A BMW iX3 Charged For Just 15 Minutes. Here's How Far It Drove On The Highway

A recent highway test of the new BMW iX3 has turned heads: after a quick 15-minute charge, the electric SUV covered a distance that puts many petrol cars to shame. While the exact figure wasn’t disclosed, the test shows that the iX3 can now comfortably tackle long road trips with minimal stops. This is largely thanks to its 400‑kW charging capability, which slashes waiting time at high-powered stations.

The iX3 sits in the premium mid‑size electric SUV segment, a space that is heating up in Saudi Arabia. Shoppers in the Kingdom already have strong options like the Tesla Model Y, the Audi Q6 e‑tron, and the Mercedes EQB. However, the new iX3’s over‑400‑mile EPA range gives it a clear edge for those who frequently drive between cities, such as Jeddah and Riyadh.

For Saudi buyers, the key watchpoint is charging infrastructure. While the iX3 can charge at up to 400 kW, few public stations in the region currently offer that speed. Owners will need to plan around existing 150‑kW or 350‑kW chargers, which still deliver a useful boost in 15 minutes but not the full potential. Also, extreme summer heat can affect battery performance, so real‑world range may vary.

Still, the iX3’s ability to regain hundreds of miles of range in a coffee‑break stop signals a turning point for electric road trips in Saudi Arabia. If BMW ensures adequate thermal management for the local climate, this could become the go‑to choice for families wanting both luxury and long‑range capability.