The new BMW X3 is the successor to a bestseller, setting the same high standards as the first generation of the BMW X3 launched in 2004. Its success had already been previously substantiated with the concept utilised for the BMW X3 xDrive35i This concept encompassed the development of all-terrain models with a clear orientation towards driving dynamics, thereby establishing the Sports Activity Vehicle category. Its exceptionally agile handling and the superior characteristics of the intelligent four-wheel drive concept xDrive have also rendered the BMW X3 a pioneer in its class and a global bestseller, the production of which ended after the sale of 614,824 units.The lasting popularity is also reflected in the outstanding public survey results: Twice in succession, the BMW X3 was voted both "All-terrain Car of the Year" and "Off Road Vehicle of the Year" in 2006 and 2007 respectively by readers of the magazines "Auto Bild Allrad" and "Off Road". Moreover, independent experts have bestowed several awards on the vehicle for outstanding safety, customer satisfaction, reliability and stable value, including top rankings in the breakdown statistics published by the Allgemeine Deutsche Automobilclub (ADAC).
The new BMW X3: More comfortable than ever, benchmark in agility, driving dynamics, efficiency and variability within the competitive environment.
Compared with the new BMW X3 is characterised by a noticeable increase in motoring comfort and interior space. Exterior length has increased by 83 mm to 4,648 mm, with width increasing by 28 mm to 1,881 mm and height by 12 mm to 1,661 mm. With these dimensions, it is positioned precisely between the BMW X5 and the BMW X3 xDrive35i In a class that has meanwhile also been discovered by other premium car builders, the BMW X3 xDrive35i remains the role model for driving dynamics, agility and efficiency. Besides having the most generous amount of space and the highest level of variability, it also possesses the most innovative equipment features.
The Design: Dynamic lines, urban elegance.
The body design of the new BMW X3 conveys urban elegance and robust agility. The combination of a flat front end and a high rear end creates, when viewed from the side, a dynamically formed wedge shape, indicating the vehicle's sporting characteristics. Distinctive lines structure the beautifully modelled surfaces, giving the bodywork the appearance of a concisely modelled sculpture. The black protective trim on the lower edge of the body of the new BMW X3 sports a distinctively discreet design.
With the upright BMW kidney grille, large headlight assembly, powerfullooking front apron and a bonnet structured by six contour lines running towards the kidney grille, the front end of the new BMW X3 signalises self-assured presence. In conjunction with the dual round headlights, fog lamps positioned far to the outside form the light source arrangement typical of BMW models. The upper edge of the headlight assembly sports an accentuating chrome trim, creating the focussed look so typical of BMW vehicles. In conjunction with the optional Xenon headlights, the vehicle features daytime running lights that function by means of bright white LED light rings.
The side view of the new BMW X3 is also characterised by a unique interpretation of typical BMW X design features. Powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and the dashboard accentuate the robust character of the Sports Activity Vehicle. The dynamiclooking silhouette is additionally emphasised by three characteristic lines. The brand-typical contour line at door handle level rises steeply at first within the front wheel arch area , then makes a gentle swing to the rear end. Two less pronounced lines follow the course of the line above the wheel arches.
The rear end is characterised by horizontal lines, underlining the new BMW X3's robust character. Distinctive lines and expressively modelled surfaces create attractive light and shadow effects. The taillights, which are located far to the outside, have a distinctive T shape that is characteristic of the BMW X3. Combined with optional Xenon headlights, LED light banks reflect the typical BMW night design.
Interior: Premium ambience, intelligent functionality.
A generous and variably utilisable spatial concept, high-grade materials and a characteristic three-dimensional surface design provide the interior of the new BMW X3 with a modern, premium ambience and intelligent functionality. The horizontal orientation of the instrument panel accentuates the width of the interior. In conjunction with the optional navigation system Professional and Head-up Display, the instrument panel utilises Black Panel technology already featured in the BMW X3 xDrive35i It combines state-of-the-art display technology with a classic round instrument look.
Brand-typical driver orientation is emphasised by the asymmetrically designed centre console. The raised seating position facilitates convenient entry, whilst optimising the overview of the traffic situation. The control display of the optional BMW iDrive control system is harmoniously integrated into the instrument panel. The 8.8-inch high-resolution screen of the navigation system Professional featured in the new BMW X3 is the largest on-board monitor in its segment.
The exterior colour portfolio for the new BMW X3 comprises ten colour variants, including the metallic variants Vermillon Red, Sparkling Bronze and Bluewater, which are available for this model for the very first time. Also, the colour Carbon Black metallic is exclusively available in conjunction with the M Sports Package. It is possible to design the interior according to individual preference using a combination of the interior colours black and beige with interior trims in standard matt Satin Silver and in the optional variants finely brushed aluminium, real wood Fineline Wave and real wood Fineline Siena. Seat upholsteries in the fabric/ribbon and fabric/leather combination Pearlpoint are available in two colours. The leather trim Nevada is available in five colours.
The driving experience: Perfect combination of agility and comfort.
Road performance of the BMW X3 is characterised by accurate directional stability, neutral self-steering properties, supreme traction and noticeably enhanced driving comfort compared to the predecessor model. Agility, which is unparalleled within the competitive environment, is the result of a well-balanced 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, an entirely newly developed suspension including electric power steering and the dynamically optimised intelligent four-wheel drive concept BMW xDrive. In conjunction with optional Dynamic Damper Control, it is now possible for the first time to vary the suspension setting on a BMW X3 model according to each driving style and the current situation at the push of a button using the Dynamic Drive Control function.
Intelligent four-wheel drive concept BMW xDrive: Supremacy on any terrain and even better directional stability in bends.
The new BMW X3 features permanent four-wheel drive technology xDrive as standard. The electronically controlled system ensures variable distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. The control system, which is linked to the DSC Dynamic Stability Control, counteracts any tendency to oversteer or understeer through fast and precise response. By means of innovative configuration designed to enhance driving dynamics, intelligent four-wheel drive technology optimises not only traction, but above all, handling in bends. Even during steady cornering, a higher degree of torque is transferred to the rear wheels. With optional Performance Control, the vehicle's agile handling can be enhanced even further. Targeted braking of the rear wheel nearest the inside of the bend coupled with a simultaneous increase in engine output ensures particularly spontaneous and precise steering behaviour. This leads to enhanced dynamics in bends as well as best possible traction.
The new BMW X3 also features completely redeveloped suspension technology. The combination of a double-joint spring-strut axle at the front and a five-link rear axle offers in conjunction with a triple strut mount for both axles the ideal prerequisites for optimising agility and driving comfort. A sports-oriented suspension is available as an option.
Electric power steering (EPS) incorporated in a BMW X model for the first time contributes significantly towards precise handling. Furthermore, the system, whose power is generated by an electric motor, promotes the vehicle's efficiency. Its electric motor only uses energy when power steering is required. The Servotronic function ensures power assisted steering according to speed. Newly devised and optionally available Variable Sports Steering reduces the degree of steering movement necessary to turn the front wheels. As a result, parking and cornering becomes simple and safe as less steering effort is required. In contrast, the steering precision characteristic of BMW is guaranteed at high speeds. Each demand-controlled steering ratio is created in this system by means of a variable rack and pinion setup.
The highly efficient braking system featuring large, internally ventilated discs at the front and rear as well as DSC ensure the highest degree of active safety. The functional range of DSC includes, inter alia, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X) and Hill Descent Control for controlled downhill driving. The BMW X3 xDrive20d is fitted as standard with 17-inch light alloys, and the BMW X3 xDrive35i with 18-inch light alloys.
Individual suspension settings: Made-to-measure sportiness and comfort.
A further option for the new BMW X3 is Dynamic Damper Control. The electronically controlled dampers adapt to road surface conditions and the driver's style of driving. The driver is able to influence the characteristic map of the damper control by means of the Dynamic Control system. This function, which is available for a BMW X model for the first time, enables the driver to choose between the "NORMAL", "SPORT" and "SPORT+" modes using a button on the centre console. Apart from damper behaviour, accelerator pedal progression, engine response, the characteristic map of the power steering, DSC response thresholds and, depending on options, the gearshift dynamics of the automatic transmission are influenced. All factors are combined into a coherent overall setup.
The powertrain: Fascinating power, convincing efficiency.
There will be a choice of two highly modern power units for the new BMW X3 when it is launched onto the market. Both versions are leaders in the segment. The new BMW X3 xDrive20d convinces with the lowest fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels in its class, whilst the new BMW X3 xDrive35i fascinates with by far the sportiest driving performance, in relation to which remarkably low fuel consumption is achieved. Likewise unique within the competitive environment is the eight-speed automatic transmission available as standard for the top-of-the-range model and as an option for the diesel variant. Furthermore, the new BMW X3 features the Auto Start Stop function in conjunction with a six-cylinder engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission for the first time.
Exemplary efficiency: The new BMW X3 xDrive20d.
The new BMW X3 xDrive20d now offers better performance and higher efficiency than any of its comparable rivals. It is powered by a 2-litre, fourcylinder turbocharged diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct injection. It mobilises a maximum output of 135 kW/184 bhp at 4,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The generated pulling power permits acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The BMW X3 xDrive20d sets a new benchmark in efficiency in its vehicle segment with an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle, resulting in a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a CO2 emission level of 149 grams per kilometre. The BMW X3 xDrive20d with automatic transmission achieves identical acceleration, top speed and fuel consumption levels. CO2 emission level is 147 grams per kilometre, making it the best in the segment.
The efficiency characteristics of the four-cylinder diesel engine are optimised through innovative vibration damping technology. By means of the so-called centrifugal-force pendulum, predominantly within the lower engine speed range, damping capacity of the two-mass flywheel is noticeably increased. This unique technology enables the driver to change to the next highest gear significantly earlier. Comfortable motoring at low engine speeds lowers fuel consumption, whilst mechanical strain on the powertrain is reduced along with vibration.
Top athlete in the segment: The new BMW X3 xDrive35i.
Spontaneous response, high-revving characteristics, outstanding running smoothness and an efficiency that is unique in this performance class characterise the power unit featured in the BMW X3 xDrive35i. With BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, direct petrol injection and variable valve control VALVETRONIC, the new engine possesses the qualities that are characteristic of a BMW straight six-cylinder power unit. The 3-litre engine generates a maximum output of 225 kW/306 bhp at 5,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm, which is available between 1,200 and 5,000 rpm. This engine enables the BMW X3 xDrive35i to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. Top speed is 245 km/h. The BMW X3 xDrive35i offers not only the sportiest performance, but also the lowest fuel consumption and emission levels within the competitive environment. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 8.8 litres/100 km and CO2 emission level is 204 grams per kilometre.
BMW EfficientDynamics in the new BMW X3: Premiere for Auto Start Stop function in conjunction with automatic transmission.
The new BMW X3 xDrive35i is equipped as standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This option, which is unmatched within the competitive environment, is available for the BMW X3 xDrive20d as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gear box. As an option, the new BMW X3 xDrive35i comes with a sports automatic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel.
The automatic transmission is combined for the first time with an Auto Start Stop function. When stopping at road junctions or in a traffic jam, the engine is automatically switched off. As soon as the driver takes his or her foot off the brake pedal, the engine restarts. If the Auto Hold function is activated, brief pressure on the accelerator is sufficient. The Auto Start Stop function is also standard in the BMW X3 xDrive20d with manual transmission. The car is additionally equipped with a gearshift indicator. Furthermore, the efficiency of all model variants is increased, inter alia, through brake energy regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, on-demand control of ancillary components, rear axle with optimised warm-up behaviour, intelligent lightweight construction, optimised aerodynamics and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.
Body and Safety: Variable space, consistent protection.
With outstanding capabilities in the most diverse disciplines, the new BMW X3 puts on a convincing performance as an all-round talent. Powerful and efficient engines, increased agility with optimised comfort and four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive with its supreme off-road characteristics facilitate uncompromising driving pleasure. Moreover, the new BMW X3's versatility is expressed not only in terms of road performance, but also in the utilisation of the available interior space. No other vehicle in the segment offers a more generous amount of space, and storage volume variability is unrivalled within the competitive environment.
With increased exterior dimensions compared with the predecessor model, a wheel base widened by 15 mm to 2,810 mm and a track width increased by 92 mm, ideal prerequisites for optimised spatial comfort and high transport capacities have been created. Both driver and front seat passenger profit from an increased interior width, which also offers outstanding comfort to rear seat passengers on three seats over long distances with significantly more leg and elbow room. Both at the front and at the back, the new BMW X3 has a multitude of large storage spaces and shelves. Large side pockets in the door panels provide space for 1.5-litre bottles at the front and 1-litre bottles at the back, with cupholders on the centre console rounding off the intelligent storage concept.
