BMW’s new iX3, built on the innovative "Neue Klasse" platform, aims to address a primary concern for electric vehicle drivers: long-distance travel. This battery-powered SUV offers a substantial driving range coupled with charging speeds that outperform many competitors.
The key to this capability is the advanced 800V electrical system powering the iX3. BMW officially states that the vehicle supports an impressive maximum of 400 kW DC fast charging. This high charging rate is enabled by the car’s sixth-generation battery technology, which utilizes new cylindrical cells designed to store more energy and charge faster than traditional prismatic cells. Under optimal conditions, BMW claims the iX3 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes.
While manufacturer figures often represent ideal scenarios, a recent real-world test in Spain demonstrated the iX3’s impressive performance close to these claims. Journalists tested the iX3 50 xDrive at an Ionity fast-charging station capable of delivering up to 350 kW.
With the vehicle's navigation system preconditioning the battery for charging, the iX3 was plugged in at a respectable 45% state of charge (SoC). It immediately reached a peak charging rate of 321 kW—remarkably fast for a battery nearly half full. Even as the battery filled and charging speeds typically decline, the iX3 maintained an average rate around 250 kW, adding approximately 21 kWh in just five minutes.
The iX3 50 xDrive features a sizable 108.7 kWh battery pack, offering an impressive driving range that significantly reduces range anxiety. Official European WLTP tests rate the range up to 805 km per full charge, with real-world estimates remaining comfortably above 600 km. This performance makes long-distance travel feasible and convenient.
Performance-wise, the iX3 is equipped with an all-wheel-drive xDrive system powered by dual electric motors producing a combined 469 horsepower and 645 Nm of torque. This enables the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h.
Beyond its electric performance, the iX3 functions as a practical family SUV. It measures 4.78 m in length, 1.89 m in width, and 1.63 m in height, with a long 2.89 m wheelbase offering ample interior space. The cargo capacity includes 520 liters behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,750 liters with the seats folded down. Additionally, a front trunk (“frunk”) provides an extra 58 liters of storage space.
This blend of cutting-edge charging technology, extended range, and practical dimensions positions the new iX3 as a leading contender in the premium electric SUV market. Starting at around €68,000 in Europe, BMW’s new electric SUV narrows the gap between performance and range, offering an appealing package for buyers.
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