BMW has teased prototypes of the next-generation iX3 undergoing hot weather testing in South Africa ahead of the electric SUV’s reveal later this year. Previewed by last year’s Vision Neue Klasse X concept, the all-new iX3 will usher in the brand’s Gen6 eDrive and iDrive X technologies.
The upcoming iX3, which is internally codenamed NA5, will reportedly be longer and wider than its predecessor. Despite the heavy camouflage, the prototype pictured appears to feature many of the design cues seen on the concept. These include angular wheel arches and a familiar light signature at the front, while the flush door handles are additions for the production version.
BMW has already confirmed that Neue Klasse models will be equipped with an 800V electrical architecture as well as batteries that charge 30% faster and provide 30% more range. The battery pack will also serve as a structural component (pack-to-open-body) and the new cylindrical cells with 20% greater energy density will be integrated directly (cell-to-pack) in the housing of the high-voltage battery.
The Gen6 power unit will feature an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for the rear axle, while xDrive models add an asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front axle that is said to be more compact and cost efficient.
BMW iX3
from RM378,800 
BMW M3 Touring
from RM898,800 
BMW iX1 L
from RM252,800 
BMW iX
from RM425,800 
BMW X3
from RM325,800 
BMW M5
from RM1,200,800 
BMW M4 Coupe
from RM878,800 
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
from RM173,800 
BMW 3 Series
from RM267,800 
Meanwhile there is still no sight of new X3 in Malaysia, how lame our market is.