2021 BMW iX3 electric SUV revealed early, Australian debut confirmed

The EV (electric vehicle), based on the BMW X3, is expected to be officially unveiled in the coming days or weeks, with an Australian launch confirmed for 2021.

As expected, the iX3 plays much closer to the look of its regular X3 stablemate, just as the i4 will share much with the design of the upcoming new 4 Series.

This approach sets BMW's electric strategy apart from rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace, Audi e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQC – each wearing familiar styling but with unique details and sheet metal.

Last year, BMW revealed the iX3 will be driven by its fifth-generation eDrive technology, headlined by a 210kW/400Nm electric motor powering the rear wheels.

The company has yet to offer word on an all-wheel xDrive variant, which would likely follow as a more powerful dual-motor option – although it will be interesting to see how close BMW would allow the iX3 to come in matching the performance of its hero 375kW X3 M SUV.

The iX3's single motor will be powered by a 74kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and BMW has so far claimed a driving range of 440 kilometres when measured on the tough new WLTP test standard.

Importantly, BMW claims a breakthrough with the iX3's drive system, touting it as the first to be produced without a dependence on rare earth metals.

The company also has a long-term plan to repackage ageing battery cells into stationary power units for applications in projects less demanding that long-range mobility.

Interestingly, every example of the BMW iX3 will be built at the BMW/Brilliance Automotive joint venture plant in Shenyang, China.

When will the BMW iX3 come to Australia?

An Australian debut is confirmed, and the local arm tells Drive we can expect a local debut to occur in the latter part of 2021.

BELOW: the current BMW X3

Below: the iX3 concept