It was back in 2003 that BMW founded the new mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of the X3. That means the BMW X3 has been a paragon of sporty dynamics, premium ambience and robust agility, coupled with low fuel consumption and emissions, for over 10 years now – racking up sales figures of more than one million units in the process. The second generation of the successful BMW X3 has made a compelling case for itself since its introduction in 2010, boasting the best interior and boot measurements and the greatest versatility in its class.
I had the chance to drive the 1st generation X3 for a couple of weeks when I was given one as a courtesy car and honestly I felt that the X3 lacked a lot. It felt really empty inside and it has looks only a mother would love. Now, with the face lifted version, the rear looks so much nicer with the new design lights (kinda look like someone with small eye slits) and the new F30 looking headlights, the X3 looks absolutely gorgeous.
And now the new BMW X3 (fuel consumption combined: 8.3–4.7* l/100 km [34.0–60.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 193–124* g/km) is set to build inexorably on its segment leadership. A pair of new-generation diesel engines, producing more power but once again burning less fuel, serve to improve dynamic performance and reduce pollutant emissions. The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 reveal stylistic revisions and also add further depth to the car’s practicality with detail solutions responding to customer requirements.
Dynamic appearance and exclusive ambience.
The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – shining an even brighter spotlight on signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality and exclusivity also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system in high-gloss black-panel look, and new cupholders with a sliding cover for the centre console underline the car’s premium appearance. New exterior colours, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualisation. The new xLine equipment package, meanwhile, allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate and storage package (both optional) further enhance the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.
World premiere for the new 2.0-litre diesel unit with 140 kW/190 hp.
The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of four diesel and three petrol engines, with outputs ranging from 110 kW/150 hp to 230 kW/313 hp. The state-of-the-art units with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption, and all meet the EU6 exhaust gas standard. This new diesel unit produces 6hp more than the current 2.0 diesel which produces 184hp.
BMW EfficientDynamics: driving pleasure and low fuel consumption.
The trailblazing BMW EfficientDynamics package of technology brings the Auto Start Stop function, coasting function, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units to the new BMW X3, resulting in the lowest fuel consumption and emissions in the segment. In addition, fourth-generation low-rolling-resistance tyres make a significant contribution to the excellent environmental performance of the new BMW X3 by reducing CO2 emissions by 7 g/km.
BMW ConnectedDrive: driver assistance and infotainment.
The new BMW X3 advances the company’s commitment to the link-up of driver, vehicle and outside world, an area in which BMW is an undisputed leader. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the BMW X3 are the iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant, the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and preventive pedestrian protection.
Also available under the BMW ConnectedDrive umbrella are Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI), Concierge Services and the Intelligent Emergency Call function. A range of apps enable the use of Facebook and Twitter, AUPEO! internet radio and music platforms like Napster and Deezer.
