BMW and Mercedes have just unveiled their next-generation electric SUVs. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive goes on sale next summer, while the Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC Electric will reach U.S. dealers in the second half of 2026.
Both are global models positioned in the premium SUV segment, combining long range, powerful dual-motor drivetrains, highly connected cabins, and rapid charging.
Let’s look at how the two SUVs compare based on the preliminary data.
Design & Interior
The iX3 retains BMW’s upright SAV proportions, lavished with a vertical kidney grille that stays faithful to the brand’s heritage and flush glazing for aerodynamic efficiency. Its stance reinforces the connection to the gas-powered X3, with body-color wheel arches and a strong horizontal light signature at the rear.
Inside, the focus is minimalist with a driver-oriented cockpit with Panoramic iDrive on a 14.9-inch screen, a floating instrument panel, and sustainable trim options.
Mercedes harks back to the vintage models with a reimagined illuminated grille featuring 942 light points and an animated center star. It features sculpted shoulder lines and 0.26 Cd aerodynamic profile.
The cabin contrasts BMW’s restraint, centering on the 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen and a SKY CONTROL panoramic roof with an optional starry sky effect. Materials include a world-first Vegan Package certified by The Vegan Society.
Utility & Features
The iX3 offers 520 liters (18.3 cu ft) of cargo space expandable to 1,750 liters (61.8 cu ft), plus a 58-liter (2.0 cu ft) frunk. Seats look sporty and comfortable, with Econeer recycled fabric standard and higher trims offering Veganza and Merino leather.
The GLC Electric provides greater utility on paper, with 570 liters (20.1 cu ft) of cargo space, expandable to 1,740 liters (61.4 cu ft), and a 100-liter (3.5 cu ft) frunk. Mercedes also integrates advanced comfort features such as ENERGIZING COMFORT wellness programs and AGR-certified ergonomic seating.
The iX3 is rated to tow up to 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs). The GLC offers stronger utility with 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs) braked capacity.
Specifications
Battery & Range
The BMW iX3 uses a 108.7 kWh net battery pack delivering 679-805 km (422-500 miles) WLTP range, and around 400 miles in the EPA cycle. Mercedes fits a smaller 94 kWh battery but claims 571-713 km (355-443 miles) WLTP.
Performance
The iX3 50 xDrive delivers 345 kW (469 hp) and 645 Nm (475 lb-ft) from dual motors, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.9 seconds. Mercedes offers more performance on paper: 360 kW (483 hp) and 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Both have their top speeds limited to 210 km/h (130 mph).
Charging
BMW is ahead on charging speed, with 400 kW DC capability, 10-80% in 21 minutes, and up to 372 km (231 miles) added in ten minutes. AC charging is 11 kW standard, 22 kW optional. It also supports bidirectional Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home, and Vehicle-to-Grid.
Mercedes supports up to 330 kW DC fast charging, adding 10-80% in 22 minutes. AC charging matches BMW at 11 kW standard, 22 kW optional.
Safety
BMW equips the iX3 with sixth-generation eDrive motors, Panoramic Vision displays, and a zonal electronics architecture with smart fuses to cut wiring weight. Standard driver assistance includes Dynamic Stability Control, trailer stability control, besides 7 airbags.
The GLC Electric integrates MB.OS, an AI-driven supercomputer managing everything from infotainment to ADAS. Up to ten cameras, five radars, and twelve ultrasonic sensors feed the MB.DRIVE assistance suite. Safety includes an advanced high-voltage protection system, PRE-SAFE, a new One-Box braking system, and up to 11 airbags.
| Aspect | BMW iX3 50 xDrive | Mercedes GLC 400 4MATIC Electric |
| Battery (usable) | 108.7 kWh | 94 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 679-805 km (422-500 mi) | 571-713 km (355-443 mi) |
| Power / Torque | 469 hp / 475 lb-ft | 483 hp / NA |
| 0-62 mph | 4.9 seconds | 4.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 210 km/h (130 mph) | 210 km/h (130 mph) |
| Charging (DC) | 400 kW, 10-80% in 21 min | 330 kW, 10-80% in 22 min |
| Charging (AC) | 11 kW std / 22 kW opt | 11 kW std / 22 kW opt |
| Cargo space | 520-1750 L (18.3-61.8 cu ft) + 58 L (2.0 cu ft) frunk | 570-1740 L (20.1-61.4 cu ft) + 100 L (3.5 cu ft) frunk |
| Towing capacity | 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) | 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs) |
| Wheelbase | 114.1 in | 117.0 in |
| Length / Width / Height | 188.3 / 74.6 / 64.4 in | 190.7 / 75.3 / 64.7 in |
| Launch (U.S.) | Summer 2025 | H2 2026 |
| Pricing | ~USD 60,000 | ~USD 60,000 (expected) |
Price & Release Date
The production of the iX3 begins in Hungary in November 2025, with the first cars available at U.S. dealers in summer 2026. Mercedes targets the second half of 2026 for U.S. market introduction. BMW has confirmed a starting price of about USD 60,000, and the GLC Electric is expected to be positioned in a similar range.
Images of the products used in the story are courtesy of BMW Press Club Global and Mercedes-Benz Media.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
