- SpeedBites
- Posts
- BMW Reveals Neue Klasse iX3, With 500-Mile Range
BMW Reveals Neue Klasse iX3, With 500-Mile Range
Andrew Evans
September 05, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Monaco GP contract extended to 2035
Tokyo Xtreme Racer launches September 25 on PC
Meet the W16 Edition Mercedes-AMG GT2 track toy
Liberty Media open to F1 sale if the offer is big enough
2005 Acura NSX-T for sale, with just 4,300 miles
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
BMW has unveiled its new iX3, featuring an impressive range of 500 miles for £58,755, making it the longest-range electric vehicle available in the UK market. This model, part of the Neue Klasse initiative, introduces groundbreaking technology and design elements, with plans for a more affordable rear-wheel drive version expected to exceed 600 miles of range next year.
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16, a track-focused racing vehicle, builds upon the existing AMG GT2 platform by enhancing its power output to 829hp through upgraded turbos and an advanced Push2Pass system. Limited to just 30 units, this model is priced at €679,000 and includes exclusive merchandise like a racing suit and helmet.
The latest iteration of the BMW i3 marks a significant addition to the brand's lineup of electric vehicles, representing the second entry in the 'Neue Klasse' series and focusing on the compact executive sedan segment. Set to launch next year, this model is expected to maintain the appealing design of the Vision concept and offer advanced powertrain options, including a powerful dual-motor setup and a future all-electric M variant.
The Mercedes G-Class, known for its transformation from a rugged military vehicle to a luxury icon, is set to reintroduce a convertible variant for the first time since 2014. While specific details about the engine options and design remain unclear, the new model is likely to follow the four-door format and could appeal to a wide range of markets globally.
The Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator are facing a recall due to potential trailer light malfunctions linked to faulty soldering in the Body Control Module, affecting over 213,000 vehicles. While Ford plans to notify dealers and owners about the issue in late 2025, a definitive repair solution will not be available until early 2026, leaving owners to monitor their vehicles for related electronic problems in the meantime.
Although the Honda Prelude has only just been officially unveiled, renowned Honda tuning concern Mugen has already produced aftermarket enhancements. The parts will be available from 2026 and currently include cosmetic upgrades with carbon fiber parts but Mugen also plans a performance exhaust for the hybrid Prelude.
The upcoming electric Mercedes-Benz GLC, debuting soon at the Munich motor show, will introduce the brand's largest digital display to date. Built on a dedicated electric platform, this new SUV will feature a significant MBUX Hyperscreen that spans the dashboard, offering advanced brightness control and customizable LED lighting throughout the interior.
General Motors has developed a patent for a system designed to evaluate a driver's fitness for the road by analyzing various behavioral indicators, including reaction times and driving habits. This innovation comes in response to the rising number of older drivers, as statistics reveal that seniors represent a significant portion of traffic fatalities in the US, highlighting the need for effective safety solutions.
MOTORSPORT
The Monaco Grand Prix has secured a contract extension with Formula 1 that will last through 2035. This agreement adds four more years to the current deal, reinforcing the event's longstanding significance in the world of motorsport, as affirmed by both Prince Albert II of Monaco and F1 chairman Stefano Domenicali.
Liberty Media's chairman, John Malone, indicated that the company would consider selling Formula 1 if a sufficiently attractive offer arises. Since acquiring the racing series in 2017 for $8 billion, Liberty has significantly increased its value and expanded its global reach, while also exploring future opportunities in streaming rights amidst ongoing speculation about potential buyers.
Williams Racing has filed a request for a review with the FIA regarding the penalty imposed on Carlos Sainz after the collision with Liam Lawson during the Dutch Grand Prix. Sainz expressed his belief that the stewards made an incorrect decision and is hopeful that new evidence can lead to a reassessment of the situation.
McLaren is optimistic about addressing the reliability concerns that affected Lando Norris during the recent Dutch Grand Prix, where his car suffered an oil line failure leading to his retirement. The team has taken steps to enhance its engine components and confirmed that the damaged unit could be reinstated later this season, ensuring that it won't impact Norris's power unit allocation for upcoming races.
Formula 1 teams have implemented specialized aerodynamic configurations for the Italian Grand Prix, adapting to the unique demands of the high-speed Monza circuit. While some teams, like McLaren and Ferrari, have introduced new components to enhance drag reduction, others, such as Red Bull and Mercedes, are refining existing designs to optimize performance without significant overhauls.
Daniel Ricciardo has formally declared his retirement from competitive racing, while simultaneously taking on the role of global ambassador for Ford Racing. Although his last appearance in motorsport was at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, he expressed enthusiasm for remaining connected to the sport through his new partnership with Ford.
Colton Herta will move from IndyCar to F2 racing and a role as test and development driver for the Cadillac Formula 1 team, aiming for a full-time position in 2027. Although he faces significant challenges in this new environment, Herta remains determined to prove his capabilities and fulfill his long-standing ambition of competing in Formula 1.
As the 2025 World Endurance Championship season nears its conclusion, Peugeot is actively reshaping its driver lineup, with Stoffel Vandoorne potentially departing early to accommodate rising star Theo Pourchaire. Meanwhile, Nick Cassidy has been confirmed to join the team in 2026, and both drivers are set to test the 9X8 at the Circuit of the Americas shortly after the upcoming race.
Ex-F1 team boss Guenther Steiner has finalized his acquisition of the Tech3 MotoGP team, supported by a group of investors, with plans to assume control in 2026. The deal, which is valued at nearly €20 million, ensures the retention of current riders and staff while marking Steiner's return to a leadership role in motorsport after his departure from Haas.
CURIOSITIES
Genki has announced that the new installment of the Tokyo Xtreme Racer series will officially launch on September 25, moving from Early Access to a full PC release. The street-racing game will feature nearly 60 vehicles from various Japanese manufacturers at launch, though some planned features won’t be present until future updates.
This well-preserved 2005 Acura NSX-T, with only 4,300 miles and a single owner, is currently available for auction in the US. Maintained exclusively at Acura dealerships since its purchase, the vehicle retains its original components, including tires and floor mats, making it an exceptional find for collectors of Japanese performance cars.
As the second live preliminary round of the 2025 Gran Turismo World Series approaches, Polyphony Digital has revealed enticing tie-in rewards for players. Players worldwide can earn free cars and in-game credits by engaging in specific activities during the competition weekend in Berlin, which marks the first live event in the German capital.
A video released by YouTube channel Chasing Curves shows off the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 as it navigates the famous Tail of the Dragon, a winding road renowned for its 318 curves over 11 miles. The nine-minute video is presented largely without any additional sound and with no narration, allowing viewers to enjoy the 1000hp car’s trip through the Smoky Mountains without distractions
For enthusiasts of the Corvette, the allure of the split-window coupe far outweighs that of its convertible counterpart, which can make selling such a model challenging. Currently listed for $32,000, a project convertible from 1963 is still available, offering potential buyers the chance to restore it with included spare parts, although further details about its engine and overall condition should be confirmed directly with the seller.
An electric vehicle owner in Minnesota faced an unusual citation for having a loud muffler, despite the fact that his Dodge Charger EV does not possess one. The incident occurred when a state trooper mistakenly believed the vehicle was causing a disturbance, leading to a ticket for noise and other infractions, even after the owner attempted to clarify the nature of his car.
The Ferrari SF90 Stradale, despite its impressive engineering and aesthetics, has experienced significant depreciation, with a recent sale reflecting a loss of nearly $300,000 within just three years of ownership. While the new owner benefits from a high-performance vehicle at a reduced price, the original owner faces the harsh reality of supercar investments, where value can plummet dramatically.
A bizarre series of interconnected accidents in LA has highlighted the dangers that even emergency response drivers face on the roads. Following an initial collision that necessitated an ambulance response, the situation escalated when another vehicle collided with the ambulance, with the Los Angeles Fire Department battalion chief sent to the scene then involved in a further crash at the very same intersection.
That's all for today! We would love to hear your feedback, so just reply to this message to let us know what you thought about this issue. See you next time!