Although it was only been unveiled a few months ago, BMW is already working on the first update for the iX3, which will receive a facelift in early 2022 to keep up with the rest of the X3 range. The first test mules have already been spotted in the Arctic Circle, and despite their dense camouflage, we have been able to observe changes in them, such as redesigned optics and new bumpers (via motor1).
The iX3 2022 will also offer buyers an optional M Sport aesthetic pack that will give it a sportier image. The restyling is expected to bring with it a slightly higher electric range, as well as a more performance powertrain (BMW quotes 0-62 mph in 6.8 seconds, which is 0.8 seconds slower than the X3 sDrive30i, the base rear-wheel-drive gasoline X3 model for the U.S. market. The iX3’s top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph). It is not clear if it will also see its charging power (150 kW in direct current) increase.
The BMW iX3 has been a controversial model since its launch. The electric version of the popular X3 family SUV is manufactured exclusively in China for the whole world. However, BMW decided not to market it in the United States because its range under the American EPA homologation cycle would be too low.
An interesting fact is that in the entire year of 2021, only about 12,000 units will be imported from China, which has led some to see it as a model designed to reduce BMW’s average emissions.