04
December
2012
|
13:32
Europe/Amsterdam

The New BMW X3.

Summary
BMW is enlarging the highly successful X-family through the addition of a very dynamic and versatile new vehicle: The new BMW X3 combines the outstanding agility of a typical BMW with the broad range of practical benefits offered by a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The BMW X3 is indeed the first premium vehicle of its kind in the SAV segment below the X5, setting out in the market to conquer roads and tracks the world over.

The X3 combines the characteristic proportions of a Sports Activity with both classic and new BMW design elements. The modern design language with that unique interplay of concave and convex surfaces gives the X3 a youthful, fresh appearance. Numerous characteristic details, particularly the                 re-interpretation of the classic “Hofmeister kick” in the rear side windows, the newly designed double kidney grille, as well as the front and rear lights underline the unique position of this special model within the BMW range. Long wheelbase with short overhangs and the roof line slowly dropping
to the rear accentuate the dynamic character of this Sports Activity even at a standstill. Powerfully bulged wheel arches and the striking front end, finally, give this newcomer a strong character full of self-confidence, emphasizing its superior stance in every situation.


A new dimension in the BMW model range.

The basic facts and figures alone clearly show that this is an all-new, absolutely unique model series: Measuring 4,565 millimetres in length, the X3 is 87 millimetres longer than the 3 Series Touring, but almost 30 centimetres shorter than the new 5 Series Saloon. And measuring 4,667 mm from bumper to bumper, the X5, in turn, is clearly the X3’s bigger brother.

We find the same relative figures when considering the wheelbase of the X3 measuring 2,795 millimetres, versus 2,725 millimetres on the 3 Series Touring and 2,820 millimetres on the X5. In terms of height, on the other hand, the X3, measuring 1,674 millimetres, is clearly higher than both the 3 Series Touring (1429 mm) and the 5 Series Saloon (1,468 mm), only the X5 leaving an even longer shadow with its height of 1,715 mm. And with only the driver
sitting at the wheel, ground clearance of the X3 measuring exactly
201 millimetres is absolutely sufficient even on rough terrain.

Muscular straight-six power units for sporting performance.

BMW’s straight-six petrol engines famous for their supreme refinement and performance ensure dynamic motoring wherever you go. (Diesel engines will follow.) Developing maximum output of 170 kW, the agile X3 3.0i reaches a top speed in standard trim of 210 km/h, the optional high-speed set-up available with the Sports Package allowing an even higher top speed of 224 km/h. The power unit featured in the X3 2.5i, in turn, develops maximum output of 141 kW.

Revving smoothly even up to high speeds, the 3.0-litre six-cylinder also allows the driver to accelerate quickly and dynamically from 0–100 km/h in just
8,1 seconds. And despite this performance the ultra-modern 3.0-litre engine outperforms even the strict EU 4 emission standard, consuming
just 11.4 litres (100 kilometres).

At launch the X3 3.0i comes as standard with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5i variant is kitted with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while the five-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

The new xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The all-new, intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system setting a new standard in the agility of all-wheel-drive vehicles is a particular highlight of the BMW X3: xDrive allows infinite, fully variable distribution of drive forces between the front and rear axle, the system immediately recognising the need for a change
in power distribution and responding extremely quickly to such a change, in usual road-going situations generally before the wheel even loses its grip.
This enables xDrive to transmit optimum drive power to the respective axle at all times even when taking a bend at speed, significantly reducing over- and understeer in the process.

Press Contact: Edward Makwana
Tel: +27-12-522-2227
E-mail: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za