Next-gen BMW X3 M to be battery electric only

SOCIAL media scuttlebutt suggests time has been called on BMW’s ICE-powered X3 M high performance medium-size SUV; the model succumbing to the company’s ongoing transition to BEVs.

With the arrival of the G45-series X3 imminent, BMW has only mentioned a “G97” (X3 M) in passing, the internal codename circulated online and considered a potential successor to the current F97-series X3 M.

But apart from that one leak, the German manufacturer has remained schtum about possible M variants with pundits now tipping the 3.0-litre turbocharged AWD petrol vehicle will be replaced by a BEV hot rod.

In the past, BMW has commenced development of M variants of new models on the run up to and after the initial base model launch, but contrary to usual practice, no X3 M “mules” have been sighted at either the Nurburgring racetrack for testing or on streets surrounding BMW’s German factories.

The lack of any more X3 M information has prompted curiosity among customers, readers, and on social media commentators most of whom suspect the X3 M has been scrapped, BMW instead focusing on introducing the first-ever electric X3 M using the same powertrain as the i3 M passenger cars (sedan and Touring wagon) mooted for 2027.

The iX3 M (and iX4 M coupe SUV) will use BMW’s Neue Klasse platform and “signify BMW’s commitment to an electric future”.

Styling wise, insiders say we can expect to see a bold design on both electric crossovers, but with a more “futuristic” look than current X3 M and X4 M current ICE models.

The interior will be a lift from the iX3 with modifications/additions.

No power figures have been divulged suffice to say up to 600kW has been whispered – like the i3 M.

It appears all is not lost for ICE loving X3 M enthusiasts as it is possible the X3 M50 (becoming available in Australia with the G45 generation) will fill the bill as the top combustion powered X3… potentially uprated and modified.

If that should transpire, it would provide buyers with a high-performance replacement for the X3 M though possibly not as hard edged from a sporty standpoint.

The X3 M50 runs a version BMW’s B58 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with mild hybrid electric assistance for 293kW and 540Nm driving all wheels through an eight-speed conventional automatic transmission.

The set-up powers the M50 from 0-100km/h in a quick 4.6 seconds while using premium at a possible combined rate of around 8.0 litres per 100km.

The X3 M is a niche product and as push comes to shove economically in the car manufacturing space, volume is paramount.

The dramatically changing automotive landscape is impacting on manufacturer’s plans with all pushing to introduce electric vehicles even with the current softening of demand… all of which drives another nail into the coffin of models such as the BMW X3 M.

Reports suggests the replacement iX3 M, codename ZA5 will be on the Neue Klasse architecture, have at least 450kW, 30 per cent more range and faster charging than current BMW EVs and include the latest and greatest interior technology featuring the Panoramic Display.