BMW iX3 The BMW iX3 is a fully electric compact luxury SUV combining BMW’s signature driving dynamics with zero-emission mobility. It features a 286 h p rear-wheel-drive powertrain, up to 460 km (286 miles) of range, and a luxurious interior with advanced tech. With fast charging and sustainable materials, it’s a practical and eco-friendly choice in the premium EV segment.
Overview
- Body Style: 5-door SUV
- Class: Compact luxury crossover
- Powertrain: Fully electric
- Platform: Based on the BMW X3, but adapted for electric propulsion
- Market Launch: First unveiled in 2020, with sales beginning in 2021
Performance
- Electric Motor: Single rear-mounted electric motor (rear-wheel drive)
- Power Output: Approximately 286 horsepower (210 kW)
- Torque: 400 Nm (295 l b-f t)
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): Around 6.8 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 180 km/h (112 mph)
Battery and Range
- Battery Capacity: 80 kWh (74 kWh usable)
- Range: Up to 460 km (286 miles) on the WLTP cycle (varies depending on driving conditions)
Charging:
- DC Fast Charging: Up to 150 kW, allowing 10-80% charge in approximately 32 minutes
- AC Charging: Up to 11 kW for home or public charging
Features
- Exterior Design: Similar to the CONVE BNTIONAL X3 but with aerodynamic enhancements, such as a closed-off grille and unique alloy wheels.
- Interior: Luxurious cabin with premium materials, a digital instrument cluster, and BMW’s latest I Drive infotainment system.
Technology:
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a 12.3-inch digital display
- Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Sustainability: BMW emphasizes eco-friendly materials and production processes for the iX3.
Market Position
- The BMW iX3 is positioned as a more affordable and practical option in BMW’s electric lineup, sitting below the larger and more premium BMW I X. It competes with other electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Audi Q4 e-TRON, and Mercedes-Benz EQC.
Availability
- The iX3 is primarily targeted at markets in Europe and Asia, though it has also been introduced in other regions as part of BMW’s global electrification strategy.
Design
The BMW iX3 retains the familiar design language of the X3 but incorporates subtle changes to optimize aerodynamics and highlight its electric identity:
- Front Grille: A closed-off kidney grille with blue accents to signify its electric powertrain.
- Aerodynamic Wheels: Lightweight, aerodynamic alloy wheels designed to reduce drag and improve efficiency.
- Blue Accents: Subtle blue detailing on the grille, side skirts, and rear bumper to distinguish it from the combustion-engine X3.
- Rear Design: A redesigned rear diffuser and the absence of exhaust pipes emphasize its zero-emission nature.
Interior
The iX3’s interior is luxurious and tech-forward, with a focus on sustainability:
- Materials: Use of recycled materials, such as recycled plastics and sustainable wood trim.
- Digital Cockpit: A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen running BMW’s latest I Drive 7.0 system.
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting to enhance the cabin atmosphere.
- Spaciousness: Similar to the X3, the iX3 offers ample space for five passengers and a practical trunk capacity of 510 liters (expandable to 1,560 liters with the rear seats folded).
Technology
The iX3 is packed with cutting-edge technology:
- I Drive 7.0: BMW’s intuitive infotainment system with voice control, navigation, and smartphone integration (Apple Car Play and Android Auto).
- Connected Services: Real-time traffic updates, remote charging control, and over-the-air software updates.
- Driver Assistance: Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, parking assist, and a 360-degree camera.
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant: A voice-activated assistant that responds to natural language commands.
Driving Experience
The iX3 is designed to deliver a smooth and engaging driving experience:
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Unlike many electric SUVs that use all-wheel drive, the iX3 is rear-wheel drive, offering a dynamic and sporty feel.
- Adaptive Suspension: Optional adaptive suspension for improved comfort and handling.
- Regenerative Braking: Multiple levels of regenerative braking, including a one-pedal driving mode for maximum energy recovery.
- Quiet Cabin: Excellent sound insulation and an acoustic pedestrian warning system for low-speed driving.
Battery and Charging
The iX3’s battery and charging capabilities are competitive in its class:
- Battery Chemistry: Uses BMW’s fifth-generation e Drive technology with lithium-ion cells.
- Efficiency: Achieves an energy consumption of around 19.5 kWh/100 km (WLTP).
Charging Options:
- Home Charging: Compatible with 11 kW AC wall boxes for overnight charging.
- Public Charging: Supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10-80% charge in about 32 minutes.
- Charging Network: Access to BMW’s growing network of charging stations and partnerships with third-party providers.
Sustainability
BMW has made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the iX3:
- Production: Manufactured in China at BMW’s DADONG plant, which uses 100% renewable energy.
- Materials: Extensive use of recycled and sustainable materials in the interior and exterior.
- Carbon Footprint: BMW claims the iX3 has a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to its combustion-engine counterparts.
Competitors
The iX3 competes in the growing electric luxury SUV segment. Key rivals include:
- Tesla Model Y: Known for its performance and tech, but with a more minimalist interior.
- Audi Q4 e-TRON: Offers a similar level of luxury and technology but with a different design philosophy.
- Mercedes-Benz EQC: A more premium option with all-wheel drive and a focus on comfort.
- Jaguar I-PACE: A sportier alternative with all-wheel drive and a distinctive design.
Pricing
Pricing varies by region, but the iX3 is generally positioned as a premium offering:
- Europe: Starting at around €60,000–€70,000 (depending on trim and options).
- China: Priced competitively due to local production.
- Other Markets: Available in select regions with pricing adjusted for local taxes and incentives.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Familiar X3 design with practical space and luxury.
- Smooth and engaging driving dynamics.
- Competitive range and fast-charging capabilities.
- Advanced technology and driver-assistance features.
Cons:
- Rear-wheel drive only (may not appeal to those wanting AWD).
- Less range compared to some competitors like Tesla Model Y.
- Limited availability in some markets.
Future Updates
BMW is continuously updating its electric lineup, and the iX3 is expected to benefit from:
- Software Updates: Regular OTA updates to improve performance, range, and features.
- New Variants: Potential introduction of higher-performance or all-wheel-drive versions in the future.
Engineering and Platform
The BMW iX3 is built on the CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform, which is a flexible architecture designed to accommodate internal combustion engines (ICE), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and fully electric vehicles (EVs). This platform allows BMW to share components across its lineup, reducing costs and development time.
- Fifth-Generation e Drive Technology: The iX3 is the first BMW to feature the fifth-generation e Drive system, which integrates the electric motor, transmission, and power electronics into a single compact unit. This improves efficiency and reduces weight.
- Battery Placement: The battery pack is integrated into the floor, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling.
- Thermal Management: Advanced thermal management systems ensure optimal battery temperature for performance and longevity, even in extreme weather conditions.
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