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BMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are Coming

Better styling, new technology and a very solid chassis powered by the latest TwinPower Turbo engines - you could say that BMW ticked all the boxes with the brand new X3 and X5. The sales certainly suggest this, but both are lacking in one department, and that is plug-in hybrid powertrains.
BMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are Coming 5 photos
Photo: BMW
BMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are ComingBMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are ComingBMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are ComingBMW X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrids Are Coming
The ability to drive into congested cities on electric power alone is sought after by many premium car buyers, and BMW is facing far more competitors than when it came up with the X5 ActiveHybrid.

We've got about a dozen electric models on the market, like ranging from the Hyundai Kona to the Jaguar I-Pace. BMW counter these with a bespoke model called the iX3, but more mainstream buyers are probably going to be more interested in the X3 xDrive30e and X5 xDrive45e.

These are the plug-in SUV models we expect, and according to a report from BMW Blog, they will debut starting next year. This information was revealed through a statement by MW’s CEO, Mr. Harald Kruger.

The X3 xDrive30e will, of course, share its powertrain with the all-new 330e iPerformance sedan. This centers around a 2-liter turbo-four and an electric motor sandwiched between it and the gearbox. It promises a total system output of 275 horsepower and 60 km (37 miles) of pure electric range.

The X5 will feature a similar placement for the e-motor, but the ICE unit will be a larger 3-liter turbo. Thus, the xDrive45e is expected to produce 394 HP and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque, which is quite close to the quad-turbo M50d. Clearly, you're going to notice improvements in performance over the outgoing xDrive40e, as well as slightly better real-world range. Unfortunately, the model might take until early 2020 to finish developing. Hopefully, BMW sees the wisdom of offering e fully-electric flagship SUV as well. Also, what about the X7?
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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