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With the Neue Klasse, BMW introduces its most progressive and human-centric driving environment design to date. At the heart of it is the new BMW Panoramic iDrive: a sleek, driver-focused interface that brings intelligence, clarity, and a new kind of freedom into the cabin. But how does it really work? What’s new about it? And above all: how will you, as the driver, feel once you sit behind the wheel for the first time?
To find out, we spoke to two experts behind the system to understand the most important ways the new BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X changes the relationship between driver and machine. And why, more than ever, it just feels right.
With gestures, swipes and voice commands, the new iDrive builds on how we already use digital interfaces. It’s futuristic, but everything still works the way you already know.
We didn’t want to lose anyone, even with entirely new features. It should feel familiar from the start, so that everyone can use it and feel confident from the first second.
BMW UX Concept Engineer
Despite the capabilities under the hood, the BMW Panoramic iDrive oozes calmness and reduced clarity. Instead of bombarding the driver with input, the iDrive delivers exactly what’s needed, when it’s needed.
The real art is removing complexity. That’s the biggest benefit for the customer: to make sure everything makes sense and is clear so the driver can focus on what really matters.
BMW UX Concept Engineer
The BMW Panoramic iDrive isn’t static, because no one solution will stay the right fit forever. Over-the-air updates keep the system fresh and relevant, unlocking new features and functionality over time.
The architecture is open for what's to come. Needs may change, but we have made sure it’s a system that evolves with you.
BMW UI Designer
While everything about the new driving environment is modern, the design logic is unmistakably BMW. The driver remains in focus, with all essential controls exactly where you’d expect them. Driver orientation is alive and well but reimagined for your benefit.
Even with a completely updated system, like this, the driver always remains at the centre. This is central to our history and identity, so that was non-negotiable.
BMW UI Designer
Your view, your choice: From layout to content to visual style, everything in the new iDrive is configurable. Want a minimal layout? Or all your performance stats in view? You decide what you see, and how you see it.
We created the greatest freedom drivers have ever had. We didn’t want to push anything on anyone. You have the freedom to only see and use what you feel like you need, nothing else.
BMW UI Designer
Voice, touch, controller or gesture. As the driver, you should choose how you interact with your car. The system adapts to your preference, not the other way around. What's on screen is always context-aware and above all, clear and easy to reach.
With the BMW Panoramic iDrive, BMW has rethought what a driving environment can be, and what driver orientation really means and feels like. Less about control panels, more about connection. It’s simple. It’s smart. It’s unique. But above all: it’s yours.
Debuting in the Neue Klasse models, the BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X will be featured in all BMW models from late 2025.
We want you to use your car in the way that feels right to you. And it should feel completely natural, regardless of your preferences.
BMW UI Designer
Author: David Barnwell; Art Direction: Verena Aichinger, Lucas Lemuth, Madita O’Sullivan; Photos & Video: BMW
