BMW X3 30e xDrive: greater power, more electric range
Since the debut of the first BMW X3, this model series has enjoyed a steady increase in popularity worldwide. Over two decades, the BMW X3 has reigned supreme as the best-selling premium model in its class.
Despite being joined in the line-up by a sibling model, which is the BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupé for the first time, the second-generation X3 still outstripped the sales of its successful predecessor by over 50 per cent.
The following generation was the first to add an M Performance model to the range. As well as acquiring the status of global market leader in its segment, the third-generation BMW X3 also became the best-selling model in the entire BMW product portfolio in 2023. In total, over 3.5 million examples of the BMW X3 have now been delivered to customers worldwide.
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid drive systems makes for much sharper power delivery in the new BMW X3 30e xDrive, while also achieving a noticeable increase in electric range compared to the outgoing model. Its plug-in hybrid system consists of a latest-generation four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor that likewise comes in an extensively updated version and is integrated into the model-specific eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The 2.0-litre petrol unit in the new BMW X3 30e xDrive generates maximum output of 190 hp and peak torque of 310Nm. The electric motor developed for the hybrid drive system is integrated – together with its power electronics – into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, saving weight and space. It contributes up to 184hp to the maximum system output. A pre-gearing stage patented by BMW enables its nominal torque of up to 250Nm to be increased to an effective torque of up to 400Nm at the transmission input for the motor. The compact electric motor is therefore able to boost torque by an amount that would normally only be possible using a larger unit and makes a clear difference both when accelerating off the line and putting in a quick burst of speed.
The two power units combine to increase system output to 299 hp in the new BMW X3 30e xDrive, while maximum combined torque has been upped by 30Nm over its predecessor to 450Nm. This enables the new BMW X3 30e xDrive to accelerate to 100km/h from rest in 6.2 seconds. Top speed is 215km/h with the car reaching a maximum of 140km/h in pure electric mode.
Engine and electric motor work together as a harmoniously coordinated whole to outstanding effect for this segment. The proactive energy management has undergone further improvement. Consequently, the most efficient operating mode is always selected as a function of the route profile and the battery’s charge level.
When HYBRID mode is activated, the combustion engine is started in plenty of time before joining a motorway to allow the driver to accelerate at full power and, at the same time, optimise the battery charge. And in ELECTRIC mode, the engine is completely disconnected from the drivetrain using a separating clutch in the eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The high-voltage battery in the new BMW X3 30e xDrive is also a product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology and now has a considerably higher energy content. Located under the rear seat, the battery pack provides 19.7 kWh of usable energy, nearly twice as much as before.
This has also led to a commensurately large increase in the new model’s electric range, which now comes in at 81 – 90 kilometres (50 – 56 miles), allowing drivers to complete not just urban journeys and the daily commute with zero local emissions, but longer trips too.
