BMW Incredibly Popular Electric Crossover, the iX3, Is Getting M Power, with Sporty iX3 M Prototype Spied Testing in Europe
BMW‘s recently unveiled Neue Klasse-based iX3 electric crossover is proving so popular that the automaker is struggling to meet demand. Now, spy photographers have captured the next evolution: the high-performance iX3 M, undergoing testing near the Nürburgring. Despite heavy camouflage, the prototype sports production headlights and taillights, large brakes with drilled discs, and a distinctly sporty aesthetic. Unique body cladding, hinting at hidden venting, G90 M5-inspired mirror housings and rear fascia, tinted taillights, and a chunkier roof spoiler all contribute to its aggressive design. While performance specs and an official reveal date remain unknown, the iX3 M is expected to exceed 500 horsepower and launch next year, significantly upping the performance ante over the standard iX3’s 463 hp.
iX3 M Prototype: Spied with Sporty Cues
The sighting of the iX3 M prototype suggests BMW is serious about bringing M-level performance to its electric crossover lineup.
- Testing Location: Spied near the Nürburgring in Europe, indicating rigorous performance development.
- Production Lights: The prototype already wears production headlights and taillights, giving a clearer indication of its final appearance.
- Braking Power: Behind placeholder wheels, “big brakes with drilled discs” are visible, confirming its high-performance aspirations.
- Camouflage: Still heavily covered in camouflage, hinting that a full reveal is not imminent but likely next year.
Unique Styling and Design Hints
Despite the disguise, several design elements differentiate the iX3 M from the standard model.
- Curious Cladding: Features “strange cladding on the hood that appears to hide venting,” likely to be fake outlets similar to those on the BMW M4.
- M-Inspired Details:
- Mirror housings appear similar to those of the G90 M5 sedan.
- The rear fascia’s diffuser panel seems influenced by the M5, with a recess in the middle possibly for a tow hitch, highlighting its “duality between practicality and performance.”
- Side skirts appear “more textured.”
- Aggressive Lighting: The taillights are “slightly tinted to add a more aggressive look and feel to the rear end.”
- Roof Spoiler: The roof spoiler appears “slightly chunkier” than that of the regular iX3.
- EV Confirmation: The closed-off upper front fascia and lack of exhaust tips confirm its all-electric nature.
Performance and Reveal: Still Under Wraps
Key performance metrics and the official launch date for the iX3 M are yet to be disclosed.
- Performance Metrics Unknown: BMW has not yet revealed details about the launch date or performance metrics of this hotter M variant.
- Standard iX3 Baseline: The standard iX3’s dual-motor powertrain produces 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.
- Expected iX3 M Performance: It’s “presumably” expected that the iX3 M will exceed 500 hp and achieve 0-60 mph in the “mid-to-high three-second range.”
- Reveal Timeline: A reveal is not expected until next year, likely towards the end of the first quarter.
- Cosmetic Upgrades: BMW has already begun offering the new iX3 with M Performance cosmetic upgrades, but the full M variant is a more substantial upgrade.
Final Thoughts
The sighting of the BMW iX3 M prototype confirms that BMW is ready to inject its popular electric crossover with serious M Division performance. By taking the iX3 M to the Nürburgring, BMW signals its intent to deliver not just speed but also refined handling characteristics. While many details remain under wraps, the visible design cues and anticipated power figures suggest a compelling package that will appeal to enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating electric driving experience coupled with crossover practicality. This move underscores BMW’s commitment to M performance in the electric era, ensuring that even its electric crossovers deliver the “Ultimate Driving Machine” promise.
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