New BMW X3 PHEV is Bigger, Better & Bolder.
New BMW X3 PHEV is Bigger, Better and Bolder.
The New BMW X3 is now in its fourth generation, and it benefits from a substantial exterior overhaul, along with chassis revisions to keep it at the top of the mid-size premium SUV market. In addition to the X3 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) tested (badged X3 30e xDrive), the new X3 is also available with mild-hybrid petrol (X3 20 xDrive) and diesel (X3 20d xDrive) engines, along with a petrol-powered M50 xDrive unit which is reserved for the high-performance M model. All variants of the new X3 come with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission as standard, and buyers can choose between xLine, M Sport and M Model specifications.
Impressive Road Presence.
Expansive, clearly drawn surfaces give the exterior of the new X3 an almost monolithic appearance, with crisp body lines that add to the elegant look. Its front exudes an impressive presence and, below the towering bonnet, the kidney grille and distinctive headlights make a powerful statement. Its roofline extends far back and blends perfectly into the functional luggage compartment, while horizontal lines at the rear accentuate the width of the vehicle.
Petrol/Electric Powertrain.
The new Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variant of the new X3 represents BMW’s strategic approach to meeting increasingly stringent emissions regulations, whilst still catering to drivers who demand engaging performance. The X3 PHEV cleverly combines traditional internal combustion power with electric assistance, resulting in a vehicle that offers impressive efficiency figures, without sacrificing the sporty character within. The electric motor draws power from a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 14.3kWh, providing an electric-only range of up to 88km under WLTP testing conditions. This represents a significant improvement over the previous generation, and may very well provide enough zero-emission driving capability for the typical daily commute of many drivers. When the battery is depleted, the transition to petrol power occurs seamlessly, with the engine engaging with ultimate refinement. The battery pack is located beneath the rear seats and boot floor, and this contributes to a lower centre of gravity compared to conventional X3 models. This results in enhanced driving dynamics, reduced body roll, and improved agility through corners. Additionally, the ratio of front to rear weight distribution is very close to the perfect 50:50 balance, further enhancing the X3 PHEV’s graceful road manners, despite the additional weight of the hybrid components.
BMW Curved Display.
The spacious interior of the new X3 PHEV exudes a contemporary, comfortable ambience. Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, with extensive use of soft-touch surfaces, genuine aluminium trim, and optional open-pore wood finishes. The M Sport trim grade adds sports seats that provide excellent support during spirited driving whilst remaining comfortable on longer journeys. Despite accommodating the hybrid system’s battery pack, BMW’s engineers have minimised the impact on interior space. The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats maintain their flexibility, and rear passengers benefit from generous leg and head room. The driver cockpit includes state-of-the-art technology and the ultimate in operating convenience, thanks to a 14.9-inch BMW Curved Display, dynamic lighting composition, and BMW ‘s clever Smart Bar, and Light Bar technology. The My BMW app provides a direct link to your BMW, and it enables the driver to check their vehicle’s status, compare petrol station prices, arrange a service appointment, and much more. BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 provides intuitive control via touchscreen, rotary controller, or gesture control. Wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ comes as standard, as does augmented reality navigation and over-the-air update capability.
Test Car Details.
My Test car was a new BMW X3 30e xDrive M Sport, which was finished in Dune Grey metallic paintwork with Calm Beige Veganza perforated and quilted synthetic leather upholstery. Optional equipment fitted to the vehicle include striking 21-inch M Light alloy wheels, sun protection glass, and a Comfort Pack which consists of front lumbar support, Travel and Comfort System, and adaptive LED headlights. An optional M Sport Package Pro was also fitted, and this includes M Sport seat belts, BMW Individual Lights Shadow Line, M Sport brakes with red calipers, BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line with extended contents, and BMW’s distinctive Iconic Glow kidney grille for maximum visual impact during night-time driving. For the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, BMW has paired a refined 2.0-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine with a powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. A distinctive feature of this powertrain is the ‘XtraBoost’ function, which is activated when the driver engages Sport mode, provided the battery has sufficient charge. This temporary performance enhancement unlocks the full potential of both power sources simultaneously, delivering maximum acceleration for overtaking, or spirited driving. With a combined output of 295bhp (299PS) and 450Nm of torque, the car can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 6.2-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 215km/h (where permitted). The immediate torque delivery from the electric motor eliminates turbo lag and provides a seamless power delivery that makes the driving experience more fluid and intuitive. BMW quote an official WLTP fuel consumption figure as low as 1 litre of petrol for every 100 kilometres driven on a combined driving cycle, but this does very much depend on the type of journeys undertaken, driving style, weather conditions, and other external factors. BMW has thoroughly revised the chassis for the new X3, with particular attention paid to balancing the additional weight of the hybrid system, and this results in an outstanding driving experience. The steering is light when it needs to be, with consistent weighting and a natural buildup of resistance as cornering forces increase. The braking system seamlessly integrates regenerative and friction braking, making smooth stops effortless. The new X3’s overall ride quality is impressive too, and it can wear its premium BMW badge with pride. For those who aren’t quite ready to go for one of the many fully-electric BMW’s currently on sale, the new X3 PHEV is a highly commendable first step towards electrification.
Verdict & Price.
With its balanced chassis, responsive powertrain, and impressive weight distribution, the new X3 30e PHEV M Sport delivers genuinely engaging driving dynamics that reward the driver with a thrilling driving experience when required, whilst remaining composed during everyday driving. With its intelligent power management system, along with a respectable 88km electric-only range, the PHEV is impressively fuel-efficient, and if charged regularly, drivers will reap the environmental and financial rewards. The new BMW X3 PHEV is priced from €70,405 for the 30e xDrive xLine model.
Visit www.bmw.ie for further information.
