TRUE, design is subjective, but if you ask this writer, the G90 BMW M5 seems somewhat lackluster despite having a powerful hybrid beating heart that can produce a whopping 717 hp and 1,000 Nm.
Fortunately for future owners out there, BMW has introduced a host of M Performance Parts to emphasise the athletic side and enhance the aerodynamics of the high-performance sedan.
According to the automaker, the exterior components of M Performance Parts are made from weight-saving, high-tech carbon fibre. These include the front splitter and rear diffuser – both divided into two sections.
Also included are sill extensions, a rear spoiler, and tailpipe trims made from a titanium/carbon fibre mix and adorned with embossed M5 logos.
Not stopping there, BMW also offers a carbon fibre fuel tank cap and Frozen Black side decals which the automaker claim can withstand commercial car washes. M Performance light-alloy wheels will be offered from summer 2025.
Interestingly, customers can also get M Performance tyre bags. With a logo in BMW M colours and a graphic indicating the wheel position, these bags definitely scream motorsport.
As for the interior, not much is offered save for M Performance floor mats featuring decorative stitching in contrasting colours and M Performance badging, as well as a key case wrapped in black fine-grain nappa leather.
With a 4.4-litre biturbo V8 engine assisted by a hybrid system, an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the M5 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds.
It may sound impressive, but the new generation car is actually 0.2 seconds slower than the F90 M5 due to its weight, which nearly reaches 2.5 tonnes.
However, unlike previous iterations, the latest M5 can now travel up to 69 km without using a drop of fuel thanks to an 18.6 kWh battery pack.
IAN Cameron, the designer of BMW and Rolls-Royce, was tragically murdered at his residence in Bavaria on 12th of July. He was 74 years old. His wife, Verena Kloose, managed to escape from the house and notify the authorities, but the police were unable to apprehend the suspect.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the news about our former Rolls-Royce designer. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during these difficult hours,” said BMW in a statement published by Automotive News.
CEO of Rolls-Royce, Chris Brownridge, said, “Ian played a significant role in shaping Rolls-Royce from when it was first acquired by BMW Group and moved to its Home at Goodwood, West Sussex.
“During Ian’s tenure, he led the design team for all Phantom family and Ghost models, creating thoroughly contemporary motor cars that remained sympathetic to the marque’s design lineage. My thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Cameron was also part of the design team that created the BMW Z8. His most popular design was the Rolls-Royce Phantom 2003, which has influenced the design direction of every Rolls-Royce to this day. He was involved in the exterior design of the Range Rover L322 when the brand was under BMW.
However, Cameron’s career began at Pininfarina in 1975, and he had his own design firm after retiring from BMW. According to investigators, the murder suspect is believed to have been attempting to steal Cameron’s collection of luxury cars at his residence in Lake Ammersee.
The Times reported that the power to Cameron’s house was cut and the security cameras were disabled, so there is no recording of the attacker, but the German police are actively pursuing the case.
Perhaps there are some who feel that their BMW is already expensive enough to disturb their pockets, but there are those who become ‘richer’ after owning a BMW.
An American man has won a lawsuit worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million) after his finger was caught and severed by a door with a soft-close function.
Godwin Boateng, a self-employed software engineer, claimed that the soft-close door on his 2013 BMW X5 was not functioning properly and trapped the tip of his thumb.
In the incident in July 2016, Boateng was resting his finger on the driver’s door of the X5 with the door open about one foot. The door then closed, trapping his thumb until it severed. Surgeons were unable to reattach his finger.
Boateng sued BMW for an amount of USD 3 million (RM 14.13 million), stating that he would face a loss of USD 250,000 (RM 1.12 million) in annual income as a self-employed software engineer.
BMW inspected Boateng’s X5 and determined that there was no issue with the soft-close door. The German company also stated that the owner’s manual warned about the door and mentioned that the “the plaintiff understood since childhood not to put a finger or body part between a door and its frame while it is closing.”
The case gained traction, and earlier this month, the jury agreed to award compensation worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million). BMW was not found guilty for the faulty door, but the jury still believed the company was 100 percent at fault for Boateng’s thumb injury.
In the lawsuit claim, Boateng argued that BMW’s soft-close door is more dangerous compared to windows that use sensors to detect objects between the window and frame.
The lawsuit also included graphic descriptions of Boateng’s thumb injury, stating that the door not so “softly snapped through the flesh, nerves, blood vessels, tendons, musculature, and bone structure of Boateng’s right thumb.”
Following the assessment, BMW maintained that there was no damage to the vehicle or the functioning of the soft-close door.
However, it is uncertain whether they will make any design changes in the future.
Nearly 25 years ago, on September 1, 1999, the very first X5 (E53) rolled off BMW’s Spartanburg assembly plant, thus creating the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) category embraced by the automaker to this day.
To celebrate the momentous occasion, BMW is offering the X5 Silver Anniversary Edition, a limited-edition model based on the G05 X5 xDrive40i that features off-road-focused upgrades.
Starting with the exterior, the X5 Silver Anniversary Edition comes in the Lime Rock Grey Metallic paint picked straight from the BMW Individual catalogue
The classy shade is complemented by the Extended Shadowline Trim, which includes dark-coloured trims on the window surrounds, roof rails, fender mounted Air Breathers, and the standard illuminated kidney grille.
Inside, the sport seats are upholstered either in Black, Cognac, Coffee, or Silverstone Sensafin. Carbon fibre trims on the centre console and dashboard, usually available only on the X5 M60i and X5 M Competition, are included as well.
Other features include a curved display with BMW Operating System 8.5, Live Cockpit Professional, head-up display, and navigation with Augmented Reality display. You will also find the Silver Anniversary Edition plaque on the center console.
What makes the X5 Silver Anniversary Edition more appealing is the inclusion of the xOffroad package, which is not offered on any other current BMW X model.
Said package includes xSnow, xSand, xGravel, and xRocks driving modes, which function to adjust the vehicle’s ride height, transmission shift strategy, throttle mapping, traction control, and other parameters accordingly.
Bundled together in the package are 2-axle air suspension for increased ground clearance, a mechanical rear differential lock, and underbody protection plates.
There is also a special xOffroad View in the central display that informs the driver about ground clearance, roll tendency, and the inclination or downhill gradient of the terrai. Additionally, an external camera provides views of the terrain from all angles outside the vehicle at speeds below 35 km/h.
BMW also provides a roof rack system, luggage compartment mat, and all-weather floor mats are also included. Customers will also be offered a discount on more aggressive General Grabber All-Terrain tyres purchased and installed at their dealer.
The X5 Silver Anniversary Edition will be limited to just 1,000 units in the United States, with prices starting at $79,900 (RM376,074).
BMW has introduced the fourth-generation X3 known by the codename G45. Replacing the previous G01 model, Munich’s latest Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) showcases a more prominent design, an upgraded chassis, and various new technologies.
Here’s what you need to know about the new X3:
Larger footprint
The X3 G45 measures 4,755 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, making it 34 mm longer, 29 mm wider, and 25 mm lower than the model it replaces. The wheelbase has also increased by 1 mm to 2,865 mm.
New design language
BMW claims the new design language featured on the X3 gives it an almost monolithic overall appearance. This is further accentuated by a new structure for the grille, as well as L-shaped lighting elements for daytime running lights, side lights, and turn signals.
There are nine colorus available for the new X3, with one being soild and the rest metallic, including Dune Grey. Models produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg will additionally be available with BMW Individual paint finishes.
Depending on the variant, the model comes with lightweight alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 21 inches. The M Sport and M Sport Pro packages are also offered.
High-tech interior
Like most current BMW models, the X3 features a Curved Display and Interaction Bar. The gear lever has been redesigned, while the centre console and door trim are accentuated with lighting elements in contrasting colours.
For infotainment, it employs the latest BMW iDrive with QuickSelect powered by BMW Operating System 9. The operating system also brings selection of additional digital services, which can be made available over the air.
Other standard features include a three-zone climate control system, acoustic glazing, Comfort Access, automatic tailgate, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and BMW Live Cockpit Plus. Customers can also opt for the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which includes a head-up display and the Augmented View function in the control display.
The X3 comes standard with features such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, and a Driving Assistant package that includes Lane Change Warning and Speed Limit Assist.
Comprehensive ADAS suite
Onboard the X3 are features such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, and a Driving Assistant package that includes Lane Change Warning and Speed Limit Assist.
The Parking Assistant, which is also a standard feature, includes Reversing Assistant and a Reversing Assist Camera.
Additionally, BMW offers Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Route Speed Control when using Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.
The optional Parking Assistant Professional allows parking and general manoeuvres to be controlled from outside the car using a smartphone.
It’s hybrid or nothing
The X3 is available in mild hybrid (20 xDrive, 20d xDrive, and M50 xDrive) and PHEV (30e xDrive) guises. The 20 xDrive variant is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine (190 PS/310 Nm), while the 20d xDrive has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (197 PS/400 Nm).
The X3 M50 xDrive features a 3.0-litre inline-six mill with mild hybrid technology generating 381 PS and 540 Nm, while the X3 30e xDrive comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and an electric motor producing a total system output of 299 PS and 450 Nm.
Market launch
The new X3 will be assembled at BMW Group plants in Spartanburg, USA, and Rosslyn, South Africa. Its market launch will get underway in Europe and the USA in the fourth quarter of 2024, progressing across numerous other markets from January 2025.
BMW Malaysia today introduced the Final Edition model for three of its locally assembled models, namely the 218i Gran Coupe, X3 sDrive20i, and X3 xDrive30e.
All three models retain the powertrain and M Sport package but gain sportier looks, alongside a more comprehensive equipment list.
For the 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition, the sedan’s appearance is now accentuated by the addition of Shadowline with Extended Contents and 18-inch M light alloy wheels Y-spoke 553 M Bicolour.
Furthermore, the cabin now features telephony with wireless charging and a 10-speaker HiFi loudspeaker system with 205W amplifier output.
Meanwhile, both the X3 sDrive20i Final Edition and the X3 xDrive30e Final Edition now come with M Lights Shadowline and M high-gloss Shadowline with extended contents. contents. Exclusive for the latter is the M Sport brake in red high-gloss.
Moving onto driving assistance systems, the two Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) are now equipped with Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go Function on top of their existing Driving Assistant.
The X3 xDrive30e Final Edition also gets the head-up display, as well as the Parking Assistant Plus, which gives it a 360-degree surround view camera and Remote View 3D.
For their Final Editions, both models now feature telephony with wireless charging.
In terms of colour availability, the 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition is available in exterior colours Skyscraper Grey, Black Sapphire and Alpine White, while the interior upholstery is available in Leather Dakota in Black with Blue highlights.
The X3 sDrive20i Final Edition and X3 xDrive30e Final Edition can be had in exterior colours Carbon Black, Alpine White and M Brooklyn Grey.
As for the interior upholstery options, the former is available in Leather Vernasca in Mocha with Décor stitching and Leather Vernasca in Black with Décor Stitching, while the latter is available in Leather Vernasca in Mocha with Décor stitching and Leather Vernasca in Black with Blue stitching.
The selling price of the 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition starts from RM223,800. Customers who opt for the Service & Repair Inclusive package will have to fork out an additional RM20,600.
Meanwhile, the X3 sDrive20i Final Edition and X3 xDrive30e Final Edition are each sold at RM311,800 and RM357,800, respectively. The Service & Repair Inclusive package for both variants is available for RM26,700.
BMW enjoys showcasing their new cars at the Villa d’Este event. This year, they revealed the Skytop, a two-seater convertible that is said to be inspired by the Z8 and 503.
“BMW Concept Skytop is a unique model with an exotic design, following the tradition of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.
“It offers a combination of dynamic and elegant driving at the highest level, following previous models such as the Z8 or BMW 503.”
The relationship between the Concept Skytop and the Z8 is quite evident. The slim taillights with a shark-like nose are a clear inspiration from the early 2000s roadster. The sculpted hood design, small front lights, and upright rear deck also remind us of the 503 from the 1950s.
BMW did not provide any details or performance specifications, but if guessed, it might use a 4.4-liter V8 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive from the M8 Competition.
The theme, like the M8, continues to the interior. The dashboard seems to be taken directly from the 8-Series, with a digital instrument display, infotainment, and a central console as we usually see.
But the unique roll bar behind the seats looks truly exceptional for this concept, featuring a power window. The roof is also with a two-part mechanism that can be manually removed and stored in the trunk.
Although the Skytop looks like a concept that makes sense to be realized, we don’t feel it will be released officially.
BMW already has the 8-Series coupe and convertible, so there’s certainly no reason to produce a targa version like this, even though it looks so cool.
Besides the i5 M60 and 520i, BMW Group Malaysia also launched four new motorcycles at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 held at MAEPS, Serdang.
According to the company, these launches showcase its dedication to setting new benchmarks in the industry, promising thrilling experiences for riders across Malaysia.
BMW CE 02 (RM38,500)
Introduced globally in July of last year, the CE 02 was developed for urban and city environments, with a rugged, practical, and minimalist design.
It is powered by an electric motor on the rear wheel capable of producing 15 hp and 55 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in three seconds and reach a maximum speed of 95 km/h.
With a 6 kWh battery, the CE 02 offers a range of up to 100 km. Charging the battery is a breeze with the included 900W external charger, ensuring convenient charging at standard household sockets.
It also supports fast charging with a capacity of up to 1,500 W, which takes 1 hour and 40 minutes for a 20%-80% charge or 3 hours and 30 minutes for a full charge.
BMW F 900 GS (RM88,500)
The new BMW F 900 GS unveils an array of innovative features and technologies tailored for the local market. One contributing factor is a weight reduction of 14 kg, bringing the current total weight to only 219 kg.
The displacement of its parallel-twin engine has also been increased from 853 cc to 895 cc. It generates 105 hp at 8,500 rpm and 93 Nm at 6,750 rpm, enough to allow the the F 900 GS to accelerate to a top speed of over 200 km/h.
The bike is fitted with the Enduro Pro Package, which includes a fully adjustable titanium nitride-coated upside-down telescopic forks, fully adjustable central spring strut, sport frame, black handlebar, handlebar riser, as well as an M-Endurance chain.
There is also a range of practical and rider-friendly amenities, including an engine guard, hand protectors and adjustable foot brake and gear levers.
BMW R 1300 GS (RM138,500)
The new R 1300 GS redefines expectations for the local market as it unveils a significant improvement to its product substance and vehicle makeup.
Its two-cylinder boxer engine is now more compact and has a displacement of precisely 1,300 cc. It is capable of producing 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm, making it the most powerful BMW boxer engine ever produced in series.
The R 1300 GS boasts an entirely new design that results to an impressive weight reduction of 12 kg, with a total weight of just 237 kg. This lightweight construction is paired with the Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) that adjusts both front and rear damping, along with the spring rate, based on selected riding modes, road conditions, and manoeuvres.
Other features include four riding modes (Rain, Road, Eco, and Enduro), a 6.5-inch color TFT screen, ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Keyless Ride, and more.
BMW S 1000 XR (RM129,500)
Introducing a refreshed look, the new S 1000 XR is the epitome of long-distance capability fused with high-performance dynamics in an adventure sports motorcycle.
The front view of the adventure sports motorcycle maintains its dynamic streamline silhouette, matched with LED turn indicators, headlights with adaptive cornering lights, LED auxiliary lights and Headlight Pro DRL.
Pannier holders, toll card compartment, under-seat storage space, and gizmos such as Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Dynamic Pro riding modes, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and DTC Wheelie are also included.
With a 999 cc inline-four engine producing 170 hp at 11,000 rpm and 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm, the S 1000 XR is said to be capable of reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h.
BMW Malaysia has officially unveiled the latest additions to their fleet of premium sporty sedans, the all-new BMW i5 M60 xDrive and the new locally assembled 520i at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.
BMW i5 M60 xDrive (RM480,000 est.)
The second i5 variant to be introduced here following the eDrive40, the i5 M60 xDrive being the sportier variant features two electric motors that drive all four wheels and deliver a total system output of 601 hp and 795 Nm.
With such power at its disposal, the i5 M60 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 230 km/h.
Located in the underbody, the 83.9-kWh battery offers a range of up to 516 km based on the WLTP cycle.
Charging the battery from 0 to 80% state of charge takes 34 minutes via 205 kW DC fast charging, while a full charge using the 22 kW AC charging requires 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Styling-wise, the i5 M60 comes with the M Performance kidney grille accentuated by the BMW Iconic Glow, 21-inch aerodynamic wheels from the BMW individual line, as well as a host of M Sport Pro parts, including the M rear spoiler, M Lights Shadowline, M High Gloss Shadowline, and M Sport brakes in red high gloss.
The interior feels familiar thanks to the BMW Curved Display consisting a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, as well as the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, featuring 18 speakers and an amplifier output of 655 Watts.
BMW 520i (RM340,000 est.)
Locally assembled in Kulim, Kedah, the 520i features a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain with the revered B48 2.0-litre four-cylinder mill that generates 208 hp and 330 Nm of torque.
With an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels, the sedan is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. It has a top speed of 230 km/h, claims BMW.
The exterior on the 520i features a similar design to the i5, showcasing a sleek and sporty exterior design language. Completing the looks are new 19-inch aerodynamic wheels in 934 bicolour grey.
Inside, you’ll find a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen that make up the BMW Curved Display.
There’s also the illuminated BMW Interaction Bar that enhances driving experience by simplifying control of the air conditioning and other functions.
As for driver assistance systems, the 520i is fitted with Active Cruise Control, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, to name a few.
WHAT you’re looking at here is not a handiwork of West Coast Customs custom shop from the reality TV show Pimp My Ride. It is in fact a one-off BMW XM that has been co-created with Naomi Campbell for the Cannes Film Festival.
Called the Mystique Allure, it is the first vehicle in the brand’s history to be designed using materials from the high fashion industry.
Nearly the entire upper body of the XM Mystique Allure is covered in velvet in a deeply saturated ultramarine shade, while the lower part of the SUV adorned with shimmering Frozen metallic sequins casting hues ranging from intense violet to deep ultramarine;
Its interior is equally luxurious, featuring purple velvet upholstery that touches every nook and cranny, including the roof, door panels, and the M Lounge in the rear.
We’re not sure if Ms Campbell is a fan of fast cars but if the answer is yes, the British supermodel will be more than happy with the XM seeing as how the SUV is the most powerful series-produced model from BMW M.
The XM Mystique Allure is based on the Red Label variant, meaning it has a potent 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that works with an electric motor to make a total power output of 748 PS and 1,000 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h if equipped with the M Driver’s Package.
While not receiving any power upgrades, the XM Mystique Allure has a unique acoustic character thanks to a bespoke adaptation of the BMW IconicSounds Electric developed by renowned composer Hans Zimmer.
This marks BMW’s third consecutive year as the official automotive partner of the Cannes Film Festival. For this year’s event, the company provides an exclusive shuttle service of more than 200 vehicles, including the i7, iX, i5, and XM.
The G82 BMW M4 range is now complete with the arrival of a new Competition Sport variant or more fondly known as the CS.
Positioned between the M4 Competition and the extreme M4 CSL, the M4 CS is designed with specific tuning that balances track-ready performance with every day driving pleasure.
Or in other words, it is not unlike the G80 M3 CS introduced last year. Like that car, this coupe is powered by the same 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces a whopping 550 PS and 650 Nm.
With an 8-speed Steptronic transmission driving all wheels via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the M4 CS is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 302 km/h.
In addition to the engine, the impressive performance of this car is also contributed to by the extensive weight saving solutions carried out by BMW.
Among the measures taken is the use of components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) that includes the roof, bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, side mirror housings, rear diffuser and Gurney-style rear spoiler.
Inside, the lightweight material is also extensively used and can be seen on the center console, paddle shifters, and M Carbon bucket seats.
Additionally, the exhaust system on the M4 CS is more than 4 kg lighter, thanks to the use of a titanium rear silencer.
All in all, lightweight design measures bring the car’s weight down by around 20 kg compared to the M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive.
In the handling department, the car gets the M adaptive suspension system and electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio. For sharper handling, customers can opt for an M front end strut brace.
As for the brakes, it uses M Compound rotors, which can be upgraded to carbon ceramic units. The car rolls on forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design, measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the back, along with track tyres as standard.
Alternatively, customers can specify ultra track tyres or high-performance tyres. The latter is suitable for day-to-day driving and come in the same sizes as a no-cost option.
BMW Malaysia recently unveiled the new BMW iX3 Final Edition, which comes with additional M Performance equipment complementing the M Sport package.
The automaker’s latest offering is built upon the Impressive trim and adds a host of M Performance equipment as standard, consisting of the carbon mirror caps, carbon fibre door sills, rear spoiler, as well as the Adaptive M suspension.
According to BMW, the newly equipped Adaptive M suspension with lifetime upgrade allows the driver to select between the standard comfortable setting or switch to Sport Mode for sportier handling.
The iX3 Final Edition will continue to feature standard equipment such as the 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels 890 M Bicolour, BMW Laserlight and panaromic glass roof.
Inside, there’s automatic air conditioning with three-zone control, electric sport seats for driver and front passenger, Harman Kardon surround sound system, head-up display and acoustic glazing.
Safety-wise, the electric crossover is equipped with Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus as standard.
Powering the rear wheels of the iX3 Final Edition is an electric motor that generates up to 286 hp (210 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm, which enables a century sprint of 6.8 second.
Thanks to a high-voltage battery with a gross capacity of 80 kWh, it can cover a distance of 461 km (WLTP) in one full charge, while recording energy consumptions of as low as 18.5 kWh per 100 km of travel.
The iX3 Final Edition is available in six exterior colours, namely M Carbon Black Metallic, Cashmere Silver, Sophisto Grey, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue and Piemont Red.
Interior upholstery is available in either Leather Vernasca Mocha with Décor Stitching or Leather Vernasca Black with Blue Contrast Stitching.
Pricing starts from RM299,800. Customers can opt for the additional BMW Service & Repair Inclusive consisting of the five-year extended warranty and service package for RM19,800.
BMW Malaysia announced that the all-new BMW iX2 is now open for pre-booking. The electric Sports Activity Coupe is priced from RM282,800 on-the-road, without insurance.
For our market, the iX2 will be available in available in a sole xDrive30 variant, featuring a single electric motor on each axle.
The combination generates 313 PS (230 kW) including a 7 PS (5 kW) boost, allowing the electric crossover to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 180 km/h.
The 66.5 kWh high-voltage battery in the vehicle floor generates a WLTP range of up to 449 km. An 11 kW AC charger enables the battery to be charged from 0 to 100% in 6 hours and 30 minutes, while the 130 kW DC charger requires only 29 minutes to do so.
The iX2 gets its rebellious appearance from the new BMW kidney grille with a black mesh grille and black high-gloss illuminated frame, as well as adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and vertically arranged light signature.
Flush door handles, the M high-gloss Shadow line package and V-spoke style 873 M Bicolour 20-inch M light alloy wheels complete the look.
Like other iX models, the iX2 interior features the BMW Curved Display powered by the BMW Operating System 9. It combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch control display.
The system features the BMW iDrive display and is equipped with BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and a control system with QuickSelect, which is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP).
Other features include wireless charging tray with a built-in cooling system, front armrest with integrated control panel, automatic tailgate, and Harman Kardon Hi-Fi audio system.
There are also sport seats for the driver and front passenger, a 40:20:40 rear seat configuration, and a leather-wrapped multifunction M steering wheel.
According to BMW, the iX2 combines sportiness and comfort through upgraded stabilizer bearings on the front and rear axle, anti-roll bars, M adaptive suspension system, M Sport steering, and M Sport brake system.
As for driving assistance systems, the iX2 offers features such as Active Guard Basis, Driving Assistant Plus, and Parking Assistant Plus, including the Attentiveness Assistant.
The iX2 xDrive30 is available in Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Skyscraper Grey, Cape York Green, Fire Red, M Portimau Blue, and M Brooklyn Grey.
For the interior, customers can opt for the Veganza leather-alternative in M Alcantara (black) with blue stitching, Perforated Black, Perforated Coral Red/Black, Perforated Atlas Grey/Smoke White, and Perforated Mocha.
Customers can also purchase the Inclusive BMW Service & Repair package, which includes a five-year extenderd warranty and service, at RM14,200.
In November last year, the BMW i5 made its debut in Malaysia in the eDrive40 M Sport version. Now, just four months after its arrival, the electric sedan has been upgraded with enhanced charging capabilities and several new features.
The i5 now comes with a 22 kW AC charger that requires less than four hours and 15 minutes for a full charge, which is a whopping four hours faster than the previous 11 kW AC charger.
Continues to be equipped is a high-power 205 kW DC charger, capable of charging the battery from 0 to 80% in just 34 minutes.
The i5 eDrive40 features a single electric motor on the rear axle generating 313 hp and 400 Nm. In Sport Boost, the output is cranked up to 340 hp and 430 Nm, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and onwards to a maximum speed of 193 km/h.
The driving range remains at 582 km based on the WLTP cycle, with electric power supplied by an 89.3 kWh capacity battery located in the underbody.
The i5 exterior highlights include vertical LED strips adorning its headlights, “Sharknose” design kidney grille, BMW Iconic Glow contour lines, as well as an M high-gloss Shadowline package to complete the look.
Available exterior colours include the Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, and Phytonic Blue Metallic.
Additionally, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport now arrives in four new striking colour options, namely, Sophisto Grey Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, Cape York Green Metallic, and Fire Red Metallic.
The interior features the BMW Curved Display consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, both powered by BMW Operating System 8.5.
You’ll also find BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Maps, Digital Key Plus, and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system boasting an amplifier output of 655W and 18 speakers.
For the upholstery, customers can choose from Leather Merino Black, Leather Merino Copper Brown and Leather Merino Silverstone.
The i5 is fitted with an array of advanced safety and driver support features, which include Proactive Care, Driving Assistance Professional, Speed Limit Assist, route control and active navigation guidance, Side Collision Protection, Road Priority Warning and Wrong-way Warning, Crossing-traffic Warning with braking function.
Pricing-wise, the upgraded i5 eDrive40 M Sport starts at RM399,800. The additional 5-Year Extended Warranty and Service Package is available at RM20,300.
BMW Malaysia has announced updates to the BMW iX range for the model year 2024.
Starting now, the fully electric SUV will be offered in only two variants, namely the xDrive50 Sport and M60. This means that the xDrive40 and xDrive40 Sport variants have been discontinued.
With this update, the iX xDrive50 Sport follows in the footstep of the M60 by gaining a 22 kW AC charging, which is capable of reducing the charging time to under 5 hours 30 minutes for a complete 0 to 100% charge.
Additionally, both variants continue to offer fast charging capabilities of up to 195 kW, allowing for 0-80% charging in just 35 minutes.
In addition to faster charging, the xDrive50 Sport variant also gets the dual-axle air suspension system that absorbs road imperfections with precision for a more refined driving experience. The BMW Iconic Sounds Electric is also included as a standard feature.
There are no changes in terms of performance and driving range. The iX xDrive50 Sport, with its 523 hp/765 Nm twin-motor setup, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The WLTP cycle-based driving range is 630 km.
Meanwhile, the iX M60 also features twin electric motors but with a significantly higher output of 619 hp/1,015 Nm (1,100 Nm with Launch Control). It takes 3.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h and can cover a distance of up to 561 km on a full charge.
The iX’s cabin now features the Live Cockpit Professional powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch central screen, multifunction seats, wireless charging, and four-zone automatic air conditioning.
However, the previously available Bower & Wilkins Diamond audio system with 30 speakers, which was present in the M60, seems to have been replaced with the Harman Kardon audio system featuring 18 speakers.
Another standard feature included in this update is the Comfort Access, now featuring BMW Digital Key Plus. This digital key can be shared with up to five compatible devices allowing for convenience to the ownership experience.
For colour options, the iX is available in Alpine White, Mineral White Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Sophisto Grey Metallic with Brilliant Effect, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, and Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic.
For an additional RM6,200, customers can opt for the Aventurine Red Metallic and Individual Storm Bay Metallic shades.
For the interior, BMW Malaysia offers the Interior Design Atelier upholstery in Mocha or Black as standard. Two additional colours, Amido and Castanea, are available for an additional RM17,300.
The starting price is RM465,800 for the xDrive50 Sport variant and RM579,800 for the M60. A five-year extended warranty and service package are available for RM33,200.
BMW Malaysia recently previewed the facelifted fourth-generation BMW X5, which will be offered here in the xDrive50e variant together with the M Sport package as standard.
Looks wise, the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) now appears sharper with redesigned front lights that are 35 mm slimmer than before, a new LED daytime running light signature, M Sport body kit as well as 21-inch M alloy rims to complete the look.
Inside, there’s a 14.9-inch BMW Curved Display powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, iDrive Controller with voice, touch or the optional Gesture Control, ambient Light Bar with crystalline surface structure, and a Harman Kardon audio system.
The centre console in the new X5 features a restructured layout and additional touch-sensitive function keys, with gear changes now executed using a rocker switch. Other creature comforts includ BMW Comfort Access, Driving Assistant Professional, and Parking Assistant Professional.
Like the xDrive45e variant that was offered previously, the X5 xDrive50e continues to be powered by the 3.0-litre inline-six cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, but the plug-in hybrid powertrain is now more potent with a total system output of produces 489 PS and 700 Nm, an increase of 95 PS and 100 Nm.
In addition to higher system output, the electric driving range has also increased to 110 km (WLTP cycle), while the charging can now handle up to 7.4 kW, allowing the vehicle to be charged from 0 to 100% in 4.5 hours.
The X5 xDrive50e M Sport will be offered in four exterior colors, namely Black Sapphire, Manhattan, Mineral White, and Skyscraper Grey. For the interior, customers get a Merino leather upholstery in Black or Tartufo.
Official pricing for the X5 xDrive50e have not been announced yet but according to BMW Malaysia, it is estimated to retail for RM530,000.
BMW is one of the manufacturers in Malaysia that offers a wide range of electric vehicle (EV) models, including the i4, i7, iX1, iX3, and iX. This time, Engear was given the opportunity by BMW Malaysia to spend the weekend with the iX3.
There is a secret, although the iX3 is a relatively new, futuristic, and state-of-the-art EV model, it possesses the characteristics of a traditional BMW. Why? Because it is a true rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
Yes, the BMW M3 now has all-wheel drive with the xDrive system, but the iX3, an EV SUV, is rear-wheel drive. Truly, it’s a strange world we live in now.
RWD Configuration
The BMW iX3 has a rear-wheel-drive configuration because it is powered by a single electric motor installed on the rear axle, with an output of 282hp and 400Nm of torque. This motor draws power from a 73.8kWh battery that gives the iX3 a driving range of up to 453km.
We insist on talking about RWD; why is it so important? Perhaps most drivers don’t care. It’s an interesting fact because when the front tires don’t need to deliver power and only bear the responsibility of steering, it results in a very precise and direct steering feel.
So, does this mean the car is fast? Not necessarily. It just means that the iX3 has the “feel” or sensation of a true sports car; 100% power at the rear tires, 100% steering by the front tires. When was the last time you drove a car like this?
But to say this BMW iX3 is slow, not quite. The performance is still solid. Despite weighing 2,200kg, it’s still capable of accelerating to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, faster than most cars. The maximum speed is capped at “only” 180km/h, as is common with EVs.
However, it’s true that throughout the writer’s experience driving the BMW iX3, handling in corners was quite balanced and satisfying. Its weight is centered, the steering provides plenty of feedback, and the 400Nm of torque is accessible most of the time.
Driving at night is accompanied by BMW Laser Light, which not only looks sophisticated but also provides strong visibility for the driver. Indirectly, this also adds to the safety aspect.
Luxurious and practical for everyday use
The BMW iX3 we drove is an M Sport Impressive variant, so it gets a sporty body kit despite the presence of blue EV elements.
The blue elements can be seen on the closed grille, air intakes on the front bumper, and rear diffuser. However, the sporty elements dominate the exterior design of this iX3 M Sport, such as the 20-inch rims, aggressive side bumpers, and prominent rear diffuser design, in addition to the roof spoiler.
The side profile of the BMW iX3 is still classic SUV, and resembles the X3, signaling its familial aspect with other models. It should also be noted that the lower floor of this iX3 is nearly flat like a sports car, and it works in conjunction with the rear diffuser.
Only the overall cabin area feels ordinary and not too special. Its dashboard displays a design that we are already familiar with, not bad, just perhaps a bit dated.
However, if you diligently delve into its central screen, there is a lot of exclusive content for the electric model. This includes power distribution menus, regenerative mode, and charging planning.
The writer quite likes the 464-watt Harman Kardon audio system in this iX3, which can make you enjoy driving this car because it can play your favorite songs with a very pleasant sound. Even if your spouse asks you to buy a packet of sugar, you will be eager to drive the BMW iX3 even for short distances.
Space is not an issue for the iX3, it is quite spacious with sufficient leg and headroom for five adults.
Travel data
Well, now we shouldn’t forget the fact that the BMW iX3 is an EV, so how about its performance and daily practicality? Is 453km sufficient? In all honesty, when we got the car, its battery was at 95 percent with only 313km of driving range. Oh dear! How did that happen?
It should be noted that the EV car’s range reading is calculated based on the previous driving behavior. Perhaps the previous driver of the iX3 didn’t hold back, enjoying the 400Nm torque it offers.
From the writer’s experience, despite the displayed range being 313km, the writer managed to drive over 350km with 25km of range left when returning the iX3. How so? The writer did a lot of city driving at speeds below 120km/h, with frequent stop-and-go situations.
So, the car’s 2.2-ton weight gave momentum for the regenerative system to replenish energy back into the battery every time the writer slowed down. It can be said that in 90 percent of the writer’s driving situations, the brake pedal wasn’t pressed; simply lifting the foot off the accelerator pedal, and the iX3 used regen to stop, rather than the disc brakes.
Its regen system can also be adjusted at various levels, depending on the conditions and suitability. From the writer’s experience, you can use maximum regen in the city and for slow driving, while minimum regen for faster highway driving.
So, the writer didn’t run out of battery over several days of driving the iX3 around Kuala Lumpur, which is a good thing, isn’t it? But for your information, the iX3 will take seven and a half hours for a full charge if using AC. If using fast DC charging, it supports up to 150kW, meaning 80 percent of the battery can be reached in just 32 minutes.
Should I buy it?
The EV market in Malaysia has indeed been disrupted by the presence of Tesla, offering models with a driving range of over 500km at prices below RM200,000.
So, how about the BMW iX3? The M Sport Inspiring variant starts at RM307,160, while the M Sport Impressive variant that we tested is priced at RM328,160.
In the writer’s opinion, true car enthusiasts don’t mind all that, especially BMW enthusiasts. The iX3 is suitable for BMW owners who want EV technology after having a 5-Series or X3 at home.
The iX3 will be a practical EV for urban use, while maintaining a sporty image and appeal to “petrolheads”. In fact, it doesn’t immediately look like an EV at first glance, if that’s what you prefer.
