FiestaST
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TechnoBok review of the new X3 20d
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The BMW X3 Thread
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FiestaST
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Exclusive: 2026 BMW iX3 interior revealed
The all-electric BMW iX3 SUV first graced showrooms in 2021, and now the second generation is ready for a major overhaul. We have spotted another camouflaged test vehicle in Germany and this time we were lucky to get close enough to have a look at its interior.
Rumors and spy shots, including recent glimpses from Munich, Germany, suggest the official reveal isn't too far off, most likely as early as September 2025 at the Munich Auto Show. While the pre-production models are still sporting the automotive equivalent of a secret identity—a swirly camouflage wrap designed to confuse onlookers—some design cues are peeking through.
The headlights appear to feature thicker, more defined LED lines for daytime running lights, giving the BMW iX3 a more assertive look. The signature BMW kidney grille, a point of much discussion in recent years, seems to be a tad smaller and reinterpreted with a more horizontal emphasis, a departure from the current model's more traditional look. Around the back, the taillights have been revamped, ditching their previous oval-like enclosures for straight, aggressive-looking LED strips.
Our first look at the interior reveals a big screen dominating the dashboard, and an M-Power steering wheel, suggesting this test vehicle hides way more under its swirly camouflage. The center console is made of carbon fiber, adding some weight to the suggestion this might be the new M60 xDrive version and the driving mode dial confirms it is a dual-motor model.
This new BMW iX3 is more than just skin deep; it's the pioneering vehicle for BMW's much-vaunted Neue Klasse architecture. This dedicated EV platform is a big deal, promising significant advancements. Think of it as an entirely new skeleton and nervous system for BMW's future electric cars. It will use the company's sixth-generation eDrive technology, featuring new cylindrical battery cells.
www.arenaev.com
The all-electric BMW iX3 SUV first graced showrooms in 2021, and now the second generation is ready for a major overhaul. We have spotted another camouflaged test vehicle in Germany and this time we were lucky to get close enough to have a look at its interior.
Rumors and spy shots, including recent glimpses from Munich, Germany, suggest the official reveal isn't too far off, most likely as early as September 2025 at the Munich Auto Show. While the pre-production models are still sporting the automotive equivalent of a secret identity—a swirly camouflage wrap designed to confuse onlookers—some design cues are peeking through.
The headlights appear to feature thicker, more defined LED lines for daytime running lights, giving the BMW iX3 a more assertive look. The signature BMW kidney grille, a point of much discussion in recent years, seems to be a tad smaller and reinterpreted with a more horizontal emphasis, a departure from the current model's more traditional look. Around the back, the taillights have been revamped, ditching their previous oval-like enclosures for straight, aggressive-looking LED strips.
Our first look at the interior reveals a big screen dominating the dashboard, and an M-Power steering wheel, suggesting this test vehicle hides way more under its swirly camouflage. The center console is made of carbon fiber, adding some weight to the suggestion this might be the new M60 xDrive version and the driving mode dial confirms it is a dual-motor model.
This new BMW iX3 is more than just skin deep; it's the pioneering vehicle for BMW's much-vaunted Neue Klasse architecture. This dedicated EV platform is a big deal, promising significant advancements. Think of it as an entirely new skeleton and nervous system for BMW's future electric cars. It will use the company's sixth-generation eDrive technology, featuring new cylindrical battery cells.
Exclusive: 2026 BMW iX3 interior revealed
We reveal the interior of the upcoming BMW iX3.
www.arenaev.com
FiestaST
Honorary Master
SwitchOff South Africa review of the new X3 30e
Jefferson D'Arcy
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I finally had a go in a G45 with a proper engine and was able to test it on familiar roads, drive it home, play with Sport mode, etc
The frontal styling and interior design are both disasters, taking in the worst aspects of the failed iX and inexplicably flaunting them. Side-on is roughly a bloated MK2 X3 and pretty inoffensive. I quite like the sharp, van-like rear, though the 1 Series hatch is BMW's current best rear and happily, neither of these designs feature the idiotic pontoons afflicting the 2 Series, 5 Series and the two M estate models. Diamond cut wheels are still chintzy looking, something like the silver or bronzey ones you see on later M2s would be better.
That interior... I do like the cloth variations being used for the dash tops but everything else is a very clear cost play made worse with the Chongqing by Night screens. Far too much control is buried in the screens but that is a well-worn complaint and they're not listening. The way I feel it is that 3 decades of BMWs have featured intuitive interiors I have been able to use effectively and immediately, this was not the case with the X3 and I had to dig around iDrive to find basic things I tweak regularly. Most will already know about the silly decision to put motors in the side air vents and tacky touch controls to work them. The fake noise piped into the cabin is less bad but I'd rather not have it at all (even in the G01 it's not nearly as cheesy as what you get in the 4 cylinder stuff like JCWs and 135i's).
Onto the more important oily bits and how it drives, it is very, very good, though completely 'detached' feeling. I couldn't work out how all the driveline lash and the wooliness off idle had been eradicated so effectively. But then I realised the G01 emerged in 2018 and the 45v system came in 2021, meaning many years of progress in refinement of the fueling and the gearbox/throttle tuning. I owned the 2018 M40 and currently have the LCI. The difference in the 3 is marked. We're still on very costly and crap feeling 21in Bridgestone Alenzas. They have the same feel as the tyres you get on a Big Boy 150.
Handling is roughly similar to my G01, possibly a bit less of the fore/aft pitch and dive. The refinement will be very appealing to most people in combination with the generous torque on tap, but more of the final remnants of BMWness in the G01 have been lost.
Overall, I'll keep mine, it is well made, practical, quick and good fun to drive when I'm in the mood. When I change I'd go Macan GTS rather than the G45 M50 as the pricing isn't worlds apart.
The frontal styling and interior design are both disasters, taking in the worst aspects of the failed iX and inexplicably flaunting them. Side-on is roughly a bloated MK2 X3 and pretty inoffensive. I quite like the sharp, van-like rear, though the 1 Series hatch is BMW's current best rear and happily, neither of these designs feature the idiotic pontoons afflicting the 2 Series, 5 Series and the two M estate models. Diamond cut wheels are still chintzy looking, something like the silver or bronzey ones you see on later M2s would be better.
That interior... I do like the cloth variations being used for the dash tops but everything else is a very clear cost play made worse with the Chongqing by Night screens. Far too much control is buried in the screens but that is a well-worn complaint and they're not listening. The way I feel it is that 3 decades of BMWs have featured intuitive interiors I have been able to use effectively and immediately, this was not the case with the X3 and I had to dig around iDrive to find basic things I tweak regularly. Most will already know about the silly decision to put motors in the side air vents and tacky touch controls to work them. The fake noise piped into the cabin is less bad but I'd rather not have it at all (even in the G01 it's not nearly as cheesy as what you get in the 4 cylinder stuff like JCWs and 135i's).
Onto the more important oily bits and how it drives, it is very, very good, though completely 'detached' feeling. I couldn't work out how all the driveline lash and the wooliness off idle had been eradicated so effectively. But then I realised the G01 emerged in 2018 and the 45v system came in 2021, meaning many years of progress in refinement of the fueling and the gearbox/throttle tuning. I owned the 2018 M40 and currently have the LCI. The difference in the 3 is marked. We're still on very costly and crap feeling 21in Bridgestone Alenzas. They have the same feel as the tyres you get on a Big Boy 150.
Handling is roughly similar to my G01, possibly a bit less of the fore/aft pitch and dive. The refinement will be very appealing to most people in combination with the generous torque on tap, but more of the final remnants of BMWness in the G01 have been lost.
Overall, I'll keep mine, it is well made, practical, quick and good fun to drive when I'm in the mood. When I change I'd go Macan GTS rather than the G45 M50 as the pricing isn't worlds apart.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Kumbi-M On Cars review the new X3 30e
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Road Test: BMW X3 M50
BMW X3 M50 Fast Facts
Price: R1 545 477
0-100 km/h: 4.61 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
Power: 293 kW
Torque: 580 N.m
CAR fuel index: 9.84 L/100 km
CO2: 187 g/km
There will no doubt be those saddened by the prospect of the accomplished G45 X3 not spawning a full-fat M model, and while that development may change in due course, the diminishing gap between then and M Performance models such as this M50 could bring into question just whether such model divisions need to exist. Yes, purists that enjoy being challenged (dare we say intimidated) by their cars won’t warm to the M50’s balanced persona, but they’re likely in the minority now. This car’s ability to calm and entertain in equal measure, while all but reeling in M models must be admired and only furthers the sense of accomplished diversity in the new X3 range.
www.carmag.co.za
BMW X3 M50 Fast Facts
Price: R1 545 477
0-100 km/h: 4.61 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
Power: 293 kW
Torque: 580 N.m
CAR fuel index: 9.84 L/100 km
CO2: 187 g/km
There will no doubt be those saddened by the prospect of the accomplished G45 X3 not spawning a full-fat M model, and while that development may change in due course, the diminishing gap between then and M Performance models such as this M50 could bring into question just whether such model divisions need to exist. Yes, purists that enjoy being challenged (dare we say intimidated) by their cars won’t warm to the M50’s balanced persona, but they’re likely in the minority now. This car’s ability to calm and entertain in equal measure, while all but reeling in M models must be admired and only furthers the sense of accomplished diversity in the new X3 range.
Road Test: BMW X3 M50
BMW aren't making a G45 X3 M but their M50 alternative makes us believe the margins separating the full-fat M Performance and M models have become increasingly razor-thin.
www.carmag.co.za
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Autogefühl first drive of the new iX3 prototype
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW reveals iX3 battery size and power output
BMW is preparing to launch its most important EV yet and it's kicking off the hype campaign. The upcoming BMW iX3 is promised to be a complete rethinking of what an electric car can be.
Built on the dedicated EV platform called the "Neue Klasse," or "New Class," it won't share the compromises of its predecessors, adapted from gasoline-powered cars. This is a ground-up electric vehicle, and it brings a suite of technologies that promise to redefine the driving experience.
At the core of the iX3 is what BMW affectionately calls the "Heart of Joy." In most modern cars, dozens of separate computers manage everything from the brakes to the radio. The Neue Klasse approach gets rid of them. Instead, one central brain controls nearly every function, eliminating the lag that occurs when different systems have to communicate with each other.
A group of journalists got a chance to review the iX3 prototypes and they agree the one-pedal driving mode is quite refined as well.
The iX3 will feature BMW's 6th generation battery technology, with a pack size expected to be around 100 kWh. It apparently will deliver an impressive range of approximately 644 km on the stringent American EPA cycle, with European WLTP estimates reaching as high as 800 km. Powering the SUV are dual motors producing a combined 400 horsepower, ensuring that performance matches its technological prowess.
The iX3 is built on an 800V architecture and is rated for a maximum charging speed of 400 kW. During a demonstration at the company's test facility in France, a pre-production model exceeded that, hitting a peak of 403 kW. In practical terms, this allows the iX3 to add over 350 km of range in just 10 minutes. This level of speed significantly closes the convenience gap between recharging an EV and refueling a conventional car.
www.arenaev.com
www.press.bmwgroup.com
BMW is preparing to launch its most important EV yet and it's kicking off the hype campaign. The upcoming BMW iX3 is promised to be a complete rethinking of what an electric car can be.
Built on the dedicated EV platform called the "Neue Klasse," or "New Class," it won't share the compromises of its predecessors, adapted from gasoline-powered cars. This is a ground-up electric vehicle, and it brings a suite of technologies that promise to redefine the driving experience.
At the core of the iX3 is what BMW affectionately calls the "Heart of Joy." In most modern cars, dozens of separate computers manage everything from the brakes to the radio. The Neue Klasse approach gets rid of them. Instead, one central brain controls nearly every function, eliminating the lag that occurs when different systems have to communicate with each other.
A group of journalists got a chance to review the iX3 prototypes and they agree the one-pedal driving mode is quite refined as well.
The iX3 will feature BMW's 6th generation battery technology, with a pack size expected to be around 100 kWh. It apparently will deliver an impressive range of approximately 644 km on the stringent American EPA cycle, with European WLTP estimates reaching as high as 800 km. Powering the SUV are dual motors producing a combined 400 horsepower, ensuring that performance matches its technological prowess.
The iX3 is built on an 800V architecture and is rated for a maximum charging speed of 400 kW. During a demonstration at the company's test facility in France, a pre-production model exceeded that, hitting a peak of 403 kW. In practical terms, this allows the iX3 to add over 350 km of range in just 10 minutes. This level of speed significantly closes the convenience gap between recharging an EV and refueling a conventional car.
BMW reveals iX3 battery size and power output
The upcoming BMW iX3 promises a big leap in terms of efficiency and performance.
www.arenaev.com
Pioneering technology meets pure driving pleasure: testing BMW iX3 prototypes.
+++ Up to 800km of electric range (WLTP) and 400kW maximum charging +++ the BMW Panoramic iDrive perfects driver orientation +++ Gen6 powertrain and Heart of Joy raise the typical BMW driving pleasure not just to the next level but to a higher level still +++ SoP of the BMW iX3 at the end of the...
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Pricing! Entry-level BMW X3 variant quietly launches in SA
BMW has quietly added a new rear-driven, entry-level petrol derivative to its X3 line-up in South Africa, effectively reducing the range’s starting price by nearly R90 000…
BMW Group South Africa has quietly expanded its locally built X3 line-up, adding a new rear-driven, entry-level petrol derivative to the mix. And the arrival of this X3 20 variant effectively reduces the range’s starting price by nearly R90 000.
Before the introduction of this new derivative, the G45-series X3 – which is produced at Plant Rosslyn in Gauteng – was available exclusively in all-wheel-drive form in SA. Powertrain options included the turbodiesel X3 20d xDrive (145 kW/400 Nm), the plug-in hybrid X3 30e xDrive (220 kW/450 Nm) and the inline-6-powered X3 M50 xDrive (293/580 Nm).
These remain in place but are now joined by a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (with mild-hybrid assistance), which powers the freshly minted X3 20. This mildly electrified motor sends 140 kW and 310 Nm to the rear axle via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Courtesy of an electric motor integrated into said transmission, a further 8 kW is briefly available. According to the Bavarian automaker, the rear-driven X3 20 sees off the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in 8.5 seconds. The listed combined fuel economy, meanwhile, comes in at 7.5 L/100 km.
So, what does the new derivative cost? Well, thanks to a timely heads-up from the ever-watchful vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we can confirm the BMW X3 20 – note the Bavarian firm’s latest naming convention drops the “i” suffix for petrol derivatives – is priced from R1 047 760. That sees this rear-wheel-drive newcomer slot in precisely R88 657 below the all-paw X3 20d xDrive (currently available from R1 136 417).
Selecting the M Sport package adds R50 000 to this derivative’s starting price, meaning the X3 20 M Sport kicks off at R1 097 760. Of course, a few other options are available, too, including larger wheels (up to 21-inch alloys for R30 000) and BMW Individual merino leather upholstery (R40 000).
What does the BMW X3 cost in South Africa?
BMW X3 20 – R1 047 760
BMW X3 20d xDrive – R1 136 417
BMW X3 30e xDrive – R1 260 000
BMW X3 M50 xDrive – R1 545 447
The prices above include BMW’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. The PHEV derivative further features an 8-year/100 000 km warranty specific to the hybrid battery pack.
BMW has quietly added a new rear-driven, entry-level petrol derivative to its X3 line-up in South Africa, effectively reducing the range’s starting price by nearly R90 000…
BMW Group South Africa has quietly expanded its locally built X3 line-up, adding a new rear-driven, entry-level petrol derivative to the mix. And the arrival of this X3 20 variant effectively reduces the range’s starting price by nearly R90 000.
Before the introduction of this new derivative, the G45-series X3 – which is produced at Plant Rosslyn in Gauteng – was available exclusively in all-wheel-drive form in SA. Powertrain options included the turbodiesel X3 20d xDrive (145 kW/400 Nm), the plug-in hybrid X3 30e xDrive (220 kW/450 Nm) and the inline-6-powered X3 M50 xDrive (293/580 Nm).
These remain in place but are now joined by a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (with mild-hybrid assistance), which powers the freshly minted X3 20. This mildly electrified motor sends 140 kW and 310 Nm to the rear axle via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Courtesy of an electric motor integrated into said transmission, a further 8 kW is briefly available. According to the Bavarian automaker, the rear-driven X3 20 sees off the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in 8.5 seconds. The listed combined fuel economy, meanwhile, comes in at 7.5 L/100 km.
So, what does the new derivative cost? Well, thanks to a timely heads-up from the ever-watchful vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we can confirm the BMW X3 20 – note the Bavarian firm’s latest naming convention drops the “i” suffix for petrol derivatives – is priced from R1 047 760. That sees this rear-wheel-drive newcomer slot in precisely R88 657 below the all-paw X3 20d xDrive (currently available from R1 136 417).
Selecting the M Sport package adds R50 000 to this derivative’s starting price, meaning the X3 20 M Sport kicks off at R1 097 760. Of course, a few other options are available, too, including larger wheels (up to 21-inch alloys for R30 000) and BMW Individual merino leather upholstery (R40 000).
What does the BMW X3 cost in South Africa?
BMW X3 20 – R1 047 760
BMW X3 20d xDrive – R1 136 417
BMW X3 30e xDrive – R1 260 000
BMW X3 M50 xDrive – R1 545 447
The prices above include BMW’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. The PHEV derivative further features an 8-year/100 000 km warranty specific to the hybrid battery pack.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW iX3's latest teaser focuses on 400+ kW charging
Electric cars are becoming common sights on roads worldwide, but a key factor for many potential owners remains how quickly these vehicles can recharge. China leads the way in developing fast-charging infrastructure, setting a high bar for other markets, but BMW is trying to close the gap with a new wave of EVs promising charging speeds that could change how we think about long-distance travel.
BMW's upcoming Neue Klasse platform moves beyond current EV designs, bringing advancements in motors, batteries, and charging capabilities. At the heart of this improvement is an 800V electrical system, a technology seen in a few premium EVs but now becoming more central to mainstream electric models.
The latest teaser video from BMW reveals a camouflaged prototype of the new iX3, the first model to launch on the Neue Klasse platform, demonstrating impressive charging performance. The video showed the iX3 briefly reaching a peak charging rate of 403 kW, a figure just above its promised 400 kW rates.
This speed translates into practical benefits for drivers: BMW states the iX3 can add up to 350 km of WLTP range in just 10 minutes. For context, this is more than double the range added in the same amount of time by BMW's current CLAR platform-based EVs. A 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in 20 minutes. The new iX3 also promises a much longer overall range. BMW indicates that the iX3 will offer up to 800 km of WLTP range. This is about 100 km more than the larger BMW iX, despite the iX having a bigger battery.
www.arenaev.com
Electric cars are becoming common sights on roads worldwide, but a key factor for many potential owners remains how quickly these vehicles can recharge. China leads the way in developing fast-charging infrastructure, setting a high bar for other markets, but BMW is trying to close the gap with a new wave of EVs promising charging speeds that could change how we think about long-distance travel.
BMW's upcoming Neue Klasse platform moves beyond current EV designs, bringing advancements in motors, batteries, and charging capabilities. At the heart of this improvement is an 800V electrical system, a technology seen in a few premium EVs but now becoming more central to mainstream electric models.
The latest teaser video from BMW reveals a camouflaged prototype of the new iX3, the first model to launch on the Neue Klasse platform, demonstrating impressive charging performance. The video showed the iX3 briefly reaching a peak charging rate of 403 kW, a figure just above its promised 400 kW rates.
This speed translates into practical benefits for drivers: BMW states the iX3 can add up to 350 km of WLTP range in just 10 minutes. For context, this is more than double the range added in the same amount of time by BMW's current CLAR platform-based EVs. A 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in 20 minutes. The new iX3 also promises a much longer overall range. BMW indicates that the iX3 will offer up to 800 km of WLTP range. This is about 100 km more than the larger BMW iX, despite the iX having a bigger battery.
BMW iX3's latest teaser focuses on 400+ kW charging
The BMW iX3, with its 800V architecture, briefly charges at 403 kW, offering quicker top-ups and an extended driving range.
www.arenaev.com
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Scott BMW Smith review of the new X3 xDrive 30
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Driving impressions: Why the BMW X3 20d xDrive M Sport stands out in the SUV market
Summary
Yes, there are other more powerful options in the X3 range including the plug-in hybrid X3 30e xDrive built exclusively in Rosslyn, Pretoria, but for R1,186,417 shop around and you’ll find the BMW X3 20d xDrive M Sport is all the SUV you’ll ever need.
It also means you’re supporting local, and that counts for a hell of a lot.
Summary
Yes, there are other more powerful options in the X3 range including the plug-in hybrid X3 30e xDrive built exclusively in Rosslyn, Pretoria, but for R1,186,417 shop around and you’ll find the BMW X3 20d xDrive M Sport is all the SUV you’ll ever need.
It also means you’re supporting local, and that counts for a hell of a lot.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MotorMatters review of the new X3 30e