BMW has significantly enhanced its upcoming electric vehicle lineup with a competitively priced model that is set to make waves in the Australian market. The new BMW iX3 40 variant will be available in Australia starting in the first quarter of the year, with an estimated price of $89,900 (before on-road costs). This pricing strategy positions the iX3 40 almost at par with the petrol-powered X3 SUV, while also making it more affordable than the previous-generation iX3 it replaces.
One of the key advantages of the iX3 40 is its ability to slip under the Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold, which makes it eligible for the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption when leased through a salary sacrifice arrangement. This benefit has been instrumental in driving electric vehicle adoption over the past year, although the federal government has had to reconsider the scheme due to its higher-than-expected costs.
The FBT exemption has proven so popular that the government has decided to phase it out, and from April 1, 2027, the iX3 40 will no longer qualify for this benefit. Therefore, potential buyers are encouraged to act quickly if they want to take advantage of this tax break.
Under the hood, the iX3 40 features a single rear-mounted electric motor that delivers 235kW of power and 500Nm of torque. This setup allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 10km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 200km/h. The car is equipped with an approximately 82kWh battery, which provides a driving range of up to 635km based on the WLTP cycle.
In contrast, the iX3 50 variant comes with a larger 108kWh battery, offering a driving range of over 800km. It also features a dual motor system that boosts performance to 345kW and 645Nm, making it a more powerful option for those seeking greater acceleration and range.
One of the standout features of the iX3 is its fast-charging capability. BMW claims the vehicle can absorb up to 300kW of power when connected to a suitable DC fast charger. In ideal conditions, this can add up to 300km of range in just 10 minutes, and the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in 21 minutes.
For slower charging options, the iX3 supports 11kW via an AC charger, with an optional upgrade to 22kW. This flexibility ensures that owners have multiple ways to recharge their vehicles depending on their needs and available infrastructure.
The iX3 40 comes with a comprehensive list of standard equipment, including 20-inch alloy wheels, an M Sport package, a panoramic sunroof, an automatic tailgate, a Harman/Kardon stereo, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, and a wireless device charger. These features enhance both the comfort and convenience of the vehicle, making it a strong contender in the luxury electric vehicle segment.
With its competitive pricing, impressive performance, and advanced technology, the BMW iX3 40 is set to challenge established players in the Australian EV market, including the Porsche Macan, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Polestar 4. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, the iX3 40 represents a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers looking for a premium yet practical electric SUV.
