BMW’s latest iX3 electric SUV has secured a five-star safety rating under Euro NCAP’s newly revised, more demanding assessment protocol. The iX3 was among the first vehicles to be evaluated using these updated standards, highlighting BMW’s ongoing commitment to safety in its electrified lineup.
BMW iX3 Scores High in All Safety Categories
The BMW iX3 was one of the first vehicles to undergo Euro NCAP’s revised safety assessment, introduced in 2026. The new protocol evaluates vehicles across four key stages: Safe Driving, Crash Avoidance, Crash Protection, and Post Crash Safety.
In the ‘Safe Driving’ category, which covers occupant detection, driver monitoring, and assistance systems, the iX3 achieved a 73% score. For ‘Crash Avoidance’, which assesses features like lane departure assist and automatic braking, the iX3 scored 83%.
The SUV performed strongly in ‘Crash Protection’, earning 86% and receiving praise for providing ‘good or adequate protection for all occupants in the frontal offset test.’ The iX3 also scored full points in side impact tests, including far-side impacts. In the ‘Post Crash Safety’ category, the iX3 achieved a near-perfect 95%, with Euro NCAP noting the effective operation of its electrically-operated door handles and mechanical fallback systems.
Euro NCAP’s New Protocol and Other Results
Euro NCAP’s updated assessment, launched in 2026, places greater emphasis on the entire crash timeline, from prevention to post-crash response. The iX3’s third-party eCall emergency function was confirmed as available, though not in all Euro NCAP countries.
Alongside the iX3, the Zeekr 7GT wagon was also tested and received a five-star rating. The Zeekr 7GT outperformed the iX3 in three of the four categories, with scores of 79% for Safe Driving, 89% for Crash Avoidance, 93% for Crash Protection, and 95% for Post Crash Safety.
Competitor Comparison
The BMW iX3 competes in the premium electric SUV segment alongside models such as the Genesis Electrified GV70, priced at $64,380 (~AUD 92,853), the Audi Q6 e-tron at $63,800 (~AUD 92,016), and the Porsche Macan Electric at $80,300 (~AUD 115,814). While each offers a unique blend of features and performance, the iX3’s strong safety credentials under the latest Euro NCAP standards set a high bar for rivals.
Regional Availability and BMW’s Electrification Push
BMW has expanded its market share in Europe, with notable double-digit growth in Italy, France, and the UK. Electrified vehicles made up 26% of BMW Group’s total sales in 2025, reflecting the brand’s increasing focus on electric mobility.
The iX3’s five-star safety rating is expected to bolster its appeal in markets where safety is a top priority for buyers.
Why this matters
The BMW iX3’s performance under Euro NCAP’s stricter 2026 protocol demonstrates the brand’s commitment to occupant and pedestrian safety, especially as electric vehicles become more prevalent. Achieving top marks in these new tests provides reassurance to buyers and sets a benchmark for other manufacturers.
With electrified vehicles accounting for a growing share of BMW’s sales and the company expanding its presence in key European markets, safety achievements like this are likely to influence purchasing decisions and regulatory perceptions.
What this means for buyers
Buyers considering a premium electric SUV can look to the BMW iX3 as a model that not only delivers on performance and technology but also excels in the latest safety assessments. Those prioritizing safety should note the iX3’s strong scores across all Euro NCAP categories.
Shoppers are encouraged to compare the iX3’s safety credentials and pricing with direct competitors such as the Genesis Electrified GV70, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Porsche Macan Electric to find the best fit for their needs.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on premium electric SUVs and BMW’s electrification strategy, see these recent stories from The Electric Viking:
Mercedes-Benz Launches All-New Electric GLC SUV in China, Targeting Tesla and Local Rivals
2027 BMW iX4 Spotted Testing Ahead of Official Debut
Polestar 4 SUV Announced: More Space, Longer Range, But No U.S. Launch
Key Specs
- Euro NCAP Overall Rating: Five stars (2026 protocol)
- Safe Driving Score: 73%
- Crash Avoidance Score: 83%
- Crash Protection Score: 86%
- Side Impact Test: Full points
- Post Crash Safety Score: 95%
- Third-party eCall Function: Available (not in all countries)
- Electrically-operated Door Handles: Tested and confirmed
Source
Images sourced from: autoblog.com, carmagazine.co.uk, thedrive.com
