All-electric BMW iX3 confirmed for PH market

The iX will not be the only BMW in the country that will provide customers sheer (electric) driving pleasure in the not-so-distant future. Soon, the Bavarian automaker's all-electric lineup in the country will also include the all-new iX3.

This was confirmed by BMW Philippines distributor SMC Asia Cars Distributors Inc. Unlike the iX which sits on a dedicated EV platform, the iX3 is based on the X3's underpinnings. This means the iX3 will serve as a more affordable EV over the flagship iX crossover.

Official specifications and details about the PH-spec iX3 are not yet available. But a quick look at international markets and we have a good idea as to what propels the upcoming EV. Instead of an internal combustion engine, the iX3 is powered by an electric motor that puts out 286 PS and 400 Nm of torque. An 80 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides the necessary juice which allows the iX3 to travel for an estimated 460 km on a full charge.

With a standard charging system, the iX3 can be fully charged to 100% in 7.5 hours. But with the use of a 150 kW fast-charging station, BMW says the crossover can be recharged to 80% in as little as 34 minutes. Speaking of fast, the iX3 can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 180 km/h.

Style-wise, the iX3 slightly differs in terms of exterior design. It still comes with the traditional kidney grille but gets a unique pattern instead of slats. Both the front bumper and alloy wheels have been redesigned to be more aerodynamic to eke out every possible kilometer from its battery pack. As far as amenities are concerned, the crossover will be available with a pair of 12.3-inch digital displays, a full-leather interior, a Harman Kardon sound system, as well as three-zone automatic climate control.

No exact date or timeline was given as to when BMW will launch it in the country. They only mentioned that they plan on revealing it sometime next year.

If you're still holding out on getting the flagship iX EV, perhaps the smaller iX3 will be more enticing for those that prefer something smaller and carries the signature BMW look.