Overview

The BMW iX3 M Sport Pro is BMW’s most conventional take on an electric SUV, blending the familiar shape of the combustion-powered X3 with an electric powertrain. Unlike the bold iX, the iX3 doesn’t shout about being electric – and for many buyers, that’s precisely the point.

For 2023, the range-topping M Sport Pro trim starts at £63,970. This price applies to the UK market and includes the M Sport Pro trim level, which offers a higher level of equipment and features compared to the standard M Sport model. Underneath, all iX3s share the same 74kWh battery and single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup producing 286hp.

Powertrain and Performance

The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup gives the iX3 a 0–62mph time of 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. On paper, those numbers make it lively enough for daily driving and effortless overtaking, though they fall short of the rapid acceleration offered by many rivals. Power delivery is smooth and predictable, with the torque you would expect from an EV.

While BMW has marketed the M Sport Pro with a sporty image (complete with artificial “sport sound”), the reality was more subdued. Switching into Sport mode sharpens the steering but leaves the suspension unchanged, meaning it still feels a little “boaty” in corners. Drivers expecting dynamic transformation at the push of a button might be disappointed.

That said, efficiency is a strong point. On a real-world test drive from Weymouth to Kent, the iX3 averaged around 3.6 miles per kWh, which is commendable for an SUV of this size. It even held up at motorway speeds until sport mode and 90mph began to take their toll.

Range and Charging

Officially, the iX3 offered a WLTP range of around 240 miles, though real-world figures often proved more generous. In testing, it started out showing 180 miles on a near-full battery but went on to cover 169 miles with around 50 still in reserve. It seems the system under-reports range rather than over-promises, which is reassuring. DC charging is capped at 150kW, giving 10–80% in roughly 34 minutes, which is competitive, if not class-leading.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the iX3 feels every bit a BMW: solid, premium, and comfortable. Long stints behind the wheel are easy thanks to supportive seats and a panoramic roof that tilts and slides. Rear passengers also benefit from plenty of space, making the iX3 a genuinely relaxed place to cover miles.

The displays are generally excellent, with the head-up display being a highlight, showing clear navigation prompts and junction layouts. The downside? Sunglasses make it vanish completely, which is frustrating on a sunny drive. The central digital cluster is also a mixed bag: you can have a map front-and-centre until driver aids kick in, at which point it defaults to showing a graphic of surrounding cars, with no obvious way to get the map back.

BMW’s iDrive system remains one of the most intuitive on the market, with clear menus and a rotary controller that’s easier to use on the move than a purely touch-based system. That said, the in-built navigation can stutter occasionally as though the processor can’t quite keep up, which takes the polish off an otherwise slick interface. Wireless phone charging is included, though not perfect as I found my phone case prevented the device from sitting flush on the pad.

Practicality

Being based on the X3, the iX3 has a sensible SUV layout, but the batteries do eat into boot space. In fact, the load area feels smaller than a Tesla Model 3’s. Unlike many dedicated EVs, there’s also no front boot (frunk), which limits flexibility for stowing charging cables or extra luggage. Families coming from a petrol or diesel X3 may well notice the drop in outright practicality.

Passenger comfort is strong, with four-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, and a spacious cabin making long journeys easy. Storage for small items is also well thought-out with decent door bins, a covered centre console and cupholders, but in terms of outright boot capacity and versatility, the iX3 lags behind newer, purpose-built EV SUVs.

Driver Assistance and Safety

The iX3 earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating, thanks in part to its comprehensive suite of driver aids. Adaptive cruise and motorway assist work well, keeping the car centred and handling lane changes with confidence. That said, the system can be a little heavy-handed. Automatic lights, wipers, and dual-zone (plus rear climate) are all included, and BMW’s semi-autonomous motorway driving is on par with Tesla’s Autopilot in many respects.

Verdict

The BMW iX3 M Sport Pro is a polished and efficient electric SUV that feels reassuringly familiar for existing BMW drivers. It offers strong real-world efficiency, premium comfort and an excellent suite of safety and driver assistance systems. However, its compromises are clear: rear-wheel drive only, a smaller boot than rivals, no frunk, and a sport mode that promises more than it delivers. Against newer EVs, like the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6 or Hyundai Ioniq 5, the iX3 feels like they are playing it safe rather than pushing boundaries. For those who want a refined, comfortable BMW SUV with an electric twist, it’s a solid choice, but not the most exciting or practical option in 2023.

Key Specs

BMW iX3 M Sport Pro

Price (RRP OTR): From £63,970
Top speed: 112mph 0-62mph: 6.8 seconds
Power: 286hp (210kW)
Torque: 295lb-ft (400Nm)
Driving range (WLTP): Up to 285 miles
Charging time: 34 minutes (150kW DC, 10–80%)
Insurance group: 45E
Vehicle warranty: 3 years / unlimited mileage
Battery warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles