Our new long-termer fuses two of the latest driver trends for SUVs and EVs into one family- and eco-friendly solution. John Challen finds out more.

Our new iX3 long termer

BMW G08 iX3 Premier Edition Pro   

Report 1:

It’s not often that I get into a car and feel instantly at home. But that was the case with our latest fleet addition, the iX3. We’re big fans of the BMW product range, so it should come as no surprise that a few moments with the new EV should create such a reaction. It’s comfortable, spacious, got a decent driving range and is generally a very nice place to be.

I’ve racked up quite a few miles already – trips to Manchester and the Midlands have tested how accurate that range is – and arrived pretty fresh at my destination each time. We’ve opted for the Premier Edition Pro, which means a whole host of comfort, safety and convenience options. Standard bits include automatic air conditioning, adaptive suspension, 20-inch black alloys and sportsseats upfront.

Meanwhile, the extra options as part of the Premier Edition Pro spec include front heated seats, head-up display, high-beam assist and a very impressive Harman/Kardon sound system.

One option however that I have struggled with on more than one occasion is ‘gesture control’, which often appears too clever for its own good. Any inadvertent hand movements can result in the radio changing channel or a change in the volume. I’m struggling to see the point of it, if I’m honest, but I’ll persevere…

Other than that, the iX3 appears to be an almost perfect package. The latest version of iDrive works pretty seamlessly, smartphone connectivity is instant and, even though it’s totally subjective, I think it looks great!

John Challen