New BMW iX vs new BMW iX3: practicality
The BMW iX takes a clean-sheet approach to facing the future, but does that make it a better electric SUV than the less radical iX3?...
Space and practicality
Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot
Neither of our contenders will leave you wanting when it comes to interior space. Even if you’re more than six feet tall, you’ll find more than enough head and leg room up front. However, the BMW iX is the more spacious car, and feels it, thanks to its low-slung dashboard and floating centre console.
Take a seat in the rear and it’s much the same story. The BMW iX3 offers more than enough space for a pair of six-footers, but the iX is that bit more generous on width, leg and head room. It also makes life comfier for middle seat passengers; unlike the iX3’s, the iX’s floor is entirely flat, so there’s no awkward hump to straddle.
It’s worth noting that the plentiful head room in both cars comes despite their panoramic sunroofs; you get one as standard in the iX3 in M Sport Pro guise, or optionally as part of the £3500 Sky Lounge Pack in the iX.
Practicality-wise, both cars have electric tailgates and handy boot-mounted levers for folding down their 40/20/40 split rear seats, which lie completely flat and flush with the boot floor when folded. This means it’s easy to slide large items into the back of either car.
Officially, the iX3 has a slightly bigger boot. But in the real world, both cars can swallow eight carryon suitcases beneath their load covers. Neither has an adjustable boot floor, but you do get a handy storage area under the main compartment of each boot – ideal for stashing charging cables.
Boot space
BMW iX
Boot 500-1750 litres Suitcases 8
BMW iX3
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