By Otsile Kadiege

BMW’s X3 recently received a nip and tuck. So, the automaker saw it fitting to also update its fully-electric iX3, which was revealed to the world last year, with new looks to match with the rest of the range.

Minor exterior updates

The refreshed BMW iX3 boasts subtle exterior updates. Up front, the iX3 features newly designed front-end with a larger kidney grille, a slim set of Adaptive LED Headlights or the optional BMW Laser light and a redesigned sporty front bumper. 

Much of its side profile remains unchanged, however, customers can opt for M aerodynamic 20-inch wheels. Alternatively, the iX3 is fitted with standard 19-inch aerodynamic wheels. A prominent change to the rear-end is the striking, three-dimensional LED rear lights. As standard, the BMW iX3 is kitted with M Sport package as standard.

Updated interior

Much of the iX3’s interior design remains untouched, however, it features a newly designed control panel on the centre console for the gear selector lever, BMW Controller, Start/Stop button and the buttons for the Driving Experience Control switch and parking brake. It also features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and large 12.5-inch touchscreen with the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional system. 

The iX3 is fitted with Sport seats as standard in the new Sensatec perforated upholstery variant and interior trim strips in the new Aluminium Rhombicle dark finish come as standard.  

Plugged-in performance 

Powering the rear-wheel drive only iX3 is BMW’s newly developed fifth generation eDrive electric motor. It produces 210 kW of power, 400 Nm of torque and takes 6.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h. With range preservation in mind, the iX3’s top speed is limited to 180 km/h.

The iX3 has an 80-kWh battery pack (74 kWh is usable) which translate to a WLTP range of 460 km. It has a charging capacity of up to 150-kW at DC fast charging stations which will charge the battery from 0 – 80 percent in 34 minutes. Charging for 10 minutes translates to 100 km.

Pricing and availability

The new BMW iX3 is earmarked for 2021 local introduction. Pricing and specifications should be unveiled towards the launch date.