From equivalent of RM 246k, NA5 BMW iX3 launched in Japan – 50 xDrive, 469 PS, up to 906 km range

The NA5-generation BMW iX3 has been officially launched in Japan, making it one of the latest right-hand-drive markets in the Asia-Pacific region to welcome the all-new battery electric (BEV) crossover, following earlier introductions in Thailand, Singapore and Australia.

Similar to Thailand, the Japanese-market iX3 is offered in the 50 xDrive guise, although Japan gets a choice of both base and M Sport versions. The former is priced at 9.82 million yen (~RM 246,240), while the latter goes for 10.34 million yen (~RM 259,280)

Underpinning the iX3 is BMW's sixth-generation eDrive powertrain, which pairs an asynchronous motor generating 167 PS and 255 Nm at the front with an electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear producing 326 PS and 435 Nm. Together, the dual-motor setup delivers a potent combined output of 469 PS and 645 Nm.

Power is supplied by a new 109.1-kWh battery featuring BMW's latest cell-to-pack architecture, enabling a WLTC-rated driving range of up to 906 km on the standard 50 xDrive, while the M Sport is rated at 835 km.

Built on BMW’s new 800V architecture, the iX3 supports DC fast charging at up to 320 kW, enabling a 10-80% recharge in around 26 minutes. Additionally, BMW says that when using future 350 kW-per-port chargers planned for installation at locations such as the Ebina Service Area in Japan, the model can add up to 420 km of range in 15 minutes. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality are also supported.

Adding to the iX3’s new-generation technology suite is BMW’s “Heart of Joy” control unit, which manages the vehicle’s driving dynamics. As one of four high-performance “super brains” in the vehicle, it coordinates the drivetrain, braking, energy recuperation and steering systems, enabling faster processing and more precise control.

As the first production model based on BMW's Neue Klasse platform, the iX3 introduces the brand's latest design language, combining familiar BMW cues with a more minimalist approach. Highlights include vertically oriented kidney grilles and LED headlights, an illuminated Iconic Glow grille surround, flush door handles, body-coloured wheel arches and redesigned horizontal L-shaped taillights.

Inside, the cabin is headlined by BMW's new Panoramic iDrive interface, comprising a 43.3-inch Panoramic Vision display spanning the base of the windscreen and a 17.9-inch central touchscreen.

Other key features include the new BMW 3D Head-Up Display, Operating System X, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, over-the-air software updates, as well as support for AirConsole gaming, video streaming services and Zoom video conferencing while parked.

Standard safety equipment includes Driving Assist Plus, while Highway Assist enables hands-free driving support on expressways at speeds of up to 130 km/h under certain conditions, with the driver still required to remain attentive and ready to take control.

With the iX3 now launched in more Asian markets, attention turns to its arrival in Malaysia, which is expected sometime in Q3 this year. The registration of interest (ROI) page is already live on BMW Malaysia’s website, suggesting that the Neue Klasse BEV SUV is not too far away.

When it arrives in Malaysia, the iX3 is expected to follow the precedent set by the China-made iX1 L, with the long-wheelbase iX3 L (NA6) likely to be the version offered here. Under the China-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement, China-made vehicles benefit from a lower 5% import duty instead of the standard 30% rate.