Automotive Design: Moroccan-born Frank Stephenson slams the new BMW iX3

The BMW iX3 inaugurates a strategic era for the Munich-based manufacturer with the "Neue Klasse" platform. This stylistic and technological shift, which is set to extend to forty models by the end of 2027, however, does not convince Frank Stephenson, one of the fathers of the first X5 and the modern Mini.

In an interview with Top Gear, the designer described the electric SUV as "visually shocking". He points in particular to a "too pinched" grille featuring a "beaver tooth" graphic and a front bumper that he considers "unnecessarily loaded" for a vehicle that does not require thermal cooling.

Stephenson, whose CV features icons like the Ferrari F430 or the McLaren P1, believes that the iX3 lacks "visual presence". He describes the rear part as "generic" and regrets the abandonment of the brand’s traditional lights. "Good try, but better luck next time," he concluded.

Despite these acerbic criticisms from a great name in design, BMW’s polarizing approach seems to be bearing commercial fruit. The manufacturer is currently outpacing Mercedes and Audi in the premium segment, proving that stylistic boldness, although divisive, does not hinder the dynamics of the firm’s global sales.