Following a leak earlier this year, BMW has officially unveiled the facelifted iX3. Set to debut at the Munich Motor Show, the updated model has been equipped with a larger kidney grille that features a single-piece frame. It’s flanked by slimmer LED headlights, although laser lights will be optional. The changes don’t stop there as the iX3 now comes standard with the M Sport package. It features more aggressive fascias and a sporty rear diffuser. Rounding out the highlights are three-dimensional taillights and 19- or 20-inch wheels with an aerodynamic design.
Bigger changes occur in the cabin as drivers will find a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 12.3- or 12.5-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by new switchgear, a revamped center console and a new shifter. Buyers will also find new Aluminum Rhombicle dark finish trim as well as newly standard sport seats wrapped in perforated Sensatec upholstery. The latter can also be equipped with leather upon request.
On the performance front, there’s an 80 kWh battery pack which feeds a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 282 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This setup enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 180 km/h. More importantly, the crossover has a range of up to 460 km in the WLTP test cycle.
When the battery is low, owners will be thankful for the iX3’s 150 kW fast charging capability. It enables the model to be given approximately 100 km of range in 10 minutes. At home with an 11 kW BMW Wallbox, the crossover can go from a 0-100% charge in around 7.5 hours. The facelifted iX3 will go into production this September and be built in China for both domestic and export markets. The model will arrive in Europe this fall, where it will cost € 67,300 (US$ 78,878) including VAT.
European models will offer two equipment lines including an “Inspiring” variant that comes with metallic paintwork, a panoramic glass roof and an automatic tailgate. Buyers will also find an adaptive suspension, power seats, a sport steering wheel, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system with pre-heating and pre-conditioning functions.
Customers looking for more luxury can upgrade to the “Impressive” version, which adds acoustic glass and 20-inch wheels. Other highlights include a head-up display, Vernasca leather and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
