After a lengthy teaser campaign, BMW has
announced the 2021 iX3 will be given a digital unveiling on July 14th at 10:00
AM CEST (4:00 AM ET). Set to become the brand’s first electric crossover, the
iX3 is based on the X3 and features an aerodynamically optimized exterior and
an electric powertrain.
While the latest teaser image isn’t very
revealing, previous leaks have shown the crossover will have a unique front end
that closely echoes the one used on the iX3 concept. Key changes will include a
fully enclosed grille and an angular bumper that channels air into new vertical
intakes.
Elsewhere, designers gave the model
i-branded front fender vents and aerodynamic wheels. The latter are constructed
out of aluminum and feature angular accents which help to reduce drag by
approximately 5%. BMW has said the combination of lightweight construction and
aerodynamic styling enables the wheels to increase the iX3’s range by 10 km.
Of course, the rear end is also unique as
the iX3 doesn’t need a traditional exhaust system. As a result, the crossover
has been equipped with a new bumper that features a split diffuser. While full
details will be announced next week, the iX3 will have a rear-mounted electric
motor that produces 282 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
The crossover will also have a 74 kWh battery pack that will allow for a range
of approximately 440 km in the WLTP cycle.
The iX3 will be built in China and is
slated to go into production shortly. The model will be available in a number
of different countries, but it won’t be offered in the United States.
