Luxury compact crossover was redesigned last year. The styling of the new generation is still fresh and engineers will be focused on launching the electric drivetrain for 2021 BMW X3. The vehicle is going to appear as the iX3 and we will soon see its premiere. The German manufacturer missed last year’s Detroit Auto Show. This time, they could be there with a new unit.
The development of the electric 2021 BMW X3 is going well. For a quite while we are getting pieces of information about its arrival. Lately, we could spot test mules, which means the vehicle is almost ready for a debut. Besides the new model and the base version, the star of the lineup is the X3M with the most powerful setups. In the Competition mode, you will see the compact crossover reaching 500 horsepower.
The downside of this vehicle is its price. Not only that a base MSRP is high, but also upgrades. Still, it is hard to match the luxury of German carmakers and the BMW is a leading force in the market. Still, $71,000 is too much for a small SUV. You can buy a big rig with premium equipment for this money.
All-Electric iX3: What Is It And When We Can Expect It?
When the iX3 took off a part of its camo, we could spot changes compared to the standard crossover. The electric version of X3 is using a special edition of wheels, called Aerodynamic. This is an advanced technology that will help the vehicle reduce a drag. Wheels are made of mixed materials, but BMW is not unveiling its secret recipe.
The carmaker announced specs plan for the iX3. A 74 kWh battery will provide a range of 275 miles, which is more than enough to be competitive with other electric crossovers. At the same time, the motor is good for more than 280 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. We will see if the vehicle is bringing an autonomous drive. BMW promised Level 4 in the near future. The EV is coming later this year for sure. The company is not going to announce the precise range and price until the iX3 shows up.
2021 BMW X3 Specs
The base 2021 BMW X3 will continue to use a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that sends power to rear wheels by default. The powerplant is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and delivers 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive (xDrive) is available as an optional upgrade, or standard if you choose a higher trim level. A four-pot unit is the most efficient one in the lineup with 27 mpg combined.
An I6 drops the mileage to 23 mpg. But, you will gain 107 ponies and 110 lb-ft with a 3.0-liter displacement. The turbocharged unit is forwarding energy to all four corners. You will find this drivetrain under the M40i package.
2021 BMW X3M: Specs and Upgrades
The 2021 BMW X3M is top of the line model. Just look at these numbers: power – 473 hp; torque – 442 pound-feet; max speed – 155 mph; 0-60 acceleration – 4 seconds. There is no wonder why it costs as a full-size model. An inline-six engine is getting a twin-turbo system to be able to offer these outputs. Plus, the M badge brings serious upgrades of the exterior and interior, making the crossover more aerodynamic and comfortable.
This is not all since there is a notable upgrade available for this model. If you pick the Competition package, the 2021 BMW X3 M will be able to burst 30 ponies more and drop the sprint time under 4 seconds.
Pros and Cons
We already mentioned the biggest downside of the 2021 BMW X3 – the price. For $43,000 you can buy a much larger unit than the compact crossover. Still, with all seats folded, the X3 has 63 cubic feet of cargo space. Designers packed the vehicle with the latest technology. But, one thing is missing – Android Auto. Apple CarPlay is standard, as well as 3-zone climate control, power tailgate, 12-speaker audio, and 10-inch screen as the center of information system. Plus, the driving is very precise and BMW is offering both RWD and AWD modes. Of course, we recommend the xDrive as one of the best systems in the market.
2021 BMW X3 Prices, Competition
The base 2021 BMW X3 will cost $43,000. If you want an inline-six engine and extra power, you will have to chip in with $13,000. The X3M is the most expensive thing you will find in the lineup with the MSRP above $70,000. The Competition package with 500 hp will make it closer to $80k. This one is capable to compete with Mercedes AMG GLC 63 crossover. Still, you can find cheaper offers if you opt for Lexus NX, Acura RDX, or Cadillac XT5. Volvo is also launching the electric version of its XC40, and the Jaguar I-Pace is another option if you are after such a motor for your compact crossover.
