BMW iX3 – What You Need to Know
If you’re looking for a premium electric SUV that feels like a regular BMW, the iX3 might be the answer. It’s basically the X3 you already know, but with a battery and an electric motor under the hood. That means you get the same cabin quality, ride comfort and tech, while cutting out the petrol smell and fuel stops.
Why does this matter? Because more people want an EV that doesn’t feel like a compromise. The iX3 tries to give you the best of both worlds – the classic BMW driving feel and the low‑cost running of an electric car.
Key Specs and Performance
The iX3 is powered by a single electric motor that makes about 286 horsepower and 295 lb‑ft of torque. It sends power to the rear wheels, so the handling is very familiar to anyone who has driven a rear‑wheel‑drive BMW before. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is around 6.8 seconds, which feels quick enough for daily driving and a bit of fun on the open road.
Battery capacity is 74 kWh, and the pack is placed low in the chassis. That gives the iX3 a low centre of gravity, helping the car stay planted in corners. Inside, you’ll find the same iDrive screen, digital instrument cluster and optional premium sound system that you get in the X3.
Safety tech includes adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. All of these come as standard in most markets, so you get a safe ride without adding extra cost.
Real‑world Range and Charging
Official WLTP range is about 285 miles, but real‑world numbers depend on driving style, temperature and terrain. Most owners report getting 230‑250 miles on a full charge in everyday use. That’s enough for a typical work week and a weekend trip with a few charging stops.
Charging is simple. At a home wallbox (7.4 kW) you can fill the battery from 0 to 80 % in roughly 7 hours. Public DC fast chargers (up to 150 kW) top up from 10 % to 80 % in about 30‑35 minutes. BMW’s Network also lets you locate chargers and start sessions straight from the car’s infotainment screen.
One tip to stretch the range: use the Eco Pro mode, keep the climate system at a moderate temperature, and try to drive at a steady speed on highways. These small habits can add 20‑30 miles to your real‑world range.
When it comes to price, the iX3 starts around £55,000 in the UK, which is a few thousand more than the petrol X3. However, you save on fuel, lower maintenance and possible tax breaks, so the total cost of ownership can be lower over five years.
Overall, the BMW iX3 is a solid choice if you want a premium feel, familiar driving dynamics and the benefits of an electric powertrain. It doesn’t try to be a sports car, but it delivers a smooth, confident ride that works well for families, commuters and anyone who enjoys a bit of luxury without the gas station visits.
BMW iX3 debuts with 805 km range: first Neue Klasse EV brings 800-volt tech and rare-earth-free motors
BMW has revealed the first Neue Klasse production model, the iX3, with a claimed 805 km range and major efficiency gains. The 50 xDrive version packs 345 kW, hits 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, and tows up to two tonnes. Highlights include 800-volt architecture, silicon carbide power electronics, and motors that avoid rare earths. Design nods to classic BMWs while pushing aerodynamics to a 0.24 Cd.
