BMW iX3: the brand’s first 100% electric SUV

Are you looking for an electric car for short or long trips? On sale since the end of 2020, the new BMW iX3 is freshly restyled, and is ideal for all journeys. Sportier than ever, it uses the most modern technologies of the BMW group.

Design of the new electric BMW iX3 (2022)

The automaker is launching its first-ever 100% electric SUV, with the new M Sport Kit design available as standard. A new step for BMW!

Exterior

In order to maintain a certain consistency within the range, the 100% electric SUV is very close to the BMW X3. Nevertheless, there are some distinctive points on the iX3. At the front, the grille is almost full, and the bumper is also specific with its thin L-shaped air intakes.

These elements underline the nature of the all-electric. Not to mention the new design of the flat adaptive LED headlights (laser as an option), which bring a harmonious look to the new BMWiX3.

To contrast the body colors and to signal the SUV’s ecological pedigree, there are little hints of blue everywhere. Around the grille, logos, side skirts, or even on the rear diffusers of the vehicle.

After its restyling in August 2021, the BMW iX3 is mounted on a new design of 19-inch alloy wheels, worked to optimize weight and aerodynamics. Finally, to shine brightly, each of the two finishes offers two colors: i Blau and Frozen Grey.

Interior

Enter a warm and bright interior with the panoramic sliding and tilting roof. It opens and closes automatically at the touch of a button or from the radio-controlled key. It is also equipped with a sun shade and a deflector.

Sit back and enjoy the high level of comfort provided by the advanced, perforated Sensatec seats with their refined grain (standard). The leather steering wheel has three spokes on which the multifunction buttons are located.

To add a sporty touch, the decorative inserts are made of aluminum. The impression of quality is there, despite the fact that the iX3 BMW is produced in China.

In the rear, the installation of the battery in the underbody allows to preserve the habitability and offers a nice space for two adults. Nevertheless, the presence of a transmission tunnel obstructs legroom, and disadvantages the middle passenger.

The driver’s station, which is located on the dashboard, combines two screens. The first, 12.3 inches, is fully digital and includes the instruments.

In second, the touch-sensitive Control Display, also 12.3 inches, is equipped with Android and Carplay connectivity. Blue accents are found at the Start/Stop button, which is located on the center console.

Trunk dimensions and volume

The iX3 BMW is 4.73 meters long, 1.89 meters wide and 1.66 meters high. Despite a high curb weight of 2,255 kg, the vehicle’s handling is very similar to that of the X3.

The trunk offers a storage volume of 510 liters and up to 1,560 liters with the rear seats folded. That’s enough for a family of four. The trunk has an underfloor space for charging cables.

Motorization and performance

On the technical side, only one configuration is possible, as opposed to three for the BMW X3 (gasoline, diesel and plug-in hybrid). A fifth-generation electric motor integrated into the rear axle. It develops 286 horsepower (210 kW) and 400 Nm of torque.

With a really heavy weight, the BMWiX3 still offers some response with an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, but not as violent as a Model Y. The German brand limits the maximum speed to 180 km/h.

The electric motor contains no rare earths, making it particularly durable. This iX3 offers several intensities for energy recovery, including a one-pedal mode:

Battery and autonomy

The high-performance lithium-ion battery pack with a gross capacity of 80 kWh (74.3 kWh net) gives the BMW iX3 a range of 453 to 461 km on the highway and 559 to 572 km in the city. It consists of 188 latest generation prismatic cells and 10 modules, and weighs 518 kg.

The latter guarantees additional autonomy, thanks to the recovery of energy during braking. Thus, the electric energy consumption varies from 18.5 to 18.9 kWh/100 km, i.e. 0g in CO2 emissions.

How to recharge the BMW iX3 SUV?

To recharge your BMW iX3, the hatch is located on its right rear wing, and contains a Type 2 + combo CCS socket. The configuration remains classic: at home, on the road or at work.

Count on 30 hours to fill up on a standard domestic socket, and 7h50 on a three-phase Wallbox of 11 kW. Recharge up to 100 km in less than 10 minutes on a high power charging station (150 kW maximum power).

Equipment of the different finishes

The BMWiX3 is based on the M Sport version as standard and is available in two specific trim levels “Inspiring” and “Impressive”.

BMW iX3 Inspiring Model

The main equipment

Optional :

Model BMW iX3 Impressive

In addition to the features of the Inspiring

Optional :

All that’s left is to choose the finish with the equipment that matches your search.

BMW iX3 : prices

Prices for the BMW iX3 start at €72,100 in its entry-level configuration. That’s €10,000 less than the Mercedes EQC, and the Audi Q4 e-Tron. Also, the Inspiring finish is available on long-term leasing (LLD) from €650/month with no down payment.

For cars costing more than €45,000 and up to €60,000, the ecological bonus is limited to €3,000. Beyond that, there is unfortunately no more bonus.

Our opinion

With generous equipment and numerous options, the iX3 BMW is in the good price/equipment category within its range. For daily use, it is recommended to install a fairly powerful terminal at home. This is understandable given the price of this top-of-the-line German model.

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