The new BMW X3 has been well received by the market and journalists alike. Sales figures show an increase of 60 percent compared to the old model so far and things are looking good for the future. However, some customers have complained about the limited engine choice you get when ordering one, especially in the US, where there are only two of them available. Over in Europe, the diesel mills complete the range but on the other side of the Atlantic, things aren’t as great.
If you’re looking to get yourself a more frugal X3, one that could possibly even run on electricity alone, you’re in luck. BMW’s CEO, Mr. Harald Kruger just confirmed in a statement that the highly anticipated plug-in hybrid X3 is coming next year. Alongside it we’ll also get to see the new plug-in hybrid X5, although the two will have considerably different powertrains hidden under the sheet metal.
The plug-in hybrid will be using the same combination the 330e plug-in hybrid will have once it arrives. It will use a 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine alongside an electric motor positioned between the engine and the gearbox. Together they will deliver some 275 HP, with a bit more for short periods of time, thanks to a new function called XtraBoost. The specifics are yet to be announced though, so stay tuned.
The X5 on the other hand, will be using a 3-liter straight six engine under the hood, and a similar positioning for the electric motor. Unlike the xDrive30e X3, the xDrive45e X5 will have almost 390 HP at its disposal, to make sure you don’t ever feel the need for more grunt when driving it. EV range on the two is expected to be closer to 30 miles in real life scenarios, a noticeable improvement over the outgoing xDrive40e model in the X5 range.
I’ve seen a ton of X5 40e in my neighborhood and honestly think the new one is the perfect replacement for anyone who loved the X5 35d, especially since the hybrid finally has a flat 6. The X3 30e is also a good idea, especially since Audi doesn’t have much in the electric/plug-in range at the moment other than the A3, and the E-Tron, and Mercedes honestly I don’t think they care about the C and GLC 350e, most people don’t even know they exist.
It’s not a flat 6, the G05 X5 will have some version of the B58 inline 6
oops meant to say straight six, was writing on the forums about a porsche boxster, must have gotten stuck in my head lol!
So you go both ways! So long as it’s not a V6, even Hyundai have one of those.
No problem, we all make mistakes. I certainly wouldn’t mind a Boxer 6!
Last time I looked, BMW had the largest range of hybrids in my market, M-B were selling 2 hybrid SUVs.
Sadly the X3 PHEV is the closest we Murcians will ever get to a plug in bmw wagon
Well, we Europeans will not get a plug-in BMW wagon/Touring either.
The 5 series or 3 series plug-in hybrids are only for the sedan/limousine versions for some odd reason. So, if we want practicality and plug-in hybrids we are both faced with the same choices…
Isn’t there the 2 Series Active Tourer MPV with the i8 hybrid drive train in your market?
Ok, yes that there is but in my view its not the same as a Touring, and the trunk is rather small. At least I have had the 2 Series Active Tourer non-hybrid once when my car was in for a service and the space is very limited.
Sadly, the market has moved to crossovers. Apparently we boomers can’t bend down to get into a car. Mom wanted a convertible. Bought a minivan.
Apples & oranges but they’ll sell you a Countryman hybrid & iX3 is waitlisted. In Norway.
Pears not oranges.
when is the x6 coming
I’d buy a X5 45e instantly, but unfortunately it will not be available with 6 or 7 seats.
Perfect timing! Our X5 40e lease is up in 2020 and we love the vehicle. My wife can charge at work and we are averaging 45mpg. It would be better if we hadn’t moved, but the 45e will be able to get her to work on electricity alone.