July 5, 2017 – The BMW X3 was the car that launched the mid-size SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) segment in 2003. Since then, BMW has recorded more than 1.5 million new registrations of the X3 across the two model generations so far. And now the new BMW X3 is set to write the next chapter in this success story with an even more striking, dynamic design language, powerful yet efficient drive systems and luxurious appointments. Like all members of the successful X family, it combines standout driving qualities on any terrain with unrestricted everyday usability.
The third generation of the BMW X3 follows in its predecessors’ tyre tracks by combining rugged off-road looks with a sporting presence. Its familiar proportions, including very short front and rear overhangs, shine the spotlight on the perfect 50:50 distribution of weight between the front and rear axle. The potent dynamic intent of the new BMW X3 is highlighted by a chunky kidney grille and foglamps featuring a hexagonal design for the first time on a BMW X model. At the rear, the light clusters (whose three-dimensional look in optional full-LED guise give them considerable visual impact), markedly downward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust tailpipes bring matters to a suitably muscular conclusion.
The xLine, M Sport and Luxury Line trim variants (the latter is a new addition to the line-up) and the range of BMW Individual items enable the appearance of the BMW X3 to be adapted even more precisely to the customer’s personal tastes. In addition to the standard 18-inch light-alloy wheels, customers can dip into the options list for wheel/tyre combinations in sizes up to 21-inch. Another new equipment item is the optional BMW Display Key, which not only locks and unlocks the car by radio remote control, but also shows a variety of status information on the car and serves as the control unit for the optional auxiliary heating, for example.
The BMW engineers have employed far-reaching chassis modifications to significantly improve the driving dynamics, directional stability and steering feel of the new BMW X3. The car that emerges is even sportier than its predecessor, yet avoids compromising on ride comfort. Chassis options include M Sport suspension, Dynamic Damper Control, M Sport brakes and variable sport steering.
Three petrol units will be available from launch for the new BMW X3. The 360 hp BMW X3 M40i gives the X3 range its first M Performance Automobile and is joined by a second petrol model in the shape of the BMW X3 xDrive30i producing 252 hp. The BMW X3 20i with 184 hp and choice of all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive will follow shortly after the launch of the new X3. All the engine variants will team up as standard with an optimised version of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The rigorously applied BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy for the new BMW X3 includes both fuel-economy-optimising powertrains and the extensive application of intelligent lightweight design measures, making the new BMW X3 is up to 55 kilograms lighter than its predecessor.
When it comes to the BMW Personal CoPilot features focusing on driver assistance and (semi-) automated driving, the new BMW X3 can be specified as an option with the latest generation of Active Cruise Control and the Driving Assistant Plus safety package, including Steering and lane control assistant, Lane Change Assistant and Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection.
The second pillar of BMW ConnectedDrive – alongside the BMW Personal CoPilot driver assistance systems – is formed by BMW ConnectedDrive Services and apps. As a result, the new BMW X3 now also features BMW Connected.
Gesture control allows various navigation and infotainment system functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures. And the optional Head-Up Display enables the most important driving-related information to be projected directly into the driver’s field of vision.