BMW iX3 electric SUV leaked ahead of debut
An image has appeared online which shows the upcoming BMW iX3 EV in its production form. The SUV is expected to debut later this year and is the first of a full line-up of electric cars that will lead the company's foray into this tech. The iX3 will be followed by the iNext SUV and the i4 sedan.
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On paper, the BMW iX3 will follow the blueprint set by its rivals, the Mercedes EQC and the Audi e-tron. But unlike those SUVs which follow a unique design theme, the iX3 seems to have derived its look from the X3 SUV. The iX3 incorporates BMW's fifth-generation EV hardware in a modular chassis and is powered by a 70 kWh battery that puts out 270 horsepower and has a range of roughly 400 km. The new hardware groups together the electric motor, transmission and power electronics within a new, separate electric drive component leading to gains in packaging, weight-saving and efficiency. The SUV uses BMW's newest battery tech to make it compatible with 150 kWh fast chargers. This means it can get up to 80 per cent charge in 30 minutes.
BMW iX3 concept The picture shows that the iX3's looks do not stray too far from the concept that had debuted at Auto China 2018. Compared to the standard X3, there is a new grille with different kidney-shaped inserts and blue accents. There is a more aerodynamic bumper, blue accents along the side-sills and special low-drag alloy wheels to extract as much range as possible from the powertrain.
There is no word yet on whether the iX3 will come to India, but given that both the EQC and e-tron have been confirmed for our market, it is reasonable to expect the BMW EV SUV to sold here as well.
 Spy image source: cochespias via Instagram