New BMW iX vs new BMW iX3: verdict
The BMW iX takes a clean-sheet approach to facing the future, but does that make it a better electric SUV than the less radical iX3?...
Our verdict
It may have been designed from the ground up to be an electric SUV, and its interior may be one of the best in the business, but in xDrive40 guise the iX just can’t overcome the iX3. Its battery is smaller, its efficiency poorer and its ride less settled. It doesn’t give its full potential unless you pay far more for the xDrive50 version.
With the range-topping iX3 M Sport Pro, you pay less and get far more for your money. Not only will it go farther on a charge, but it’s also more fun to drive on a winding road. And while its interior can’t match the pizzazz of the iX’s, it’s still beautifully made, its layout is simpler (and has more physical controls) and it’s easily spacious enough for most families.
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1st - BMW iX3
For Loads of standard equipment; handy, physical air conditioning controls; easier-to-use infotainment system; better to drive
Against Some cars will go even farther on a charge; so-so charging speed
Recommended options None
For Stunning interior; seriously spacious inside; virtually no road or wind noise
Against More unsettled ride; expensive to buy; disappointing range
Recommended options Comfort Pack (£2200)
What Car? rating 4 out of 5 stars
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Specifications: BMW iX3 M Sport Pro
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 282bhp
Peak torque 295Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.4sec
30-70mph 5.4sec
Top speed 111mph
30-0mph 8.6m
70-0mph 49.8m
Noise at 30mph 57.9db
Noise at 70mph 64.1db
Kerb weight 2255kg
Tyre size (std) 245/45 R20 (f), 275/40 R20 (r)
Estimated range 200 miles
Official range 282 miles
Efficiency 2.7 mile/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 74.0kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 150kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 11hr 45min
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 33min
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: BMW iX xDrive40 Sport
Engine Two electric motors
Peak power 322bhp
Peak torque 456Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.0sec
30-70mph 4.9sec
Top speed 124mph
30-0mph 10.8m
70-0mph 50.8m
Noise at 30mph 57.3db
Noise at 70mph 63.9db
Kerb weight 2365kg
Tyre size (std) 255/50 R21
Estimated range 184 miles
Official range 257 miles
Efficiency 2.6 mile/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 71kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 150kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 11hr 30min
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 31min
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
BMW iX xDrive40 Sport with Sophisto Grey metallic paint (£795), Sky Lounge Pack (£3500), 22in individual alloy wheels (£1350), Interior Design Loft Stone Grey (£450)
BMW iX3 M Sport Pro with Mineral White metallic paint and Black Vernasca leather with blue stitching
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