The new iX3 had the honor of being the first production model to showcase BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ design language. Now, it’s adding another first under its belt: the iX3 is the first vehicle to undergo the latest set of safety criteria from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).
Every three years, ANCAP updates testing methods and rating requirements to keep pace with advancing technology in the automotive world. For example, a highlight of the new 2026-2028 safety standards is the assessment of fuel leakage and electric battery integrity—a reflection of the growing number of electrified vehicles on the road.
The updated methodology also puts cars through the ‘Stages of Safety,’ comprised of Safe Driving, Crash Avoidance, Crash Protection, and Post Crash. ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg helps describe these stages of testing: “Safe Driving helps reduce mistakes; Crash Avoidance helps prevent collisions; Crash Protection remains the foundation of occupant safety when a crash cannot be avoided; and Post Crash helps improve survival and recovery when every minute counts.”
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Under the new safety standards, ANCAP rates the BMW iX3 a full five stars. Being an electric vehicle, the organization took note of details such as the battery exhibiting good isolation and fire mitigation as well as the flush door handles being complemented by manual releases.
In its examination of Safe Driving features, ANCAP found no faults with the iX3’s safety systems. It also highlighted the presence of dedicated physical controls for essential vehicle functions like turn signals, hazard lights, and the gear selector. Crash Avoidance systems like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assists also functioned well in the BMW.
The iX3 once again performed admirably in the Crash Protection segment. ANCAP describes it as having a mature level of protection, being able to minimize harm to passengers of multiple body types in the event of a collision. With the iX3 also being equipped with an ‘eCall’ system that automatically relays critical information to emergency services, ANCAP gives it full marks in the Post Crash category.
All in all, this marks another five-star ANCAP rating for BMW. The German brand has never dipped below a four-star rating—impressive work as it steadily adds more electrification to its lineup. That said, manufacturers may need to be aware of the higher level of scrutiny coming from ANCAP moving forward, which is good news for everyone on the road.
Which cars do you want to see ANCAP test next with its updated safety requirements? Let us know in the comments.
