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BMW iX3 M Sport 2022

BMW iX3 M Sport model year 2022 on test

BMW has continuously expanded its portfolio with electrified drives in recent years. The BMW iX3 can currently be configured in the "Inspiring" and "Impressive" versions. Production takes place at the Chinese production site in Shenyang of the joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive and is also produced there for worldwide export.

Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology

With the current iX3, the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology has now been introduced. The latest components of Electric motor, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery should have a positive effect on power consumption and range, according to BMW. The new components will also be used in the new iNEXT and i4 models. For the first time, the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are arranged in a common housing. The electric motor of the new BMW iX3 works according to the principle of a current-excited synchronous machine without the use of magnets. According to the manufacturer, this construction makes it possible to completely dispense with raw materials that belong to the so-called rare earths.

According to BMW, the motor efficiency is now up to 93% with the new iX3. The X3 is driven on the rear axle. The new drive unit generates a maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm, which, unlike conventional electric motors, drops less even at high speeds. The BMW iX3 accelerates to 6,8 km/h in 100 seconds. The top speed is capped at 180 km/h. The battery has a gross energy content of 80 kWh, of which 74 kWh are used and the range is specified as up to 460 kilometers in the WLTP test cycle and up to 520 kilometers in the NEDC test cycle.

Consumption values ​​and charging options

With the current model, BMW focuses on high-quality driving experiences, both in the drive unit and in the components used in the interior and the technical equipment. Recuperation has also been optimized for effective energy generation. As an alternative to adaptive recuperation, in driving position D the driver also has the option of setting high, medium or low brake energy regeneration. In addition, he can use the selector lever on the center console to activate gear B, in which the one-pedal feeling characteristic of electric vehicles from the BMW Group is generated with a particularly high level of recuperation.

Adaptive cruise control BMW iX3
Adaptive cruise control BMW iX3

However, if you have the M package for the sports version in the equipment, you will probably mostly be driving in dynamic sports mode. This is where the SUV, which weighs more than 2 tons, develops the best performance and, based on the kilometers we have covered on the motorway, consumes 25 to 30 kWh per 100 km, which means that we can realistically drive a good 300 kilometers before the next charging stop. From our test drives, we can heartily recommend the use of BMW's adaptive cruise control for dynamic long-distance journeys. With the one-touch activation with your thumb on the multifunction steering wheel, all speeds can be quickly and easily adjusted up or down using the rocker switch. With this you can easily unwind more than 500 kilometers and at the end of the route you can get off relaxed.

While sporty performance is achieved in terms of dynamics, charging management is a bit behind in practice. On all test drives in the spring, we were only able to register a maximum of 110 KW charging power at the top with more than five different CCS superchargers from various providers. As with most manufacturers, the demands and reality of the superchargers diverge here. The charging processes then take a little longer in practice. We realized the charge to 80% in the test between 40 and 45 minutes.

Anyone who relies on the Comfort or ECO mode for business trips and vacation trips can still increase the range. At temperatures above 10 degrees, more than 400 kilometers can be achieved thanks to the heat pump and recuperation with a full battery. BMW relies on high variability in the X models. By folding down the rear seat backrest, which can be split 40:20:40, the luggage compartment volume can be increased from 510 to up to 1 liters as required. This means that the storage space can be used extensively for various leisure and holiday activities.

Striking rear view BMW iX3
Striking rear view BMW iX3

There are two equipment variants to choose from

The basic "Inspiring" equipment comprises a multitude of details that are intended to increase comfort, safety and driving pleasure. Metallic paintwork and 19-inch aerodynamic wheels, LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof and automatic tailgate actuation are just as much a part of it as the Driving Assistant Professional including cruise control with stop & go function, steering and lane guidance assistant as well as lane change and lane departure warning , a Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, a tire pressure display and an alarm system.

The expanded "Impressive" equipment package includes 20-inch light alloy wheels in the new aerodynamically optimized design and adaptive LED headlights. In addition, the equipment is expanded to include acoustic glazing for the driver and front passenger side windows, comfort access, Vernasca leather upholstery and sports seats including lumbar support for the driver and front passenger.

BMW iX3 info display
BMW iX3 info display

Conclusion

Dynamism and premium equipment characterize the top model BMW iX3 in the "Impressive" equipment variant. The model is predestined for business trips and holiday trips with its own esprit in terms of driving experience and a finely tuned phalanx of driving assistants that drivers can put together according to their own taste. With the revised look and the wide range of possible applications, the iX3 will assert itself in the premium segment of electric SUVs.

N. Hawthorn
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