BMW iX3 M50: Electric SUV Outperforms Gas X3 M50 on Range and Price

BMW iX3 M50: A Game-Changer for the US EV Market

The BMW iX3 M50 marks the brand’s first Neue Klasse SUV for North America, priced at $61,500 plus a $1,350 destination fee. With 483 hp and a 50 xDrive drivetrain, it delivers up to 434 miles of EPA-estimated range—outpacing the 306-mile Tesla Model Y Performance.

Pricing and Performance: Electric vs. Gas

The iX3 50 xDrive’s total cost of $62,850 makes it cheaper than the gas-powered X3 M50 xDrive, which retails for $67,850. Despite the combustion engine’s 4.4-second 0-60 mph time, the EV offers 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque, compared to the X3 M50’s 393 hp and 428 lb-ft.

Range Breakdown: Tire Choices Impact Mileage

BMW’s range figures vary by tire configuration:

• 20″ summer tires (no-cost option): 434 miles (118 MPGe)
• 20″ all-season tires (standard): 383 miles (102 MPGe)
• 21″ summer tires: 398 miles (105 MPGe)
• 21″ all-season tires: 399 miles (105 MPGe)
• 22″ summer tires: 392 miles (104 MPGe)

BMW attributes the unusual range figures to averaging across different tire brands. The 21″ all-season tires deliver the highest range, despite their higher cost.

Charging Speed: 400 kW Fast Charging

The iX3 M50 supports 400 kW fast charging, allowing it to add 185 miles in just 10 minutes. This positions it ahead of rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Mercedes GLC 400 4Matic, which are expected to offer around 380 miles of EPA range.

M Sport Package Options

Buyers can enhance their iX3 with the M Sport package for $2,500, or opt for the Iconic Glow grille and M Sport brakes/wheels for $4,000.

Key Takeaways

• The iX3 M50 undercuts the gas X3 M50 by $5,000.
• It delivers up to 434 miles of range, outperforming the Tesla Model Y Performance.
• Fast charging adds 185 miles in 10 minutes.
• Range varies by tire choice, with 21″ all-season tires offering the best efficiency.