No longer a novelty, electric cars are quickly becoming the norm. BMW is leading the charge with its most practical EV to date, the new iX3.
Spacious, brisk and ultra-refined, it is so user-friendly that you’d think BMW had been making cars like this for decades.
The iX3 maintains the styling of the regular X3 SUV with some unique design elements such as a modified front grille and rear valance with no exhaust. An M Sport styling and aero package is standard along with LED headlights.
Inside, there’s a welcome simplicity in the display and function of on-board technology, making the transition from driving a petrol or diesel-engine car straightforward. Battery charge status is prominent and general usage stats easy to interpret. Niceties include leather sports seats and a panoramic glass roof. Plus, you can quickly pre-condition the cabin temperature before driving with the BMWconnected App.
Switch power on, engage Drive, and what unfolds more than meets expectations. The 210kW/400Nm electric powertrain produces neither noise nor emissions. From a standstill, the iX3 whizzes away without a decibel of drama, just a wave of instant torque that sweeps you to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds. Not only does the iX3 pick up speed easily, it maintains momentum on motorways with minimal effort. The centre of gravity is low and there’s near 50:50 weight distribution for nicely balanced handling. It even rides very well, too, for a weighty SUV.
Keen drivers will enjoy having a range of distinct driving modes to explore and you can choose your preferred level of brake energy recovery for each. The battery is rated at 80kWh capacity and it’s conceivable that you could achieve a generous 460km range with thoughtful driving and favourable conditions. And rest assured, there is no brain-strain with home charging or fast-charging when out and about.
As for price, electrifying existing cars while maintaining an affordable price point is a challenge, but when you consider the quality, equipment and performance of the premium iX3, there is genuine value to be found in this desirable newbie. It’s another excellent EV from BMW Group, and one that will help sell the EV concept to new-car shoppers previously uncertain about it. Rolling into Aotearoa soon, expect delivery in December.
IN A NUTSHELL BMW iX3
Synchronous electric motor and 80kWh lithium-ion battery, 210kW/400Nm, single-speed transmission, all-wheel xDrive, 19-inch alloys, 4.74m length, 2200kg weight, 0-100km/h 6.8 secs, up to 460km range.
