BMW’s Neue Klasse, a modern design language initially showcased through electric vehicle (EV) concepts, is set to permeate the brand's entire model range - spanning internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, hybrids, and full-electric models.
This comprehensive rollout ensures that future BMW models, regardless of their powertrain, will share a unified design language and user interface.
Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW Group’s design chief, has confirmed as much.
Speaking to Top Gear, van Hooydonk stated, "The big push with EVs, these technologies and this design language, will transfer over the entire product portfolio, including our combustion vehicles."
While some proportionate differences between ICE and EV models will remain, the overall "look and feel" will be consistent.
Beyond that, drivers will experience futuristic features like the BMW Panoramic Vision head-up display, uniquely shaped touchscreens and advanced steering wheel controls, regardless of their chosen powertrain. The interiors will also feature sustainable materials, highlighting BMW’s eco-conscious direction.
The first production car to adopt the Neue Klasse design will be the new BMW iX3, an EV scheduled for release in 2025.
Following closely are the Vision Neue Klasse sedan in 2026 and an electric M3 in 2027, marking the start of a new design era for the brand. By 2029, up to six EVs are expected to showcase the Neue Klasse aesthetics.
Prototypes of the upcoming BMW X5 have also hinted at the new design language being applied to ICE and hybrid models. Slated for release in 2026, the X5 will feature hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric variants, all aligned with the Neue Klasse styling direction.
Van Hooydonk reassured that despite the design consistency, individual models will retain unique characteristics, preventing them from becoming indistinguishable replicas.
He also noted that the Neue Klasse production models will closely resemble their concepts, with minor refinements to enhance detailing and proportions.
As BMW moves forward, the fusion of design consistency and powertrain diversity will likely define its next generation of vehicles.