BMW X3 2022: xDrive30e PHEV will join refreshed medium SUV range in Australia this year

John Law

Contributor

BMW has revealed an update for the X3 midsize SUV with more technology and light styling tweaks.

The 2022 BMW X3 will arrive in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2021 and bring with it a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time.

When it arrives, the plug-in hybrid will complement the forthcoming electric iX3. This will make the X3 the first BMW to offer petrol, diesel, PHEV and fully electric drivetrains in Australia.

BMW X3 xDrive30e 2022-4 — The updated X3 lineup will arrive with a new hybrid powertrain.

That extra breadth will give more choice to buyers who may be considering a Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, Audi Q5 and Lexus NX.

The plug-in powertrain combines a two-litre petrol turbocharged engine with an electric motor. Combined outputs of the xDrive 30e are 215kW of power and 420Nm of torque. The X3 will send grunt to all four wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Apart from the new xDrive 30e powertrain, the X3 also has a new look. Following in the footsteps of the 5 Series life cycle impulse, the 2022 X3 gets narrower headlights with blue detailing.

BMW X3 xDrive30e 2022-3 — Outside the X3 is familiar, but tidier than before.

The grille has been further emphasised though it retains a more conventional kidney shape. Around the rear, the X3 received a similar treatment with tidier lighting features and more muscular bumpers.

Also new are the alloy wheel designs, which range in size from 19 to 21-inches in size, depending on trim.

Additionally, BMW has redesigned the M Sport body kit for greater aggression. Exactly which models will get the M Sport treatment are yet to be confirmed, but the M40i certainly will.

BMW X3 xDrive30e 2022-2 — The X3 benefits from the centre console of the BMW 4 Series coupe.

BMW has taken the centre console and control centre of the 4 Series and adapted it to the 2022 X3. The difference is slight but noticeable. Above that is a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen which is standard on all models.

A 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a head-up display will be standard equipment on all Australian X3s.

The steering wheel design is new as well, with the xDrive30e picking up blue highlights to emphasise its eco-credentials. Sports seats will be standard across the range, too.

BMW X3 xDrive30e 2022 — The Australian engine lineup remains unchanged, save for the addition of the xDrive30e.

The X3 will continue with the same powertrain lineup as before. The sDrive20i employs a two-litre turbocharged petrol engine that drives the rear wheels and develops 135kW/300Nm.

Stepping up to the xDrive30i sees outputs climb to 185kW/350Nm while the range-topping X3 M40i makes 285kW/500Nm from a three-litre straight-six motor.

BMW Australia has retained the diesel options. The xDrive20d is a familiar two-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel that makes 140kW/400Nm. BMW will also offer a three-litre straight-six turbodiesel in the xDrive30d cranking out 195kW and 620Nm.

Detailed pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to the Australian launch of the new X3.