BMW iX3 Wins 2026 Car of the Year at What Car? Awards

The new BMW iX3 has been awarded the prestigious title of Car of the Year at the 2026 What Car? Awards. This accolade recognizes the iX3 as a standout model in an increasingly competitive market for electric vehicles. The announcement was made during the annual awards ceremony held in London on January 22, 2026.

The fully electric SUV impressed judges with its remarkable features, including a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, thanks to its 108.7 kWh battery. The iX3 also supports ultra-rapid charging of up to 400 kW, allowing drivers to add 215 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Such capabilities helped it to stand out among its competitors, including the newly unveiled Volvo EX60, which offers a slightly superior range of 503 miles.

Steve Huntingford, editor of What Car?, praised the iX3 by stating, “The premium electric SUV market is one of the most hotly contested, yet in so many respects the BMW iX3 offers a step change in capability.” He further highlighted its combination of extensive range, rapid charging, improved software, and driving enjoyment, calling it “a truly great car.”

This recognition marks the fifth time a fully electric car has received the Car of the Year title from What Car?, and it is the fourth win for BMW since the awards began in 1978. Previous winners from the brand include the 5 Series in 2017, the 3 Series in 2006, and the 7 Series in 1988.

The iX3 is priced starting at £58,755 for the base model, with the M Sport Pro version retailing at £62,755 before additional options. Alongside its Car of the Year win, the iX3 also secured the award for Premium Electric SUV. Overall, BMW took home five honors at this year’s awards.

The What Car? Awards are regarded as the “Motoring Oscars,” celebrating the best new vehicles released in the previous year. The judging panel consists of 59 independent motoring journalists from 23 European nations. This year, the awards showcased various categories, and the iX3 was recognized as the top choice in the family electric SUV category.

The new iX3 has been developed as part of BMW’s Neue Klasse project, representing the next generation of electric vehicles focused on driving enjoyment and advanced technology. This second-generation model is designed with a new chassis and architecture, featuring minimalist styling and a spacious interior.

The iX3’s cockpit includes a Panoramic iDrive System that aligns key information with the driver’s line of sight, enhancing the overall driving experience. The vehicle boasts a spacious 520-litre boot and a 58-litre front storage area, ensuring practicality for families.

In a year where competition remains fierce, the BMW iX3’s triumph at the What Car? Awards underscores its position as a leader in the electric SUV market. As consumers increasingly seek out sustainable options, the iX3 sets a benchmark for performance and innovation, continuing BMW’s legacy of excellence in automotive design.