A second supply has now echoed what we reported earlier this 12 months: the upcoming electrical M model of the iX3 can be referred to as merely the BMW X3 M. Regardless of being absolutely electrical, the mannequin won’t carry the “i” prefix historically used for BMW’s EV lineup. As an alternative, it is going to observe the identical naming conference because the upcoming ZA0 M3 electrical sedan, which can be anticipated to retain the basic M3 badge, even because it shifts away from inner combustion.
This small however significant naming determination suggests a deliberate transfer by BMW M to take care of continuity with its most iconic fashions—whilst they transition into the electrical period. It additionally reinforces our earlier reporting that the next-generation X3 M and X4 M (ZA7) can be electrical solely, with no combustion-powered replacements within the pipeline.
Constructed on Neue Klasse, Powered by the “Coronary heart of Pleasure”
The all-electric X3 M will trip on BMW’s Neue Klasse structure and is anticipated to enter manufacturing in 2027, a 12 months after the usual iX3 (codenamed NA5) arrives in 2026. Internally known as ZA5, the high-performance SUV will type a part of the second wave of Neue Klasse merchandise, following the electrical M3 sedan (ZA0) and previous the X4 M (ZA7).
The M variant is anticipated to share its base powertrain with the iX3 M60 xDrive, although with an M-specific tune. Whereas no energy figures have been formally launched, rumors recommend that BMW M is concentrating on 800 to 900 horsepower for the ZA0 M3, and comparable output is probably going for the X3 M and X4 M. A quad-motor format has been hinted at for each fashions, paired with BMW’s new central automobile dynamics management unit, recognized internally because the Coronary heart of Pleasure.
This technique allows near-instant torque vectoring, unbiased wheel management, and much more granular real-time changes than present M xDrive setups. The end result may very well be one of many sharpest-driving efficiency SUVs available on the market—with out burning a drop of gas.
Extremely-Quick Charging and New Driving Capabilities
Constructed on an 800V electrical structure, the Neue Klasse X3 M will assist extraordinarily quick DC charging—similar to the iX3 50 xDrive prototype, which added 350 km (217 miles) of vary in 10 minutes throughout latest assessments. BMW claims the system can maintain peak charging charges of over 400 kW for a number of minutes earlier than tapering. A full 10–80% state of cost is feasible in about 20 minutes, below ideally suited circumstances.
These specs ought to carry over largely unchanged to the M variant, giving the X3 M not simply efficiency on par with present ICE M automobiles, however real-world usability and long-distance functionality as nicely.
Daring Design, Acquainted Structure
Styling for the X3 M will construct on the usual iX3, which is itself impressed by the Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse X idea. Anticipate a cleaner, extra aerodynamic design with futuristic lighting, flush surfaces, and tight overhangs. However as with earlier M SUVs, the X3 M will dial up the aggression with wider arches, decrease stance, distinctive wheels, and a extra sculpted entrance and rear fascia.
Inside, the dashboard format will observe the Neue Klasse design language: Panoramic Imaginative and prescient, head-up show, iDrive X, and a minimalist interface that blends bodily and digital controls. M-specific seats, trim, and efficiency graphics will possible set it aside from commonplace fashions. And for the primary time within the mannequin’s historical past, the X3 M will almost definitely embrace a entrance trunk (frunk)—a sensible benefit made potential by the electrical platform.
No Extra Gasoline-Powered X3 M or X4 M
One of many greatest takeaways from this new data is that there can be no ICE-powered successors to the G01 X3 M and G02 X4 M. The shift to totally electrical M SUVs marks a turning level for BMW M and confirms a method that has been hinted at for years: prioritize EV improvement on the prime of the efficiency ladder, beginning with halo fashions just like the M3 and X3 M.
That is according to the inner rollout order as nicely. Whereas the usual iX3 (NA5) will launch earlier than the Neue Klasse i3 sedan (NA0), the M3 EV (ZA0) is rumored to debut forward of the X3 M (ZA5). The X4 M (ZA7) will observe shortly after, possible sharing most of its underpinnings with the ZA5. [Posted by ynguldyn]
