The BMW X3 is one of the brand’s most popular models, so it comes as little surprise the automaker has decided to base its next electric vehicle on the crossover.
Previewed by the iX3 concept, the production model closely resembles the standard crossover. Despite the styling similarities, there are a handful of changes which indicate this isn’t your typical X3.
The biggest changes occur up front as the iX3 has a fully enclosed grille. While the design is hidden beneath heavy camouflage, it’s possible the component could echo the controversial connected grille seen on the concept.
The new grille isn’t the only styling change as we can see a modestly revised lower air intake that is similar to the one used on the concept. The crossover has also been equipped with a more aerodynamic front bumper.
Additional styling changes are limited, but the crossover has a new rear bumper which lacks exhaust cut outs. The production model could also come equipped with aerodynamically optimized wheels, but they’re missing on this particular prototype.
Spy photographers didn’t get close enough to snap interior photos, but the cabin is largely expected to carryover. However, there should be a revised instrument cluster and EV-specific displays for the iDrive infotainment system. The model could also have subtle touches to indicate it’s an electric vehicle, but nothing is official as of yet.
BMW has been tight-lipped about performance specifications, but the concept featured a 70+ kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor that developed more than 266 hp (199 kW / 270 PS). This enabled the model to have a range in excess of 249 miles (400 km) in the WLTP cycle.
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