Luxury EVs are getting absurdly expensive. It’s becoming increasingly common to see compact electric crossovers push past the $80,000 mark once options are added, all while offering compromises in range, practicality, or driving feel. Badge appeal still carries a lot of weight in this segment, but buyers are beginning to ask a pretty reasonable question: how much are you actually getting for the money?
That’s exactly why BMW’s latest electric SUV feels so disruptive. It undercuts one of the most desirable German EVs on the market by a massive margin while still delivering over 400 miles of range, serious straight-line pace, and a genuinely high-end cabin. More importantly, it doesn’t feel like a cheaper alternative. In a lot of meaningful ways, it actually feels like the more complete everyday luxury EV.
BMW has also managed to inject something that many electric crossovers still struggle with: personality. Between its bold styling, surprisingly playful chassis, and tech-heavy interior, this new EV feels far more ambitious than just another sensible electric SUV. It’s a statement that luxury buyers may not need to pay Porsche money anymore to get a truly premium electric experience.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites, including the EPA.
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BMW’s new iX3 gives the Porsche Macan Electric a run for its money
And it’ll save you thousands of dollars
There is no denying just how alluring the Porsche badge is, even when talking about electric cars. The German automaker has established themselves as one of the most desirable brands on the market, and their Macan Electric aims to solidify this reputation in the EV world as well. However, BMW refuses to take things lying down, and their new iX3 not only undercuts the Macan, but it goes further on a single charge.
2027 BMW iX3 pricing
|
Models |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
50 xDrive |
$61,500 |
While the iX3 nameplate was worn by some cars in other parts of the world, it is completely new to the U.S. This new model wears BMW’s Neue Klasse design language. Not only does the iX3 showcase BMW’s prowess in making electric vehicles, but it has set the standard for what we should expect from the brand across their entire lineup going forward. In this way, it is one of the most important BMWs of the modern age.
On launch, BMW will only be selling the 50 xDrive model, but we expect the brand to introduce some more affordable trim levels down the road. While this model comes pretty well-equipped, we would tack on the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which adds hands-free driving software, and the Technology Package, which gets you a heads-up display, added lighting elements, and a premium sound system. Even after all these optional extras, the iX3 still undercuts the $82,650 starting price of the Porsche Macan Electric.
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BMW’s electric crossover offers better range and is almost as quick
The iX3 nips at the heels of the much more expensive Porshce
In top trim, the Macan Electric is capable of rocketing to 60 miles per hour in under three seconds, which is ridiculous for a crossover. However, the iX3 is quicker than the most affordable versions of the Macan. On top of this, every iX3 comes with a battery pack that offers over 100 miles more range than even the most efficient Macan.
BMW iX3 performance specs
- Base Trim Engine
-
Electric
- Base Trim Transmission
-
single-speed Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
All-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
469 hp
- Base Trim Torque
-
475 lb-ft
- Make
-
BMW
- Model
-
iX3
As mentioned, the only version of the iX3 currently on sale is the 50 xDrive. This model comes with all-wheel drive and two electric motors. These motors pack quite a punch, delivering a combined output of 463 horsepower. This means the crossover is capable of launching to 60 miles per hour in as little as 4.2 seconds. This is quicker than the Macan Base and 4, but slower than the 4S, GTS, and Turbo, which all come close to or exceed a six-figure price tag.
BMW has done some fantastic engineering to make the iX3 a genuinely enjoyable car to drive. The electric powertrain has a slight rear bias. When in its sportiest drive mode, you can even swing the rear out a little bit. Braking and handling are fantastic, especially for a 5,300 pound car, but you definitely still feel that weight through corners. What we’re most impressed with, though, is how the German automaker has been able to imbue the iX3 with so much character, something we think is quite difficult when putting together an electric car.
Efficiency, battery, and range
Range is still perhaps one of the most important metrics in electric vehicles, and it will be for a long time. This is why the standard 112-kWh battery pack in the iX3 is such good news. The EPA estimates that you’ll be able to go a whopping 434 miles on a single charge in the electric BMW.
The German brand also claims that it can regain 230 miles of range in just ten minutes of charging. That is dependent on you finding a DC fast charger capable of charging speeds that high.
The Macan EV is classic while the BMW iX3 takes a more daring approach
BMW is willing to push the boundaries of design
BMW has always been willing to make people uncomfortable with their styling changes. They have consistently tried things, with some success and plenty of controversy. We fear that Neue Klasse will be subject to the familiar distaste of classic BMW fans, but we appreciate that the German automaker has strayed from their minimalist roots and that they are looking to deliver something fresh and new.
Key interior comfort features
- Faux leather upholstery (standard); leather upholstery (optional)
- Power-adjustable massaging front seats
- Reclining rear seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Customizable ambient interior lighting
Like a lot of modern EVs, the iX3 is incredibly airy on the inside. There is a lot of space for passengers up front, and you should pretty comfortably fit two adults in the back seats as well. The cargo area in the back is also pretty generous, with plenty of room for a couple of suitcases. You also get a small frunk, but space up front is a lot more limited.
In terms of design, BMW has definitely made some leaps here. They have definitely gone with a more futuristic approach, with sharp geometry being a defining feature of the cabin. Even the infotainment screen sits at a slant. The only thing we take issue with really is the strangely shaped steering wheel, but a more traditional option is available when speccing your own model.
- Type
-
Tire Inflator
- Dimensions
-
4.16″L x 4.16″W x 9.3″H
- Weight
-
3.07 Pounds
A tire inflator is important even if all you need to do is fill your tires up a bit, and this heavy-duty inflator from WOLFBOX will take care of all of your needs.
Infotainment and technology
The focal point of this interestingly designed cabin is the massive 17.9-inch infotainment screen mounted to the center of the dashboard. It sits at a slant, which we think is a bit of an odd choice. A narrow 43-inch display sits higher up and further back on the dashboard, spanning the width of the car, acts as a gauge cluster as well as a display for a ton of other information.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are, of course, standard here. You also get built-in navigation as well as a pretty advanced AI assistant. Optional features include a heads-up display and a high-quality Harman/Kardon sound system.
There are also four high-performance on-board computers inside the iX3 that work in congruence to control systems throughout the car, making this one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road.
The Macan EV is cool, but the iX3 offers much better value
The Macan Electric is one of the most desirable electric vehicles on the market. It is sleek, comfortable, quick, and packed with bleeding-edge technology. BMW’s new iX3 matches or exceeds the Macan in just about every important metric, and it does so for thousands of dollars less. Whether you like the new design or not, BMW deserves praise for building such a competent EV at a price so competitive.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
