason for the iX3’s early success. With a range of up to 434 miles according to EPA estimates, a maximum recharge power of 400 kW and a starting price of US$62,850 in the United States, the model offers better value for money than an equivalent gasoline X3 M50 xDrive.
Thanks to the 800-volt architecture, the electric crossover recovers from 10% to 80% of the battery in just 21 minutes. This makes it a great option for long trips. The configuration with two engines and 463 hp also adds to the appeal.
The iX3 is not alone on this path. Both the Mercedes-Benz GLC EV and the Volvo EX60 follow a similar formula, with prices close to those of combustion equivalents, dedicated 800V platforms that allow very fast recharging and good autonomy.
As a result, consumers have flocked to these three trams and placed tens of thousands of orders. BMW reported having received at least 50,000 firm orders for the iX3, which led the company to bring forward an extra shift at the factory in Debrecen, Hungary. At the same time, Volvo plans to produce 40,000 units of the EX60 this year, while Mercedes-Benz said that orders for the electric GLC are already committed until the second half of 2026.
It is important to highlight that all these numbers refer only to Europe. The three electric crossovers are expected to arrive in the United States by the end of this year, where they will compete with models such as the Cadillac Optiq and Tesla Model Y.