BMW’s electrical automobile lineup continues to increase, providing a spread of choices tailor-made to totally different wants and preferences. Amongst these, the BMW iX1 (U11) and the BMW iX3 (G08) are two fashions which have gained vital consideration in Europe and different markets outdoors the US. Each autos embody BMW’s dedication to electrification, but they cater to distinct segments throughout the EV market. On this article, we’ll dive into an in depth comparability of the BMW iX1 and iX3, specializing in their design, efficiency, vary and total worth.
It’s necessary to notice that whereas the present iX3 is constructed on BMW’s versatile CLAR platform, there’s a new BMW iX3 (codename NA5) scheduled to reach in late 2025. This upcoming mannequin will probably be constructed on the Neue Klasse platform, a devoted electrical automobile structure that guarantees to boost efficiency, effectivity, and design flexibility even additional. Nevertheless, for now, our focus stays on the present iX1 and iX3.
Overview: Two Electrical SUVs, Two Distinct Identities
The BMW iX1 is BMW’s entry-level electrical SUV, based mostly on the brand new front-wheel drive X1 platform (U11), and is designed to supply a compact, city-friendly choice for city dwellers and small households. Alternatively, the BMW iX3 is a bigger, extra premium providing, based mostly on the CLAR (RWD) X3 platform, and is geared toward those that want extra space and a barely extra luxurious expertise with out leaping into the full-sized iX or iX5. One of many key distinctions between these two fashions is the truth that the iX1 might be had with a rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive setup, whereas the iX3 solely sends the ability to the rear wheels.
Nevertheless, the implementation and driving dynamics differ between the 2. The iX3 handles with typical BMW stability and rear wheel spin which may very well be a bit extra enjoyable. The iX1 is your typical front-wheel drive with a slight understeer, but loads of grip from the front-wheels.
BMW iX1 eDrive20 and BMW iX3 RWD
To make this comparability considerably truthful, we’re going to select the identical drivetrains. Within the case of the iX1, that’s the eDrive20 mannequin. The brand new entry-level iX1 mannequin generates an instantaneously out there most torque of 250 Nm along with the utmost output of 204 hp. The compact SAV accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds. Its prime pace is electronically restricted to 170 km/h.
The BMW iX3 holds a transparent benefit as a result of its extra highly effective electrical motor and bigger battery pack. The iX3’s motor produces as much as 282 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, permitting it to speed up from 0 to 60 mph in just below 6.8 seconds. The iX1, whereas much less highly effective, nonetheless presents respectable efficiency for its class, with its electrical motor delivering round 282 horsepower and 295 Nm of torque, leading to a 0 to 60 mph time of round 6.2 seconds.
For the sake of argument, let’s have a look at the specs of the BMW iX1 xDrive30 additionally. The twin electrical motors make 314 horsepower and 364 lb-ft (494 Nm) of torque, which is sufficient to hurl the 4,430-pound (2,010-kg) iX1 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds (0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds).
Electrical Vary and Charging
By way of vary, the BMW iX3 additionally has the higher hand, due to its bigger battery capability. The iX3 can obtain as much as 286 miles (460 km) on a single cost beneath the WLTP cycle, making it a robust contender for individuals who require an extended driving vary. It has a battery capability of 74kWh usable. The iX1, with its smaller battery (64.7 kWh), presents a spread of as much as 272 miles (438 km) beneath the WLTP cycle, which remains to be spectacular for a automobile of its dimension however might require extra frequent charging on lengthy journeys. The iX1 xDrive30 has a WLTP vary of 278 miles (440 km).
BMW iX1 Charging Capability
The BMW iX1 helps a most DC quick charging energy of 135 kW. Beneath optimum circumstances, this enables the iX1 to cost from 10% to 80% in roughly 29 minutes. For AC charging at dwelling or public stations, the iX1 can cost at as much as 11 kW utilizing a normal three-phase charger, which usually takes round 6.5 to 7 hours to completely cost the battery.
BMW iX3 Charging Capability
The BMW iX3, being a bigger and extra premium mannequin, presents barely sooner DC quick charging capabilities with a most energy of 150 kW. This allows the iX3 to cost from 10% to 80% in about 33 minutes. That is doubtless because of the totally different charging curves. The most recent electrical BMWs include a extra aggressive curve which fills up the battery a bit sooner earlier than truly fizzling out. Just like the iX1, the iX3 additionally helps AC charging at a most of 11 kW, with a full cost taking roughly 7.5 hours when utilizing a three-phase dwelling charger.
Design and Inside Area
Design-wise, the BMW iX1 and iX3 replicate their respective market positions. The iX1 is compact and includes a fashionable, youthful design that aligns with its position as an entry-level mannequin. It presents a snug inside with ample house for passengers and baggage, however its smaller dimensions imply that it’s greatest suited for individuals who prioritize maneuverability and comfort over outright house.
The iX3, alternatively, exudes a extra premium really feel, with a design that’s intently aligned with the usual BMW X3. It additionally stands out with a extra analog inside with iDrive 7, loads of bodily buttons and a smaller display which remains to be adored by many purchasers. After all, the BMW iX3 presents extra inside house, making it a greater choice for households or those that ceaselessly carry extra passengers or cargo. The iX3’s inside can be extra luxurious, with higher-quality supplies and extra options that improve consolation and comfort. The BMW iX1 presents a cargo capability of 490 liters with the rear seats up. The BMW iX3, being a bigger automobile, naturally presents extra cargo house. It offers 510 liters of cargo capability with the rear seats in place.
Pricing
BMW iX1 eDrive20 is priced from €48,400 in Germany whereas the iX1 xDrive30 begins at €55,500. The BMW iX3, positioned as a extra premium electrical SUV, is priced at €687,300.
Conclusion: Which One Is Proper for You?
The selection between the BMW iX1 and the BMW iX3 in the end comes right down to your particular wants and preferences. Should you’re on the lookout for a compact, city-friendly electrical SUV with agile dealing with and ample vary for day by day driving, the iX1 is a good alternative. Its all-wheel drive system can be extra helpful in case you usually encounter snow.
Nevertheless, in case you want extra space, energy, and vary, the BMW iX3 is the higher choice. Its RWD system delivers robust efficiency and stability, notably on curvy roads, whereas its extra spacious and splendid inside makes it a extra versatile automobile total.
First printed by https://www.bmwblog.com
