B.MW is facing a strong global electrification strategy, in fact it hopes to market only 100% electric vehicles by 2030 in Europe, although the brand is also aware that this transition will be slower in other markets. Precisely, to start the journey, the Munich firm presented its first electrified vehicle in Argentina, the X3 xDrive30e, the plug-in hybrid variant of its SUV.
This version, also produced at the American plant in Spartanburg, brings with it the facelift that the X3 received last year, with aesthetic modifications and more technology, completing the list of launches planned for this year in our country. For its part, the xDrive M40i version was temporarily discontinued and replaced by the xDrive30i as the most affordable option in the range.
It is a new version of the X3 that at the same time incorporates the latest update that the SUV received in the middle of last year. This plug-in hybrid variant represents the beginning of BMW’s electrification strategy in our market.
At the design level, the changes in this update are relatively subtle and are concentrated in the front sector: the X3 sports a new grille -larger but without reaching the exaggerated proportions of the 4 Series or the X7-, new headlights with smaller shapes sharpened and also a new bumper, with more angular lines, especially towards the air intakes at the ends. In the case of this plug-in hybrid version, there are no details that differentiate it aesthetically, except for the charging port located behind the left front wheel arch.
Inside doors, the design of the upholstery and coverings was modified, as well as the appliqués. But beyond aesthetic issues, it adds more technology such as the 100% digital instruments configurable as standard, the new multimedia system screen that can be up to 12.3” depending on the version.
The conventional variant becomes the entry-level xDrive30i, with a 252 hp TwinPower Turbo engine, automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive.
Versions: In the case of the plug-in hybrid variant, it will be offered in a single option (xDrive30e). The xDrive30i petrol version completes the range.
Comfort equipment (highlight):
Keyless entry system, panoramic sunroof, three-zone automatic climate control with digital display, electrically adjustable sports seats, Sensatec dashboard (fully digital), BMW key with display, multimedia system with Professional navigation, CD player, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth and gesture control, Harman Kardon surround sound system, Parking Assistant Plus (reversing camera with 360º vision and automatic parking), “Vernasca” leather upholstery, adaptive Led headlights, parking assistant high beam with automatic high beam on/off, electric anti-dazzle mirrors, head-up display and BMW Individual headliner anthracite
Safety equipment: Front, side and curtain airbags, 4-wheel disc brake with ABS/EBD/BA, traction and stability control (with extended function for off-road use), hill start assist and tire pressure sensor.
Mechanics: The xDrive30e has a 2.0 turbo gasoline engine that develops 184 hp and is associated with an electric drive that delivers another 113 hp. Together, according to BMW, the two engines produce 252 hp – the same power as the equivalent conventional gasoline version – and are coupled to an 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. In addition, it has the XtraBoost function, which provides an extra 41 hp for 10 seconds by activating the Sport driving mode, so it reaches up to 292 hp under acceleration. Thus, the xDrive30e achieves 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds.
The electric motor is powered by a 12 kWh capacity lithium-ion battery pack, which allows it to travel up to 50 kilometers in 100% electric mode. In addition, the Munich firm’s engineers also thought of a solution so that the batteries do not take up too much cargo space in the trunk: they are located under the rear seat, while the fuel tank was relocated above the rear axle.
For its part, the conventional version (xDrive30i) is powered by the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, which delivers 252 hp and 350 Nm of torque, coupled to the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and the xDrive all-wheel drive.
Prices and guarantee:
- BMW X3 xDrive30e: $150,900
- BMW X3 xDrive30i: $125,900
- Warranty of 3 years or 200,000 kilometers.