Launch of the New BMW X3

Following the phenomenal global and Middle East success of the BMW X5
Sports Activity Vehicle three years ago, BMW has announced plans to
expand its X-family by launching the dynamic and equally versatile BMW
X3 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September this year. The X3 will make
its debut into the Middle East market in early 2004. The new BMW X3
combines the outstanding agility of a typical BMW with the wide range
of practical features offered by a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The X3
is the first premium model in the SAV segment beneath the X5. "The
BMW X5 was an instant trendsetter and has enjoyed unprecedented success
here in the region. Since its launch three years ago we have delivered
6032 vehicles to our customer in the Middle East," said Robert
Bailey-McEwan, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East. The BMW X3
combines the characteristic proportions of a Sports Activity Vehicle
with both classic and innovative BMW design features. The modern design
language with convex and concave surfaces gives the X3 a youthful and
fresh look. BMW's 3.0-litre straight-six gasoline and diesel power
units ensure dynamic performance. Delivering 231 bhp, the agile X3
3.0i reaches a top speed of up to 210km/h and a Sports Package will be
also available with a high-speed set-up providing a top speed of
224km/h. A special highlight of the BMW X3 is the all-new intelligent
xDrive all-wheel-drive technology allowing adjustable and fully
variable 100% distribution of power from the rear to the front of the
vehicle - the system immediately recognises any need for change in
power distribution and responds quickly to ensure that the wheels don't
loose their grip. As a result, the X3 is able to feed optimum torque
to the respective axle at any time during dynamic cornering,
significantly minimizing both under - and oversteer in the process,
adding a major safety factor to the performance of the car. On the
road, xDrive offers a significantly higher standard of agility, driving
pleasure and safety all in one. xDrive also ensures better grip and
traction on slippery or rough terrain. This superior versatility of
the new BMW X3 is also evident in the interior and wide range of
equipment making this the ideal BMW for the active, versatile
individual. The new SAV enjoys a modern and spacious interior, the
typical elegant and aesthetic BMW looks are combined with a wide range
of sporty and practical details. "The expansion of our X-family
with this new model series promises exciting times; the car is superb
in design, performance, safety and comfort and we look forward to an
even bigger share of the 4x4 market," added Bailey-McEwan. - Ends -