BMW iX3 review

Here we see the compromises of not using a specialist EV platform. The iX3 isn't all that big in the back, which is the same trouble the Mercedes EQC has. Same as a standard X3, and much less than the Jaguar I-Pace.

Still, the comparatively short wheelbase means a long rear overhang, and with it a big boot: there’s 510-litres of room back there, or 1,560 litres with the seats down. More than you get from the Ford Mustang Mach-E, but less than the I-Pace. Do what you will with that information.

The cabin has a load of tech as standard, but it's mostly straightforward to use. Hardware switches cover the climate, driving modes, assists and much else besides, whilst an iDrive clickwheel can also control the screen.

Design-wise we fear the iX3 is beginning to look a little dated, but then we're forever complaining about a lack of switchgear in other cars so three cheers for BMW for resisting the urge to think EVs = future = shove all functionality into the infotainment.

The forward-reverse lever is where you expect it to be, down on the not-transmission-tunnel, and flicking it over to the left puts the iX3 in its one-pedal-style Brake mode. There's a tray for phones, and useful storage underneath the central armrest.

An electric-specific gauge or two appears in the cluster: a power-regen dial in place of the rev-counter, and a battery gauge instead of fuel. And you can call up more efficiency data in the central display. But otherwise it's all very much BMW-business-as-usual in here.

Complete with supportive leather seats, a fine driving position, a standard panoramic glass roof and strong material quality, it's very hard to fault. Much like the regular X3.