Performance & Range

Power: The launch version, iX3 50 xDrive, produces 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque via a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup .

Also Read: BMW vs. Mercedes-Benz: Honest Comparison

Acceleration: It achieves 0–62 mph in around 4.9 seconds, with a governed top speed of 130 mph .

Battery, Range & Charging

Architecture: Built on an 800-volt Gen6 eDrive platform featuring a 108–110 kWh battery .

Range:

• WLTP: Up to 805 km (~500 miles) .
• EPA: Around 400 miles (~640 km) .

Charging: Supports ultra-fast charging up to 400 kW, enabling a gain of over 230 miles in just 10 minutes, and 10–80% charge in 21 minutes .

Bidirectional Charging: Features V2L, V2H, and V2G, plus a smart charging flap that opens automatically .

Smart Tech & Interior

“Heart of Joy”: BMW’s in-house supercomputer that manages drivetrain, steering, braking, and energy regeneration for seamless and dynamic handling .

Cockpit: The Panoramic iDrive system projects onto the windshield (A-pillar to A-pillar) with a 3D head-up display and a central matrix backlit touchscreen. Controls are haptic-lit .

Sustainability: Built with roughly one-third recycled or secondary materials, like PET fabrics and maritime plastics. The battery includes 50% recycled critical metals; manufacturing is notably energy-efficient and low in CO₂ emissions .

Why This Matters

The iX3 signals BMW’s full-electric, software-savvy future:

It reflects BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, expected to underpin up to 40 new models by 2027 .

With its blend of performance, range, and advanced tech, the new iX3 stands as a direct competitor to Tesla and premium Chinese EVs.

At a Glance

Spec/Feature Details

Power & Acceleration 463 hp, AWD, 0-62 mph in ~4.9 sec

Range ~500 miles WLTP / ~400 miles EPA

Charging 400 kW ultra-fast, 10–80% in ~21 min

Smart Tech “Heart of Joy” supercomputer, Panoramic iDrive

Charging Flexibility V2L, V2H, V2G supported

Sustainability High recycled content; eco-aware design

Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of trim variants, pricing, or comparisons with rivals!

Buying a car is one of the biggest investments many Nigerians make after building a house. But while some vehicles give you value, durability, and prestige, others drain your pocket with endless repairs, poor resale value, and disappointing performance.

Also Read: Top 10 Strongest Cars of 2025: Powerful Machines on the Road

Before you part with millions of naira, RoadKing.ng has compiled a list of 11 cars you should think twice about before buying in 2025.

1. Nissan Pathfinder (2005–2012 Models)

The Nissan Pathfinder from 2005 to 2012 is the third generation (R51) of the model, featuring a body-on-frame construction, standard V6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, and three-row seating in a body-on-frame construction.

• Why Avoid: Engine timing chain failure, poor fuel efficiency, and expensive parts.
• Verdict: Looks rugged but breaks your wallet.

2. Kia Rio (2010–2015 Models)

The Kia Rio models from 2010 to 2015 encompass a facelifted second-generation (2010-2011) with styling and feature updates and the all-new third generation (2012-2015), which offered a global model (UB) with improved fuel economy and a more contemporary design, plus a choice of sedan and hatchback body styles powered by 1.6L engines.

Why Avoid: Transmission problems and weak build quality.

• Verdict: Cheap upfront, costly long-term.

3. Toyota Sienna (2004–2008 Models)

The Toyota Sienna (2004–2008) is a spacious and versatile minivan known for its comfortable and flexible interior, available with three-row seating, and the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It was offered in various trim levels, including the base CE, the popular LE, the well-equipped XLE, and the luxurious XLE Limited.

• Why Avoid: Frequent gearbox issues and suspension headaches.
• Verdict: Popular in Nigeria, but older models are ticking time bombs.

4. Ford Explorer (2002–2010 Models)

• Why Avoid: Transmission failures and electrical faults.
• Verdict: American SUV that guzzles fuel and demands constant repairs.

5. Hyundai Elantra (2013–2017 Models)

The Hyundai Elantra 2013–2017 models represent the fifth generation of the compact sedan, offering a value-focused package with good fuel economy and a comfortable, well-controlled ride.

• Why Avoid: Engine knock issues, poor resale value.
• Verdict: Stylish outside, trouble inside.

6. Peugeot 407 (2004–2010 Models)

The Peugeot 407 is a large family car produced from 2004 to 2010, replacing the Peugeot 406 and available as a sedan, estate (SW), and coupé.

• Why Avoid: Expensive parts, electrical gremlins, weak resale value.
• Verdict: Comfortable but financially draining.

7. Jeep Cherokee (2010–2016 Models)

The 2010 model year is the final year of the Liberty model, which had been renamed to Cherokee in some markets, while the KL generation of the Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 2014, with models ranging from the 2014 to 2016 years.

• Why Avoid: Transmission recalls, high maintenance, poor fuel economy.
• Verdict: Attractive but unreliable in Nigerian conditions.

8. Honda Accord (2008–2012 Models, “End of Discussion”)

The term “Honda Accord (2008–2012 Models, ‘End of Discussion’)” refers to a specific generation of the Honda Accord, particularly in Nigerian used car markets, where it is colloquially known as the “End of Discussion” or “EOD” model.

• Why Avoid: Popular but plagued by gear failures and suspension breakdowns.
• Verdict: Notorious “mechanic’s delight” in Nigeria.

9. Volkswagen Passat (2011–2015 Models)

The 2011–2015 Volkswagen Passat primarily refers to the seventh-generation B7 model (B7, 2010-2015), a D-segment large family car available in sedan and wagon body styles with front-wheel and all-wheel drive (4motion) options.

• Why Avoid: Expensive DSG gearbox repairs, poor after-sales support in Nigeria.
• Verdict: Good drive, terrible maintenance.

10. Lexus RX 300 (1999–2003 Models)

The 1999–2003 Lexus RX 300 is the first generation of the RX luxury crossover series, known for its on-road focus, comfort, and quiet ride.

• Why Avoid: Transmission issues and outdated safety features.
• Verdict: Old luxury, modern liability.

11. Range Rover Sport (2006–2012 Models)

The Range Rover Sport produced from 2006 to 2012 is a luxury SUV, known for its powerful engine options, including V8 petrol and diesel engines, a full-time four-wheel-drive system, and a sophisticated Terrain Response system for optimized off-road capability.

• Why Avoid: Air suspension nightmares, electrical issues, poor reliability.
• Verdict: Prestige on the road, punishment in the workshop.

RoadKing’s Advice

Not every shiny car is worth your money. Before buying any used or imported vehicle, do thorough checks, confirm availability of parts, and consult trusted mechanics. Remember, a bad car will drain your hard-earned cash faster than Nigerian fuel price hikes.

In a move that has shaken the global electric vehicle (EV) industry, Toyota Motor Corporation has unveiled its most ambitious innovation, yet, a solid-state battery promising a driving range of up to 1,000 miles (1,600 km) on a single charge and recharge times as short as five minutes.

Also Read: 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid: Redefined for Efficiency, Comfort, and Value

This announcement places Toyota ahead in the race for next-generation EV batteries, challenging the dominance of Tesla, BYD, and other key players. With this development, the Japanese automaker could be on the verge of solving two of the biggest challenges holding back electric mobility: range anxiety and charging time.

What Makes Solid-State Different?

Unlike the lithium-ion batteries currently used in most EVs, solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte with a solid one. This allows:

• Higher energy density – enabling vehicles to store more power in smaller, lighter packs.
• Faster charging times – reducing recharging from hours to minutes.
• Improved safety – lowering the risk of fires or thermal runaway.

Toyota claims its latest prototypes can safely deliver unprecedented mileage while charging in a fraction of the time it takes today’s lithium-ion EVs.

Why This Is a Bombshell for the EV Market

While Tesla has focused on improving lithium-ion performance through its 4680 battery cells, Toyota has quietly invested billions into solid-state research. The result is a leapfrog innovation that could redefine market competition.

Industry analysts suggest that if Toyota can mass-produce this technology at scale and competitive cost, it would effectively eliminate the two major objections to EV adoption: long charging times and limited range.

Potential Impact

1. End of Range Anxiety: A single charge covering Lagos to Maiduguri (over 1,600 km) without refueling.
2. Rapid Charging Stations: Charging an EV in the time it takes to grab coffee could make fueling convenience equal to, or better than, petrol stations.
3. Market Shake-Up: Tesla, BYD, Hyundai, and Volkswagen will be forced to accelerate their own solid-state programs or risk losing market share.

The Questions That Remain

Despite the excitement, experts caution that scaling up solid-state production remains a challenge. Concerns include:

1. Durability: Ensuring the batteries last for hundreds of thousands of miles without degrading.
2. Cost: Making the technology affordable to mass-market buyers, not just premium luxury cars.
3. Timeline: Toyota has not given a firm release date but hinted at the late 2020s for commercial rollout.

Conclusion

The Toyota solid-state battery announcement marks a turning point in the global EV race. If the company delivers on its promise, the Camry, Corolla, or RAV4 of the future could travel across entire countries on a single charge and refuel in minutes, an evolution that would change not just the auto industry, but the entire global energy landscape.