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A Personal Connection
Stepping behind the wheel of the new EX‑3 feels almost nostalgic. The original model once shifted my perception of BMW, making me question my long‑standing bias against the brand. That early experience was quiet, efficient, and unmistakably BMW, and it set a high bar for what an electric SUV should deliver. When BMW announced a completely new EX‑3 built on its next‑generation electric platform, the excitement was immediate. The promise was not just an update but a leap forward in performance, range, and everyday usability.
Powertrain and Performance
The EX‑3 is offered in three trims that share a dual‑motor all‑wheel‑drive powertrain. The mid‑range model produces 469 horsepower and 645 newton‑metres of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds. The higher‑spec M Sport and M Sport Pro variants add only styling and equipment differences, keeping the core performance identical. This power output is more than adequate for daily driving, yet it never feels like a performance SUV. Acceleration is smooth, overtaking is effortless, and the car maintains a balanced, composed feel even when pushing hard.
Charging and Battery
BMW has upgraded the EX‑3’s battery architecture to an 800‑volt system, enabling charging speeds up to 400 kilowatts. Under ideal conditions, a 10‑to‑80 percent charge takes roughly 21 minutes, adding about 300 miles of range in that time. The usable battery capacity exceeds 100 kilowatt‑hours, which supports the advertised WLTP range of around 500 miles. While real‑world figures will vary with driving style and climate, the focus on long‑distance usability is clear. The charging infrastructure is designed to keep the vehicle ready for both city commutes and extended road trips.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the EX‑3 embraces a tech‑heavy yet refined cabin. A wide, slightly curved display spans the dashboard, projecting speed, navigation, and driver information directly onto the windscreen. This “panoramic iDrive” eliminates a traditional instrument cluster, creating a futuristic feel. A central touchscreen still controls most functions, and higher trims receive a 3‑D head‑up display that projects data onto the road ahead. The interior is further enhanced by illuminated front grills, pop‑out door handles, and a range of storage solutions, including wireless charging pads and USB‑C ports. The cabin’s material palette—especially the terracotta and silver combinations—adds a touch of luxury without compromising practicality.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The EX‑3’s driving dynamics are a blend of BMW’s classic “heart of joy” and modern electric efficiency. The steering is well‑weighted, offering clear feedback without feeling overly sporty. The all‑wheel‑drive system provides ample grip, and the vehicle’s chassis remains composed and predictable, even on uneven roads. Regenerative braking blends smoothly with the physical brakes, creating a natural deceleration feel. The car’s interior space has been re‑packaged to offer more headroom and legroom than the previous generation, thanks to a flatter floor and lower seating position. Boot space is competitive, with 520 litres of cargo capacity, comparable to rivals like the Audi Q6 and Porsche Macan electric.
Additional conveniences include a self‑parking system that autonomously steers, accelerates, and brakes into tight spaces, and a suite of sensors that enhance safety. While the technology is abundant, it remains user‑friendly; drivers can quickly adapt to the new layout and find the controls intuitive. The overall balance between comfort, performance, and technology makes the EX‑3 suitable for families, commuters, and those who appreciate a premium driving experience.
Closing Thoughts
The new BMW EX‑3 stands out in the crowded electric SUV market by combining a heritage‑inspired design, a powerful yet balanced powertrain, rapid charging, and a sophisticated interior. It delivers on the promise of long‑distance usability while maintaining the everyday practicality that made the original model a favourite. For buyers looking for a premium electric SUV that feels like a natural evolution of the BMW brand, the EX‑3 offers a compelling package that balances performance, range, and luxury without compromising on everyday usability.