BMW expands the iX3 series with new iX3 40 entry-level configuration

BMW announced the iX3 back in September last year, but only the pricier iX3 50 xDrive configuration was made available, with all-wheel drive, a large 108.7 kWh battery and 469 hp maximum output. Nonetheless, customers are apparently loving it because BMW is struggling to keep up with demand. No wonder - our real life range test of the BMW iX3 50 proved to be a chart-topper.

After announcing the longer Chinese iX3 yesterday, BMW is expanding the global iX3 lineup and introducing the entry-level iX3 40 with a rear-wheel drive, a smaller battery and a less powerful motor. The motor is capable of 320 hp (235 kW) maximum output and is paired with an 82.6 kWh battery. According to the WLTP data, the vehicle can drive for 395 miles before needing a recharge.

For context, the iX3 50 xDrive has a 469 hp dual-motor setup, a 108.7 kWh battery, all-wheel drive and up to 500 miles range.

The iX3 40 offers more than decent fast charging capabilities. BMW says the vehicle can recharge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes using a 300 kW fast DC charging station. A 10-minute charge will give you about 186 miles.

The interior and exterior standard equipment for the pricier iX3 50 can be found on the iX3 40 trim as well. That also includes all the niceties with BMW's iDrive operating system.

The BMW iX3 40 will be available this summer, starting in Germany with a price tag of $74,300.

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