After unveiling the X5 xDrive45e last year, BMW has given its smaller X3 sibling the plug-in hybrid treatment as part of its electrification strategy. Powering the BMW X3 xDrive30e is a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 184 hp and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission with 109 hp.

This setup produces a combined output of 292 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque, enabling the BMW X3 xDrive30e to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. Power is sent to all four wheels through BMW's XDrive system and an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

By positioning the lithium-ion battery under the rear seat, luggage space has only been slightly restricted, with a cargo capacity of 450 liters (15.8 cu.ft.). Folding down the rear seat with a 40/20/40 split extends the storage space by up to 500 liters (52.9 cu.ft.). The high-voltage battery can be charged at conventional household sockets, which will fully charge the battery in less than six hours. Using a BMW i Wallbox reduces the charging time to around three and a half hours.

The charging socket is located under a separate flap on the front left side wall of the car. In pure EV mode, the BMW xDrive30e is expected to deliver a US-estimated electric-only range of around 20 miles.

In addition to the base model, the BMW X3 xDrive 30e will be available in Advantage, xLine, Luxury and M Sport trims. Standard equipment includes acoustic pedestrian protection, which generates a sound to alert other road users when driving electrically at low speeds, an auxiliary air conditioning system that can be controlled remotely from a smartphone using the BMW Connected app, and new digital services.

Almost the entire range of optional equipment available for the conventionally-powered X3 will also be available for the plug-in hybrid variant, including Adaptive Suspension, a variable sports steering, and a M Sport brake system, head-up display, active cruise control with stop and go function, as well as steering, lane-keeping, and parking assists. The maximum towing capacity is rated at 4,409 pounds.

The new BMW X3 xDrive30e will enter production in December 2019 at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, USA, alongside the conventionally-powered X3. Pricing and US specifications will be confirmed in Q1 2020, which is also when the X3 xDrive30e will go on sale. BMW is also preparing to launch an all-electric iX3 to fight the Mercedes EQC.