BMW EX-3 Review: Features, Driving & Is It Worth £60k?

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If you’re eyeing a premium EV SUV, the BMW EX-3—BMW’s first Neuer Klasse architecture car—might be top of your list. Priced at £60k and launching in the UK in March, it promises a 500-mile range and sporty performance. But does it live up to BMW’s legacy of ergonomics and fun?

After analyzing Autocar’s hands-on review (including road and slalom tests), I’ll break down its key features, driving feel, and whether it’s worth your investment.

Key Technical Specs & Architecture

The EX-3 sits on BMW’s Neuer Klasse platform, built for electric vehicles. It has a 108kWh battery under the chassis, delivering up to 500 miles of range. Its 800V electric architecture allows 400kW fast charging—critical for long trips.

Dual motors (462hp total) offer rear-biased four-wheel drive, but BMW chose passive suspension (struts front, multilink rear) over active systems. Autocar’s engineer sources say this cuts costs and avoids power drain while maintaining a balanced ride.

Interior & Driving Experience

The EX-3’s interior is radical—for better and worse. The panoramic instrument panel (projected low on the windscreen) keeps your eyes on the road without a head-up display. But the lack of physical buttons is a pain: HVAC and vent controls are all on the central touchscreen.

As the reviewer notes, his 20-year-old BMW 3 Series has better ergonomics. Still, the driving position is solid, and back seats/boot space are family-friendly.

On the road, passive suspension shines: it balances composure (tight body control over crests) and ride compliance. Sport mode adjusts steering weight and power distribution, and the low center of gravity (from the battery) makes it stable in slaloms. It’s not a track car, but more engaging than most EVs.

Future Outlook & Final Thoughts

The EX-3 is just the start: an i3 saloon and M version are coming. The i3 may appeal more to keen drivers, as the EX-3’s interior quirks could turn off traditional BMW fans.

EVs are moving from functional to fun, and the EX-3 shows BMW’s progress. But it’s not perfect—ergonomics need work, and the £60k price tag is steep.

Toolbox for Potential Buyers

Checklist for Test Drives

1. Test the EX-3 with 20-inch wheels (engineers recommend this for the best ride-handling balance).
2. Spend 10 minutes using the infotainment to see if touchscreen controls work for you.
3. Compare it to the upcoming i3 if you prioritize driver engagement.
4. Check Autocar’s full review for detailed specs and launch updates.
5. Listen to Autocar’s podcast for deeper EV insights.

Recommended Resources

• Autocar’s Full Review: Visit autocar.co.uk for in-depth analysis.
• Autocar Podcast: Search “UK Autocar” to hear more about EV trends and the EX-3.

Conclusion

The BMW EX-3 is a strong premium EV with great driving dynamics and a long range. But its touchscreen-heavy interior and £60k price tag are potential drawbacks.

When considering the EX-3, which feature concerns you most—the lack of physical buttons or the cost? Share your thoughts in the comments below.