When BMW unveiled the brand new iX3 50 xDrive a number of months in the past, it promised an entry-level variant would comply with. Since then, we’ve discovered {that a} cheaper mannequin is headed to america in early 2027. Unsurprisingly, Europe will get the bottom model first.
Alexandra Landers, World Head Product Communications at BMW, revealed the timing in an interview with Drive journal from Australia: “The rear-wheel-drive model might be finish of subsequent yr for Europe.” She didn’t supply particulars concerning the title, however it’ll possible be known as the iX3 40. What is definite is that it’ll use a single rear-mounted motor, as Neue Klasse EVs won’t adopt front-wheel-drive layouts.
Though BMW has but to verify it, this lower-tier iX3 40 is predicted to enter manufacturing on the Debrecen plant in July 2026. 4 months later, it must be joined by the dual-motor xDrive variant. Each “40” fashions are possible to make use of a battery smaller than the 108.7-kWh pack within the 50 xDrive. Consequently, don’t anticipate them to match the claimed 500 miles (805 kilometers) of WLTP vary of the preliminary mannequin.
In associated information, the iX3 lineup will increase subsequent yr with an M Efficiency model. The M60 is supposedly set to enter manufacturing in July, coinciding with the rear-wheel-drive 40. It’ll definitely characteristic a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup with significantly extra energy than the 463 hp accessible within the iX3 50 xDrive. Rumor has it output may attain 620-630 hp, although nothing is confirmed.
Additionally arriving subsequent yr is a long-wheelbase version for China, the place an much more primary rear-wheel-drive “30” could possibly be provided. Nevertheless, it’s too early to know whether or not an iX3 30 might be bought elsewhere. Close to the tip of 2027, BMW plans to spherical out the vary with a full-fat M mannequin, stated to ship no less than 800 hp.
Along with manufacturing in Hungary and China, BMW may even construct the iX3 in Mexico. Nevertheless, collection manufacturing on the San Luis Potosi plant gained’t start till 2027, and even then, U.S.-bound fashions will proceed to come back from Debrecen.
Supply: Drive.com.au
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