New BMW iX3 Gets Bigger Grilles And More Luxury

Aug. 11, 2021 7:34 AM ET by Sebastian Cenizo Reveal / 1 Comment

And America misses out again.

A little over a year ago, BMW revealed the iX3, a crossover that is basically the electric version of the X3. It's not a cheap vehicle, but the pricing doesn't really matter to us in America as BMW says there's no demand for such a vehicle in the US and won't be bringing it in. As a pretty new vehicle, we were surprised to see spy shots that revealed a facelift was imminent, less than six months on from its reveal. We've since seen leaked images showing what the new model would look like, but now BMW has revealed the updated model with styling that brings it line with other recent X-badged crossovers and SUVs.

As the first model to feature BMW eDrive technology, the iX3 offers up to 286 miles of range on the WLTP cycle. Performance remains unchanged with 286 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque going to the rear wheels from the fifth-gen eDrive motor. But there are numerous changes elsewhere, particularly outside.

Larger kidney grilles are joined by headlights around 10 millimeters slimmer than before. The front bumper and rear bumper are now more akin to those seen on the recently refreshed X3 and X4. The rear taillights are also updated, while optional BMW i Blue accents help you tell this apart from the regular model. Furthermore, the M Sport package is now standard, while options include 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels instead of the standard 19s and BMW Laserlight headlamps in place of the standard adaptive LED headlights.

Inside, the control panel around the gear-lever has been redesigned, making it easier to access functions on the two 12.3-inch displays (the infotainment screen is new in this size). The seats have been looked at too and are trimmed in a new Sensatec variant while accenting now comes in Aluminium Rhombicle dark finish as standard. Again, a scattering of blue accents reminds you that you're in an EV. Other features remain largely unchanged over the pre-LCI version, but there could be more announced when the latest iX3 makes its European premiere at the IAA Mobility 2021 event in Munich. Production will get underway in China in September, with these models to be sold in China and Europe from the autumn. Still nothing for the US, unfortunately, but with the base price in Germany at €67,300 ($78,829), it would be some $35,000 than a base 2021 BMW X3.

New BMW iX3 Gets Bigger Grilles And More Luxury

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New BMW iX3 Gets Bigger Grilles And More Luxury

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