Rival: 2026 BMW iX3 reviews are impressive... R2 has its work cut out

[Just Passing By]

I guess the explanation is because this is a Rivian forum, but I’m surprised by how many people don’t think the BMW iX3 is the better value at these prices.

My iX3 configuration comes out to $68K with destination charges included.

My R2 configuration comes out to $61K before destination, so perhaps $63K with destination.

For about $5K more, I get 434 miles of epa range and 400kw charging speeds. Thats 33% more range and 2x max charging speeds.

Reasonable observation, the range and fast charge is very alluring, but ironically I would want that for extended distance off-road use, so I also want good ground clearance/approach/departure angles. The BMW/Volvo alternatives would be a more risky proposition for ground clearance. It seems I can't have both, so I'll default to the R2 and see how it goes.

I'm also not a fan of the BMW interior and exterior styling which just seems like they are trying to hard to be edgy or different to me. Conversely I like the Volvo styling, so if I had to compromise on the off road capability, then that would probably be my fallback subject to where US pricing lands.

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[windblowlc]

I'm also surprised, but only by how many people willing to pay more $$ for much less performance and tiresome looks of the IX3. For me performance and looks trump range and DC charging speed every time. I can count a handful of times per year I would need that extra 100 mile of range from the IX3, but I can use the R2's extra 200 HP and not have to look at that awful steering wheel and crooked screen. The R2 interior is classic, so clean and so much in the moment. I would get the R2 even if it costs more vs the IX3.

 

[DuoRivian]

I'm also surprised, but only by how many people willing to pay more $$ for much less performance and tiresome looks of the IX3. For me performance and looks trump range and DC charging speed every time. I can count a handful of times per year I would need that extra 100 mile of range from the IX3, but I can use the R2's extra 200 HP and not have to look at that awful steering wheel and crooked screen. The R2 interior is classic, so clean and so much in the moment. I would get the R2 even if it costs more vs the IX3.

I agree with you on iX3 but the EX60 is compelling - less polarized looks, comparable spec (maybe better stereo) and close in price to premium.

 

[Sportstick]

I agree with you on iX3 but the EX60 is compelling - less polarized looks, comparable spec (maybe better stereo) and close in price to premium.

I was willing to consider both R2 and EX60 despite their designs, not because. For my first EV, they seemed to have attributes of interest. However iX3 caught my eye as the most interesting and, aside from its technical attributes, the interior was also the most interesting and progressive. The exterior seemed a clear and well-done descendant of my current 2024 X3. Polarizing design is a good thing for all brands as it strongly links a certain mindset buyer to a particular design aesthetic for a first choice "want". Being everyone's "it's ok" second choice isn't a great strategy when something else with more "pull" comes along for a sub-group. R2 and EX60 seem ordinary and "born old" to me, which is about as subjective as one can get. The buyers will sort themselves out and no one should be surprised about the diversity of opinions, especially in this country.

 

[MaskedRacerX]

I'm also surprised, but only by how many people willing to pay more $$ for much less performance and tiresome looks of the IX3. For me performance and looks trump range and DC charging speed every time.

I think you already partially answered this: "for you", i.e., for many, range + charging speed is the desired peak spec in an EV.

Also, the performance in this mid/mid-upper market isn't a big thing for many folks - especially when the iX3 x50 is already very quick (and as I suggested in another post, BMW sandbagging + launch vs. Rivian + on-a-good-day may wind up being way closer than in looks on paper) and in terms of actual driving, the iX3 i supposed to be a stellar experience (i.e., there's a lot more than just 0-60 ...)

For folks who are that into the performance, they'll wait for the M60 version of the iX3 anyway (so they're not really cross shopping the two).

I think this comparison in abstract is "mid-model EVs that do a lot of things really well", but it comes down to a lot of particulars, many subjective, so the paying more for a vehicle that goes 0-60 0.5s slower just isn't that critical for many.

Looks, eh, so subjective, the R2 looks fantastic, the iX3 is brand new design, a touch quirky, but has some fantastic details, heck, I thought our iX was just super weird, but ultimately that just kind of faded away and it wound up being one of my fave vehicles (out of about 20 in the last couple of decades).

 

[windblowlc]

I think you already partially answered this: "for you", i.e., for many, range + charging speed is the desired peak spec in an EV.

Also, the performance in this mid/mid-upper market isn't a big thing for many folks - especially when the iX3 x50 is already very quick (and as I suggested in another post, BMW sandbagging + launch vs. Rivian + on-a-good-day may wind up being way closer than in looks on paper) and in terms of actual driving, the iX3 i supposed to be a stellar experience (i.e., there's a lot more than just 0-60 ...)

For folks who are that into the performance, they'll wait for the M60 version of the iX3 anyway (so they're not really cross shopping the two).

I think this comparison in abstract is "mid-model EVs that do a lot of things really well", but it comes down to a lot of particulars, many subjective, so the paying more for a vehicle that goes 0-60 0.5s slower just isn't that critical for many.

Looks, eh, so subjective, the R2 looks fantastic, the iX3 is brand new design, a touch quirky, but has some fantastic details, heck, I thought our iX was just super weird, but ultimately that just kind of faded away and it wound up being one of my fave vehicles (out of about 20 in the last couple of decades).

Of course there's so much more than just 0-60 time. On-road and off-road handling, reviewers have said great things about their R2 initial first drives. For people who chase performance, by the time the M60 comes out, the R2 would have upped the performance to the Tri motor already. Sandbagging or not, there's no comparison in performance between IX3 vs R2. Aside from performance and handling, EVs are also defined by software and Rivian's software stack is far ahead of BMW, including Autonomy+. Looking further ahead, RJ has previously said in an interview that Rivian is going to get there on range and charging speed, it's just a matter of time. I don't expect Rivian to stay at 400V/220KW beyond Gen 2 on the R1. When that happens, R2 will get there as well. I suspect it's more likely to happen sooner rather than later.

My one final thought here, a quirky vehicle (someone mentioned polarizing) is not progressive IMO. I'm all for new look, just not for the sake of making itself looking different.

 

[Apprunner]

Of course there's so much more than just 0-60 time. On-road and off-road handling, reviewers have said great things about their R2 initial first drives. For people who chase performance, by the time the M60 comes out, the R2 would have upped the performance to the Tri motor already. Sandbagging or not, there's no comparison in performance between IX3 vs R2. Aside from performance and handling, EVs are also defined by software and Rivian's software stack is far ahead of BMW, including Autonomy+. Looking further ahead, RJ has previously said in an interview that Rivian is going to get there on range and charging speed, it's just a matter of time. I don't expect Rivian to stay at 400V/220KW beyond Gen 2 on the R1. When that happens, R2 will get there as well. I suspect it's more likely to happen sooner rather than later.

My one final thought here, a quirky vehicle (someone mentioned polarizing) is not progressive IMO. I'm all for new look, just not for the sake of making itself looking different.

Agree. There is a large difference between mid 4s car and mid 3s car in 0-60. I know as my Kia EV6 does it in mid 4s and my Tesla in standard mode does it in mid 3s. Its a much bigger difference in feel when you get to the high 2s range (My Tesla in Insane mode).

I'm hoping they release a high capacity option when the tri-motor comes out but willing to live with the less range and charging speed for more zip and off road capability. Also, R2 software blows any BMW out of the water. I really HATED the iX software (had to road trip the car). Those steering knobs look like next gen UI improvements.

 

[Sportstick]

Of course there's so much more than just 0-60 time. On-road and off-road handling, reviewers have said great things about their R2 initial first drives. For people who chase performance, by the time the M60 comes out, the R2 would have upped the performance to the Tri motor already. Sandbagging or not, there's no comparison in performance between IX3 vs R2. Aside from performance and handling, EVs are also defined by software and Rivian's software stack is far ahead of BMW, including Autonomy+. Looking further ahead, RJ has previously said in an interview that Rivian is going to get there on range and charging speed, it's just a matter of time. I don't expect Rivian to stay at 400V/220KW beyond Gen 2 on the R1. When that happens, R2 will get there as well. I suspect it's more likely to happen sooner rather than later.

My one final thought here, a quirky vehicle (someone mentioned polarizing) is not progressive IMO. I'm all for new look, just not for the sake of making itself looking different.

All personal opinions respected, of course, but two items to take further. I disagee that EVs are inherently defined by software. For some who may share my attitude, if my current X3 could be magically changed to an EV powertrain, I'd keep it as is. I don't care about the software stacked, laid out, spread around, or whatever else one does with software. I certainly make sure to skip over and not order any autonomous features. The car already has navigation. My music comes via Sirius satellite and my phone has no other need to connect and I don't need any other apps. I don't disagree that some others share your perspective, but it's certainly not universal among all EV buyers.

Whether a design is "progressive" or not would also be subjective. The iX3 is certainly not regressive, evoking designs of the past except for a minor nod to the Hofmeister Kink. It's not a current design lookalike to the G45 current generation X3, so doing diagnosis by exclusion, it represents progress to a new design. They should call it the New Class! Conversely, those buying an R2 are buying a reduced size lookalike version of something that has been around for years. From a distance, most typical "civilians" would likely have trouble telling an R2 from an R1. Designs and aesthetics evolve over time for the sake of interest, improvement, efficiency, pleasing the mind...we are inherently wired to notice novelty, and then each can determine if it's for better or worse. I think iX3 is better; you apparently feel the opposite. That's why Baskin-Robbins has 31 flavors!

EDIT: As to performance, any of these vehicles will get me to Costco or the next red light plenty fast enough. As to suspension/steering performance, even MB and Audi can't keep up with BMW. R2 may be great for off-road, but one would not compare an R2 to an iX3 on suspension attributes for normal daily driving street use, or even an occasional run on a track. Two different types of vehicles completely in that arena.

 

[MaskedRacerX]

Rivian's software stack is far ahead of BMW, including Autonomy+.

Eh, not sure about "far ahead", the ADAS in our '24 iX is pretty stellar, and I'm comparing that to my exposure to Rivian (though not an owner) and Telsa (no longer an owner), and my general understanding of the underlying tech (which is not trivial). And we haven't even had a deep dive inot the new BMW tech yet, the tech that's actually shipping as I write this.

And there's plenty of comparison for those of us who have owned a lot of high performance vehicles, have 100s of hours of track time (so enjoy all driving dynamics, not jus the right pedal ...), yeah, it's a bit quicker scooting around town. Great, and trust me, I get that, but again, it's not, for many, that big of a deal, when most performance-y EVs area already quicker than 98% of the ICE vehicles on the road.

And I'd take a wager than the M60 will land way before the tri-motor R2, and that's not even the "hottest" flavor they're talking about. And it's the same with the charging 400/800v, etc.

Look, you seem to be in some kind of defensive mode over the R2, you asked, "I don't get my anyone would choose the iX3", I simply said well, consider XYZ, and then you attempted to refute those points (some of which were clearly subjective).

The R2 looks great and I really dig on Rivian, that's why I had an R1S on pre-order (didn't work out) and why I've had an R2 on reserve since about 10 minutes after the March '24 reveal. You don't have to convince me. But I also really dig on what BMW is doing, have had an amazing experience with iX (which is our 1st BMW EV, but 4th BMW), I've owned all sorts of vehicles all over the marketspace, this too often becomes too much "I can't like X if I already like Y". In my case, I can, but YMMV

 

[macb00kemdanno]

I'm also surprised, but only by how many people willing to pay more $$ for much less performance and tiresome looks of the IX3. For me performance and looks trump range and DC charging speed every time. I can count a handful of times per year I would need that extra 100 mile of range from the IX3, but I can use the R2's extra 200 HP and not have to look at that awful steering wheel and crooked screen. The R2 interior is classic, so clean and so much in the moment. I would get the R2 even if it costs more vs the IX3.

- For starters, for better or worse, one is a BMW, one isn’t.
- One has dealerships and service centers readily available all over, while one is “getting there”
- How many people are clamoring to rip 0-60 in less than four seconds on a daily basis in a 5,000+ pound crossover?
-Which company has a proven track record and isn’t tiptoeing on the possibility of becoming the next automotive startup bust?

Point being, let’s not let our affinity for Rivian cloud the realities of the world. Some people are going to choose the BMW — period — because it’s a BMW.

I don’t presume to assume that my preferences or likes somehow diminish what others want in an EV. For some, the 800V charging, 400+ mile range, and BMW brand is enough to sway them. And that’s fine.

In the end, my preference lays with the R2 because I prefer the styling inside and out, I have a Rivian service center near me, and I appreciate this software-centered philosophy of Rivian.

I’m glad that there’s plenty of choice in the mid-sized EV crossover market now, because otherwise everyone would be driving around in Model Ys — and that’s a boring existence.

 

[MaskedRacerX]

@macb00kemdanno

Well said, and not because it's "pro / con" one brand or another, but because it's a realistic, balanced take on the discussion.

Hell, just to pivot the other direction, I'll toss out a completely subjective, don't-ask-me-why hot take on another vehicle that's been part of these discussions, the Volvo EX60.

I don't want to drive a Volvo, I don't care how good it is

 

[MaskedRacerX]

[...] the Hofmeister Kink

A lot of folks have this, I do, instead of fighting it, I just lean into it and enjoy. Though the very specialized, umm, "service industry" that caters to this is painfully expensive ...

 

[mellowthecat]

a lot of people on different forums comparing these two cars. The more they try and compare them, the more I realize BMW and Rivian are not really competitors. Toyobaru has a lot more in common with the R2.

Especially in other forums, I think many feel threatened by the iX3 and the range it has. In the R2 sub, someone posted a whole write up on why the R2 is better than the iX3. Comparing costs and features. People are basically rabid since the launch of the configurator.

The BMW hit the market with a lot of influencer fanfare, and I think a lot of Rivian fans have a lot tied into the R2, emotionally and financially with the future of the company at stake.

the Volvo will be the same way as the BMW when the influencers get ahold of it. R2 is not the hot girl at the party anymore, but R2 also shouldn’t be trying to compete with luxury brands. It’s an adventure car. Go be a better Toyobaru

 

[iansriv]

I dont know that one car has to be better than another to be good. Why cant the BMW be a good/great car as well as the R2. I've owned a few BMWs. They are good cars. I just prefer American made these days and Rivian fits the bill. There are so many choices out there these days that a car purchase has become subjective.

 

[rbdavis808]

a lot of people on different forums comparing these two cars. The more they try and compare them, the more I realize BMW and Rivian are not really competitors. Toyobaru has a lot more in common with the R2.

Exactamundo. At the risk of offending everyone who's contributed to this incredibly exhaustive thread (and I've never done that before ), I think R2 and iX3, other than both being EVs with a slight pricing overlap in the $60-65K range, have just about nothing in common. They look radically different, and have very different primary appeals and functionalities. You can love one, both or even neither, but trying to ascertain which is better for anyone but you personally will not be particularly productive.

Do I wish R2 had better charging, sure! I also wish iX3 looked like R2 inside and out instead of like iX3. And I wish I could buy both for $30K each. None of these things are going to happen.

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