• Just as much space as an X3
• Quiet and refined on the move
• Class-leading infotainment

How is the quality and layout?

Being so closely based on the X3, it’s no massive surprise that the interior of the iX3 is as familiar as it is. It’s short of EV-specific bells and whistles, but there’s no faulting the iX3’s dashboard and controls – you get actual buttons and knobs for the air conditioning and infotainment, and the centrally-mounted screen is an object lesson in clarity.

Compared with the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Mercedes-Benz EQA, it’s a simple and straightforward cabin that’s roomy and well-built, with an excellent driving position. The quality of materials is also noteworthy – with ample use of soft-touch plastics for the dashboard and major controls.

Infotainment and tech

The iX3 is a high-end version of the X3, so it comes with plenty of tech as standard, with the BMW iDrive controller being a particular highlight. We really rate this iteration of the firm’s infotainment system. The 10.3-inch display offers control by the touchscreen or a wonderfully tactile rotary controller between the seats. We’d always prefer using the iDrive controller as it allows you to operate the system without taking your eyes off the road.

There are M Sport and M Sport Pro editions on offer, with the latter adding more tech, including a head-up display, Harman Kardon surround sound system, gesture control (although this is a bit of a gimmick that is of limited use) and automatic high beam assistant.

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Comfort

• Excellent quality for a family EV
• Virtually silent at all speeds
• Firm ride, but well damped

Smooth, refined and luxurious is the best way of describing the iX3 in terms of comfort. The ride is a little on the firm side, since the suspension needs to compensate for the heavy battery that the car is carrying. But on the motorway the car is settled and comfortable, while around town it’s quiet and smooth.

The extra weight of the battery certainly helps smooth out bumps, while the firm suspension suits M Sport models and their sporty character. M Sport spec also includes sportier seats with larger side bolsters than normal, designed to hold front passengers in place.

All models come with plush leather seats as standard, while other luxuries include full electric adjustment for the fronts, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. In the back there are air vents and USB sockets for charging devices.