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BMW launches new 2022 iX3 G08

BMW has refreshed the exterior design of the iX3, with hints of the iX and i4, adding the M Sport Package as standard.

The new BMW iX3 has landed and, perhaps unsurprisingly, it takes its new design cues from its electric relations – the iX and i4. The exterior design refresh has seen the introduction of the M Sport Package as standard in the UK, the kidney grille is now larger than before and has a single-piece frame which comes in Pearl-effect Chrome with a blue accent, the inner surfaces have a mesh-like structure. The headlight contours are now slimmer (by 10mm), helping to give the new iX3 a sharper look. The lower air intake, which comes with ten-stage active air flap control to cool the drive system components and brakes, has grown in size. Changes to the front and rear bumpers and diffusers are joined by a slim light graphic and new (three-dimensional) pincer-shaped indicators.

Aside from the mild styling update the iX3 uses BMW Group’s fifth-generation eDrive technology with which we are already familiar. When using a rapid-charging station the high-voltage battery can be charged from 0 to 80 percent of full capacity in 34-minutes, 62-miles can be added to the car’s driving range in just 10-minutes. The new iX3 offers a range of up to 286-miles on the WLTP test cycle which is good but not game changing.

Two trim levels are on offer – M Sport or M Sport Pro. Four exterior metallic colours are available on the new iX3 including Carbon Black, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue and Sophisto Grey. Black High Gloss exterior trim is standard alongside 19” Black wheels, an automatic tailgate, adaptive suspension, heated steering wheel and panoramic sunroof.

Inside come four colour choices for the Vernasca leather, while a Sensatec dashboard, sun protection glazing, ambient lighting and electric seats are all offered as standard. The M Sport Package provides wireless phone charging, heated front seats and the driver assistance technology such as Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant and BMW Live Cockpit Professional. The M Sport Pro adds a Head-up Display, Harman Kardon surround sound, Gesture Control, Parking Assistant Plus, darkened headlights, automatic high beam assistant, Comfort access and Lumbar support to that list. Both models offer identical performance with 286hp and 295lb ft carrying the new iX3 to 62mph in 6.8-seconds and onto a top speed on 112mph. Prices for the M Sport model start at £59,730, the M Sport Pro is priced at £62,730. Customers who purchase a new iX3 vehicle via a BMW Centre are eligible for both ‘bp pulse’ and ‘IONITY Plus’ charging packages for free for 12 months.

The first UK customer deliveries of the new iX3 are slated to take place from December this year.

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