2020 BMW iX3 Spotted With Production Bodywork, Should Have A Range Of 250+ Miles

Audi and Mercedes are preparing to introduce electric crossovers next month and they’ll eventually be joined by the BMW iX3.

Previewed by a concept at Auto China, the iX3 will be launched in 2020 and become the brand’s first electric crossover. While previous prototypes were virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the latest version features production bodywork that is hidden beneath blue camouflage designating its eco-friendly status.

Unsurprisingly, the changes are minor and the model is still instantly recognizable as an X3. However, the crossover has been equipped with a new front fascia which features a revised grille. It’s too early to tell what it will look like, but hopefully the company decided against using the bow-tie design that was featured on the concept.

Further below, we can see a wider lower intake which appears to remain pretty faithful to the concept. We can also see a glimpse of the side air intakes, but it’s unclear if they will be vertical units.

The rest of the design largely carries over, but the iX3 has been equipped with a modified rear bumper. This is the result of the crossover not needing an exhaust system due to its electric powertrain.

Spy photographers couldn’t get close enough to snap the interior, but changes to the cabin will likely be minimal. Nothing is official,but we can expect a revised instrument cluster and EV-specific infotainment displays.

Like the concept, the production model is expected to have a 70+ kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor that develops more than 266 hp (199 kW / 270 PS). This should enable the crossover to travel more than 249 miles (400 km) on a single charge. When the battery is depleted, it can be topped off in 30 minutes using a 150 kW charger.