BMW iX3 2021


 The BMW iX3 represents a significant reset for BMW’s electric car plans – and not only because it holds the distinction of being the first BMW model to be produced in China for export to key markets.

The iX3 also dispenses with the earlier strategy that called for BMW’s electric models to be based on a dedicated aluminium structure called LifeDrive, as with the similarly named but largely unrelated BMW BMW i3, launched back in 2013. Instead, the new but familiarly styled electric SUV is based on the same CLAR platform as recently facelifted petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid versions of the third-generation BMW X3.

The use of an existing platform might sound like a compromise at a time when rival car makers are busy extolling the advantages of their own dedicated electric car structures, and BMW officials do reveal that some modifications have been undertaken to the structure in the electrification process. But as BMW is quick to point out: “The [CLAR] platform was always conceived to house electric motors and batteries, so the decision to use it was not controversial but actually quite straightforward.”

The iX3’s single electric motor is mounted within the rear axle in quite a compact drivetrain housing that’s claimed to be up to 30% smaller and a good deal lighter than that used by the i3.

Described by BMW as a fifth-generation eDrive system, it delivers 282bhp and 295lb ft to the rear wheels via a single-speed gearbox and an electromechanical Performance Control differential, with three driving modes: Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport.

Despite its rather modest torque, there’s urgency in the new BMW’s step-off qualities, as evidenced by the iX3’s official 0-37mph time of 3.7sec. But as speeds rise and aerodynamic resistance builds, the performance begins to trail off, resulting in a 0-62mph time in Sport mode of 6.8sec, which is 0.7sec slower than that of the four-wheel drive X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid.

This isn’t to suggest that it’s at all slow. Put your foot down and it responds with brisk acceleration, as its official 50-75mph figure of 4.1sec shows. But with 2185kg to haul, its single electric motor lacks the strength of the dual-motor systems of some admittedly larger premium-brand electric-powered SUVs.

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