BMW iX3 Interior Shines Against Older X3M

BMW iX3 Interior: A Modern Leap Forward

BMW’s interiors have often been a bit plain in the past. But the new iX3 breaks that mold, offering a surprisingly modern and exciting cabin. While some might find the large screens a bit much, the overall design feels fresh and forward-thinking.

Quality and Feel

Let’s talk about the materials. The dashboard might not be real leather, but the soft-touch plastics and textured surfaces still feel good to the touch. The new iX3 uses a plasticky polyurethane that has a pleasant give, and there’s a nice textured finish as well. This is a big step up from some previous designs.

A Nifty, Yet Risky, Feature

One feature that stands out is the illuminated display integrated into the dash. It’s not actually a light screen, but rather images projected from a hidden display. It’s a cool effect, but it does raise questions about long-term reliability. Some drivers dislike motorized air vents, fearing they’ll eventually break. Simpler, manual controls are often more durable over time.

Center Console and Steering Wheel

The center console in the iX3 feels solid and well-built. However, some of the plastics lower down do feel a bit less premium. The steering wheel itself is nice to hold, though a specific plastic section on it looks a bit like a toy. Touch-sensitive buttons are present, and while not everyone’s favorite, they do add to the modern feel. The cover for these buttons has a flashy, almost blingy look.

A Step Back: Indicator Stalks

Interestingly, BMW seems to have taken a step back with the indicator stalks. They feel surprisingly cheap and less robust than expected, especially when compared to the overall quality of the rest of the cabin. This is a small detail, but it’s noticeable.

How the Old X3M Holds Up

Now, let’s compare this to a six-year-old X3M. It’s important to remember the age difference, but the older car still has some strong points. The M seats in the X3M are fantastic, offering great support and comfort. Even though they aren’t genuine leather, the ‘Leatherette’ material looks and feels surprisingly good.

Surprising Softness

The glove box area in the older X3M is notably soft and yielding, feeling more premium than expected. This contrasts with some of the harder plastics found in the new iX3’s lower sections. The center console in the older car, despite its age, doesn’t feel as cheap as some parts of the new model.

Physical Buttons Reign Supreme

While the iX3 embraces modern touch controls, the X3M relies on physical buttons. These are generally easier to use, especially when driving. The steering wheel buttons in the older car feel more solid and less like a toy compared to the new iX3’s touch-sensitive controls.

A Nod to Durability

The damping on the buttons and controls in the older X3M is impressive, especially considering its age. It feels slightly higher quality in this regard than the new car. This suggests that while the new iX3 is more modern, the older X3M might have an edge in long-term durability for certain controls.

Verdict: Modernity vs. Proven Quality

The new BMW iX3 offers a distinctly modern interior that feels fresh and exciting. Its large screens and integrated displays create a high-tech environment. The materials are generally good, with soft-touch surfaces and a pleasant feel. However, some minor points, like the plasticky steering wheel trim and the cheap indicator stalks, detract slightly from the overall premium experience.

The older X3M, despite its age, still impresses with its solid build quality, comfortable M seats, and the user-friendliness of its physical buttons. The ‘Leatherette’ seats and the soft glove box material give it a surprisingly luxurious feel. While its design is less cutting-edge, it feels robust and less like a collection of trendy gadgets.

For buyers prioritizing the latest technology and a sleek, futuristic cabin, the iX3 is the clear choice. If you value proven build quality, intuitive physical controls, and a slightly more understated luxury, the older X3M still holds its own remarkably well. Ultimately, the iX3 represents a significant step forward in BMW’s interior design language, but the enduring quality of the older X3M is certainly worth noting.

Source: New BMW iX3 interior vs Old X3M interior! (YouTube)