[Auto] BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid test: good range

[#Em i[N]O']

 

By converting to the plug-in hybrid, the BMW X3 highlights improved fuel economy and top performance with nearly 300 horsepower in total.

Since last year, plug-in hybrid technology has arrived in droves within the BMW range, on low sedans, but also SUVs. Almost all segments are affected, from X1 to X5, via X3. It is precisely the latter that we tested in its xDrive30e version, constituting the new top of the range of the classic model, with the exception of the Motorsport versions. Now, thanks to the thermal / electric combination, it is the threshold of 300 horsepower that the Bavarian SUV touches while showing great promise on its technical sheet in terms of sobriety. It still had to be verified by means of a profile of various roads, mixing portions of town, countryside and motorway.

For this test, we opted for the M Sport finish, close to the top of the range. The added value is cosmetic, the pilot suspension is not available for technical reasons related to the implementation of the hybrid system. Synonymous with a combined power of 292 horsepower, it combines the 184 horsepower 4-cylinder petrol engine and a 113 hp electric motor integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. A different philosophy from the little brother X1, for which the electrical block takes place on the rear axle. With its status as a permanent all-wheel-drive model, the X3 offers reassuring behavior, without losing its playful tone. Thus, despite different technical choices, the two Bavarian SUVs evolve in unison in their ability to put hybrid technology at the service of driving pleasure. With precise steering and a well-balanced chassis, the X3 does not generate any discomfort, despite the large optional 20-inch rims.

 

 

Not eligible for the bonus
The thing to remember about this xDrive30e version is the breadth of its operation. On the one hand, you can feel your raging potential, released at the top of your lungs when you switch from Sport mode. On the other, we appreciate its discreet and sober evolution in zero emission mode. As a caveat, we can note the lack of lateral support for the seats, which remain comfortable on a long journey thanks to an adjustable lumbar support. Otherwise, the good surprise comes from the high level of soundproofing, reinforced by the soundproofing glazing included in the Comfort Pack. The first third of our route, with an urban profile, is the opportunity to engage the Max eDrive mode to verify that the real autonomy is well founded. After 35 km in a row in zero emissions, the test is validated. Dedicated to 100% electric driving, this mode should allow a plug-in hybrid vehicle to evolve without restriction in future low-emission urban areas. Subsequently, we switch to Auto eDrive, operating management between thermal and electrical using GPS data, while the Battery Control mode ensures the maintenance of the charge, or even reconstitutes it using the thermal engine. In addition to the raw consumption values, the driving data is transcribed in the form of a graph in the infotainment system, making it possible to assess energy management in real time.

In the end, on a fairly demanding 105 km route, we covered 46 km in electric mode, with an 80% full battery at the start. Fuel consumption thus remained at a contained level, at 5.4 liters. As such, it is worth remembering that the interest of a plug-in hybrid vehicle lies in its ability to be regularly connected, otherwise the overweight of the hybrid system will cause unwanted overconsumption. To be recharged to 80%, our model requires 4:20 on a standard outlet and 2:34 on a 3.7 kW Wallbox. Due to hybridization, the X3 weighs 200 kg more on the scale, while its boot space is reduced by 100 liters. In M Sport uniform, it is displayed at 68,050 euros, but its access price is 59,600 euros. An all-electric version of 286 hp will be unveiled at the end of the year, giving the X3 the status of the first premium vehicle to have a range with four inputs (petrol, diesel, PHEV, 100% electric).

 

 

BMW X3 xDrive30e review: our opinion

Versatility is the key asset of this plug-in hybrid version. Fierce in sport mode, the Bavarian SUV can also be as gentle as a zero emission lamb.

WE love :

Overall approval
Soundproofing
Real autonomy

We like less:

Reduced trunk of 100 liters
Lack of lateral support

 

 

BMW X3 xDrive30e review: technical sheet
DRIVE

Thermal engine: front, 4-cylinder in-line TwinPower Turbo petrol, direct injection, 16 valves, 1998 cc, Stop / Start
Power (hp at rpm): 184 to 5000-6500
Torque (Nm at rpm): 300 to 1350-3700
Electric motor: 109 hp, 265 Nm
Battery: Li-Ion, 12 kWh of capacity (11.15 net), guaranteed for 6 years or 100,000 km
Electric range: 42-51 km (WLTP)
Transmission: permanent all-wheel drive, automatic, double clutch, 8-speed
Total power (hp at rpm): 292
Cumulative torque (Nm at rpm): 420
Curb weight (kg): 2065
Long.xlarg.xhaut. (m): 4.71 × 1.89 × 1.68
Wheelbase (m): 2.86
Tank (l): 50
Maximum speed (km / h): 210 (135 in electric)
0 to 100 km / h (s): 6.1
AV-AR series tires: 245/50 R 19
Test tires: Pirelli 245/45 R 20
 

LIVE

Front / rear elbow width (cm): 153/148
Rear leg space (cm): 75
Chest 5/2 (l): 450/1500
RECOMMENDED OPTIONS

Park Assist Plus: € 450
20 '' alloy wheels: € 1,150
Panoramic glass sunroof: € 1,850
Comfort Pack: € 1,850
MAIN COMPETITORS

Audi Q5 50 TFSI e quattro S Tronic 7, 299 hp, from € 55,800
Volvo XC60 Recharge T6 AWD Geartronic 8, 340 hp, from € 65,980