BMW Australia will strengthen its portfolio of electrified models with launch of the X3 xDrive30e PHEV at the end of this year, with the fully electric iX3 landing at the same time, confirming the X3 as offering the widest selection of powertrains in the segment.
The xDrive30e features a four-cylinder petrol engine and powerful electric motor, which combine to produce 215kW of power that is transmitted to all four wheels. The advanced lithium-ion high-voltage battery enables a fully electric range of more than 40km.
The new PHEV model headlines the refreshed BMW X3 line-up, which, alongside the similarly updated X4 range, will arrive in Australia for customer deliveries in Q4, and boasts a modernised appearance that conveys a more powerful presence.
Changes to the front and rear include a new BMW kidney grille, which is now a more strikingly shaped single piece frame, narrower headlights, front apron and rear bumper, while new graphics have been applied to the rear lights.
In addition to the standard fit adaptive LED headlights with matrix function, where the adverse weather light takes on the function of the previously separate fog lights, BMW Laserlight (with a range of up to 650 metres) is now also available as an optional extra.
Below the headlights, vertical air intakes arranged in a triangular interpretation frame the front bumper. Taut and amply sized surfaces in body colour and the robust underbody protection reinforce the X3’s commanding road presence.
The BMW X3 xDrive30e also bears an ‘electrified by i’ emblem on the front wing, while an additional blue ring adorns all its BMW logos, including those on the wheel hub covers. The rear section of the new BMW X3 offers greater clarity too.
A black border provides the full LED rear lights a more precise appearance, while the narrower light graphic now includes a three-dimensionally modelled pincer contour and horizontal turn signals integrated in a filigree style.
The emphasis on horizontal lines, including in the concave area at the lower end of the tailgate, contributes to the clean impression of the rear.
The newly designed and painted underbody protection provides a prominent finish and combines with the new, flush-fitting free-form tailpipe trims that are larger and sportier in appearance.
The M Sport package, which is fitted to the X3 xDrive30i, X3 xDrive30d and X3 xDrive30e as standard, further emphasises the dynamic genes of BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept.
The range topping X3 M40i meanwhile prominently displays its strong links with the BMW M high performance stable. Further details, including pricing, will be announced closer to the X3 range’s local launch.
