Midrand . BMW South Africa proudly announces the introduction of the BMW X3 20 Pure Design, the new entry point to the local BMW X3 line-up.

Complementing the existing BMW X3 20d, BMW X3 30e and BMW X3 M50 xDrive offerings, the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 20 Pure Design showcases the mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle’s (SAV) now-signature monolithic design paired with a cutting-edge four-cylinder petrol engine.

Positioned alongside the highly sought-after 20d variant, the 2.0-litre petrol engine (aided by 48V mild-hybrid technology) produces 148kW between 4,400 and 6,500 rpm, and 335Nm of torque from 1,500 – 4,000 rpm. The top speed is rated at 218km/h, and the average fuel consumption is 7.5 l/100km.

With a starting price of R1,107,760.40 (incl. VAT and CO₂ tax), the BMW X3 20 Pure Design is meticulously specified to deliver luxury, practicality and performance to the value-conscious customer. Building on the BMW X3 xLine specification, standard features include the BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille, 19-inch wheels with run-flat tyres, electric seats, comfort access, LED headlights, a panorama glass roof, and aluminium satin-finished accents that enhance the SAV’s confident presence.

Inside, drivers and passengers are greeted by a wraparound cabin design with electrically adjustable sport seats, black or espresso brown Veganza synthetic leather, and ambient interior lighting from the BMW Interaction Bar. Comfort, connectivity and confidence are guaranteed on every trip thanks to the curved touchscreen running BMW Operating System 9, wireless charging, Harman/Kardon surround sound, and driver assistance technologies such as Park Assist and Driving Assist. Practicality is further enhanced by a fully electrically operated tow hitch and a generous luggage capacity of 570 to 1,700 litres.

Tailored Ownership Solutions

BMW Financial Services South Africa supports the BMW X3 models with a range of tailored finance solutions and ownership packages designed to make driving a BMW as seamless as it is enjoyable. Customers benefit from flexible finance and lease options that can be customised to suit individual needs, whether prioritising lower monthly payments or shorter terms.

These solutions are complemented by BMW’s hallmark peace of mind offering, which includes a comprehensive Motorplan covering service and maintenance, a nationwide network of trustedretailers ensuring expert care wherever you are, and BMW On Call, providing 24-hour roadside assistance and support.

Together, these elements create an ownership experience that extends well beyond the showroom – ensuring that every BMW X3 customer enjoys not just premium driving, but also the confidence, convenience, and long-term value that have become synonymous with the BMW brand.

“The BMW X3 20 Pure Design is a strategic addition to our line-up: we want to ensure we have a petrol offer that is attractive alongside the dominant BMW X3 20d M Sport derivative to ensure we cater to a range of customers,” said Jean-Francois Bidard, Head of Product Management at BMW South Africa. 

“In the BMW X3 20 Pure Design, we are offering customers an opportunity to balance innovation, performance and luxury with broader accessibility. This new derivative reflects our ongoing commitment to evolving the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 portfolio, while responding to market demand in the premium segment.”

The introduction of the BMW X3 20 Pure Design marks an important step in expanding the Pure Design philosophy within South Africa. First introduced in the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé, Pure Design resonates strongly with customers who value authentic BMW styling, advanced technology, and smart specification.

The BMW X3 20 Pure Design is now available at BMW retailers nationwide. For more information or to book a test drive, visit www.bmw.co.za

Midrand. BMW Group South Africa is proud to announce the BMW X3 has been named the 2025 South African Car of the Year (COTY). This recognition highlights the strength of the locally produced BMW X3 and the ongoing momentum of the BMW Group’s premium product portfolio.

Now in its 39th year, the South African Car of the Year Awards are hosted by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) and sponsored by Old Mutual Insure. The awards recognise vehicles that set new benchmarks across key segments, with additional honours including the Jurors’ Choice Award and the Motor Enthusiast’s Choice.

Local hero

Produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn since October 2024, the BMW X3 continues to play a strategic role in both local and global markets. With both plug-in hybrid and internal combustion variants manufactured at the plant, the BMW X3 reflects BMW Group’s commitment to powertrain flexibility, production excellence and sustainable innovation. It also represents BMW Group Plant Rosslyn’s continued evolution, supported by the reintroduction of a third production shift to meet growing global demand.

In addition to the BMW X3, the BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW M5 were also recognised at this year’s Car of the Year Awards. The BMW 5 Series was named the Executive category winner, while the BMW M5 was awarded the Performance category win, Juror’s Choice
Award, as well as third place overall.

“We are honoured to see the BMW X3 recognised as this year’s Car of the Year,” said Danny Bester, Director of BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. “This award recognises the legacy of excellence built into our operations in Plant Rosslyn, as well as the dedication of our associates to world-class production.”

Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa: “Our amazing achievements in the 2025 Car of the Year competition reflect the commitment of our teams at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and across BMW Group South Africa, as well as the trust our customers place in our brand. The overall Car of the Year win for the locally-produced BMW X3, as well as strong performances by the BMW M5 and 5 Series reinforce our efforts to remain focussed on delivering quality products that resonate with South Africans and to continue striving for engineering excellence.”

BMW holds the record with the most South African Car of the Year winners, dating back to 1988.

The latest accolades join a growing list of honours for BMW Group South Africa in 2025, including:

2025 CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Buys Awards

• Luxury Car: BMW 7 Series
• Premium Midsize SUV: BMW X3

2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards

• Premium Crossover: MINI Countryman S ALL4
• Executive SUV: BMW X3 30e xDrive M Sport
• Premium SUV: BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport
• Performance Car: BMW M2 Auto
• Electric Vehicle: MINI Countryman SE ALL4

Rosslyn, Pretoria. BMW Group South Africa hosted media this week at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn for the national media launch of the new BMW X3. The event, which will have a second media rotation from 19–20 February, provided a firsthand look at the state-of-the-art facility, the production process, and the plant’s significant local footprint.

Since its start of production in October 2024, the new BMW X3 has strongly resonated with South African customers, with all available stock sold or on order. Impressively, approximately 10% of sales are for the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) BMW X3 30e xDrive model, underscoring growing interest in electrified vehicles and reinforcing BMW’s leadership in the ‘New Energy Vehicles’ segment. The BMW X3 30e xDrive has driven a remarkable 45% increase in the monthly retail rate of PHEVs, demonstrating its significant market impact.

These achievements coincide with BMW Group Plant Rosslyn’s reintroduction of a third production shift and expansion of its production line to include internal combustion engine (ICE) variants. “The new BMW X3 embodies our commitment to both innovation and customer choice,” said Ernst Kohlmeyer, General Manager of Quality at BMW Group South Africa. “Producing both PHEV and ICE models on the same line demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of Plant Rosslyn, enabling us to effectively respond to global market demands.”

Driven by worldwide demand, the new BMW X3 plays a crucial role in the BMW Group’s strategic electrification roadmap. Its production launch is timely, showcasing BMW Group Plant Rosslyn’s capabilities and commitment to delivering on allocated volume and quality in a three-shift operation, reintroduced on 8 January 2025, to meet growing demand. The plant is projected to produce an average of 110 units per shift.

“These production milestones represent the culmination of years of planning and investment in Plant Rosslyn,” added Anuk Maharaj, Project Lead for the new BMW X3 at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. “We are immensely proud to see the new BMW X3 come to life here, securing jobs and contributing to the South African economy.”

In addition to the previously launched BMW X3 30e xDrive, BMW Group Plant Rosslyn will now also produce the BMW X3 20 petrol and 20d diesel variants, (started in January 2025), followed by the BMW X3 40d xDrive in May 2025. Significantly, both the BMW X3 30e xDrive and the BMW X3 40d xDrive will be exclusively produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn for global markets. This strategic move reinforces the BMW Group’s ‘technology openness’ philosophy, offering customers powertrain options that best suit their individual needs.

This expansion follows a R4.2 billion investment in the electrification and digitisation of the production facility, demonstrating the BMW Group’s commitment to transformation, skills development, and future-proofing the Rosslyn plant within its global production network. A comprehensive plant-wide training programme ensured the workforce was fully prepared for the new model’s production.

The production of the BMW X3, including PHEV and ICE variants, secures jobs not only at BMW Group South Africa but also within its supply chain and retail network across the country. This new development reaffirms the BMW Group’s confidence in BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and its employees, positioning the plant for continued success in the evolving automotive landscape.

Boasting greater sporting appeal, visual impact and versatility than ever, the new BMW X3 assumes the mantle of talented all-rounder for everyday use, leisure activities and trips away in the brand’s core segment. A new design language gives the fourth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) for the premium midsize segment much enhanced exterior presence and an aura of dynamic grace. High-quality materials, a far more generous standard specification, advanced digitalisation and the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 9 set the tone for the premium ambience inside the progressively designed cabin. Driving pleasure, safety and long-distance comfort in the new BMW X3 also all benefit from the exceptionally precise tuning of the overall vehicle setup and a wide selection of semi-automated driving and parking systems.

The new BMW X3 heralds major improvements in efficiency and dynamic performance with its wide-ranging model line-up. The portfolio of powertrains comprises not just highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, but also a latest-generation plug-in hybrid system that enables the new BMW X3 30e xDrive to achieve an electric range of 81 – 90 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. With a hike in drive power to 293 kW and dynamic performance capabilities to eclipse its rivals, the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive M Performance model offers a compelling proposition.

The new edition’s aura of modernity and enhanced product substance provide the ideal basis for adding another chapter to the BMW X3 success story – one that first began 20 years ago. Since first establishing the SAV segment in the premium midsize class, it has been instrumental in the steady growth in popularity of the BMW X models and, indeed, became the brand’s best-selling model in 2023. The new BMW X3 will be built at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg (USA) and Plant Rosslyn (South Africa) using a production process focussed on conserving resources and circularity. 

To read more about the new BMW X3, please click https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Prices at launch:

Munich. The new BMW X3 is sportier and more versatile than ever as an all-rounder for everyday use, leisure and travel. In its fourth model generation, a new design language gives it a significantly enhanced presence. The M Sport Package and the M Sport Package Pro are available ex works for an even more elegant and sporty appearance. In addition, the distinctive profile of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) can be further customised with the BMW M Performance Parts, which will be available for the new BMW X3.

The model-specific retrofit products for the new BMW X3 are manufactured in a complex process from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), high-strength aramid or high-gloss polyurethane and are perfectly matched to one another. All add-on parts from the original BMW accessories range perfectly match the geometry and monolithic appearance of the new BMW X3.

Confident appearance and optimised aerodynamic properties: M Performance front splitter.

The exterior components, which are precisely tailored to the new BMW X3, not only set individual accents of elegant sportiness, but also fulfil functional requirements in terms of lightweight construction and aerodynamics. In the fourth model generation, an M Performance front splitter is now available for the first time for the SAV. It complements the exterior features of the M Sport Package and emphasises the striking lines of the front apron. Finished in high-gloss black, the three-part front splitter gives the SAV a decidedly distinctive appearance, especially when combined with the M Performance front ornamental grille painted in the same colour.

The exclusive M Performance side decals in Frozen Black also emphasise the sporty character of the new BMW X3 from the side. The light-, weather- and wash-resistant decal set is perfectly adapted to the vehicle's geometry and makes a clear reference to motorsport. The M Performance Carbon fuel filler cap with M Performance lettering on brushed aluminium makes an unmistakable statement at the fuel station.

The striking M Carbon exterior mirror caps and the M Performance aerial cover in aramid are further accents that lend the profile of the new BMW X3 an individual and sporty touch. The aramid-reinforced plastic is very similar to carbon fibre, but offers greater electromagnetic permeability, ensuring unrestricted reception when making calls and using the many digital services available.

Striking sportiness: M Performance rear diffuser, M Performance roof edge spoiler and M Performance tailpipe trims.

The M Performance rear diffuser is also made from this high-tech material. It gives an even more striking appearance to the rear of the car, which is already characterised by its generous surfaces, and, in conjunction with the Comfort Access system, allows the luggage compartment lid to be opened and closed without the need for physical contact. An optional M Performance rear diffuser in high-gloss black polyurethane is also available for the new BMW X3. Both versions of the rear diffuser are combined with the M Performance rear bumper trim in high-gloss black.

The M Performance roof edge spoiler is also made of polyurethane and is finished in high-gloss black. Perfectly tailored to the design of the vehicle, it not only optimises the aerodynamic properties of the new BMW X3, but also adds a particularly dynamic touch to the rear of the vehicle. If desired, it can be painted in the colour of the vehicle.

The M Performance Carbon tailpipe trims integrated into the rear apron, which are available exclusively for the M Performance model BMW X3 M50 xDrive, give the SAV an especially powerful look. They were specially designed for the two pairs of tailpipes, which unmistakably identify the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive as the most powerful model in the series and bear an embossed M logo. Their CFRP coating, stainless steel inner tailpipes and thermal decoupling of the tailpipe are a testament to the highest quality standards.

The M model badge "X3" in high-gloss black on the rear of the new BMW X3 also sets an exclusive visual accent. The M model badge "M50" is also available in a high-gloss black finish for the M Performance model.

Up to 22-inch light alloy wheels are available for an even more exclusive look.

A further highlight in the range of accessories for the new BMW X3 are the weight-optimised 22-inch M Performance light-alloy wheels. The wheel set is available exclusively in Bicolour Jetblack matt finish. The Y-spoke light alloy wheels feature polished elements on the outer rim and centre for a particularly exclusive look.

In addition, 20-inch M Performance Y-spoke wheels in Jet Black Matt are available. Additional wheel sets are ideally stowed in the M Performance tyre bags. Reinforced bag handles make it easy to transport the wheels.

Precisely honed racing flair also for the interior.

As soon as the doors are opened, the M Performance Carbon door sills unmistakably signal the new BMW X3's dynamic orientation. With their distinctive M Performance lettering, they are an individual eye-catcher. Alternatively, M aluminium door sill trims are also available for the new edition of the SAV.

Authentic motorsport flair can also be found in the footwell of the new BMW X3 with the stainless steel M Performance pedal cover. The M Performance floor mats are the ideal complement. The four-piece set features embroidered M Performance lettering, leather-look edging, contrasting stitching and a stitched-in ribbon in BMW M colours. The M Performance locking button in black anodised aluminium with a coloured M logo ensures a harmonious style in the interior down to the last detail.

The M Performance key case, with its mix of Alcantara and carbon-look leather, also conveys a subtle hint of performance passion outside the vehicle. The custom-fit case protects the car key from scratches and has convenient cut-outs for all the function buttons.

The new BMW X3 goes on sale in South Africa from the fourth quarter of 2024. The relevant BMW M Performance Parts will be available from the first quarter of 2025.

Boasting greater sporting appeal, visual impact and versatility than ever, the new BMW X3 assumes the mantle of talented all-rounder for everyday use, leisure activities and trips away in the brand’s core segment. A new design language gives the fourth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) for the premium midsize segment much enhanced exterior presence and an aura of dynamic grace. High-quality materials, a far more generous standard specification, advanced digitalisation and the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 9 set the tone for the premium ambience inside the progressively designed cabin. Driving pleasure, safety and long-distance comfort in the new BMW X3 also all benefit from the exceptionally precise tuning of the overall vehicle setup and a wide selection of semi-automated driving and parking systems.

The new BMW X3 heralds major improvements in efficiency and dynamic performance with its wide-ranging model line-up. The portfolio of powertrains comprises not just highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, but also a latest-generation plug-in hybrid system that enables the new BMW X3 30e xDrive to achieve an electric range of 81 – 90 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. With a hike in drive power to 293 kW and dynamic performance capabilities to eclipse its rivals, the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive M Performance model offers a compelling proposition.

The new edition’s aura of modernity and enhanced product substance provide the ideal basis for adding another chapter to the BMW X3 success story – one that first began 20 years ago. Since first establishing the SAV segment in the premium midsize class, it has been instrumental in the steady growth in popularity of the BMW X models and, indeed, became the brand’s best-selling model in 2023. The new BMW X3 will be built at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg (USA) and Plant Rosslyn (South Africa) using a production process focussed on conserving resources and circularity. Its South African market launch will get underway in the fourth quarter of 2024.

New design language shines the spotlight on distinctive proportions.

A new design language for the exterior helps to give the fourth generation of the BMW X3 an almost monolithic overall appearance with distinctive BMW X model proportions. Generously proportioned surfaces combine with just a few, crisply defined lines to produce a clearly structured exterior that has been reduced to the essentials. The new BMW X3 is 34 millimetres longer than its predecessor at 4,755 millimetres, while width has increased by 29 millimetres to 1,920 millimetres. Together with the 25‑millimetre drop in vehicle height to 1,660 millimetres and the wider tracks, this produces a very powerful and sporty look.

The large BMW kidney grille in the upright front end of the new BMW X3 gives off an air of assured presence. A new structure for the grille interior, comprising vertically and diagonally arranged bars, adds a fresh touch. The optional BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting forms a continuous line around each element of the grille. The daytime driving lights, side lights and turn signal indicators in the LED headlights are now all produced by L-shaped, overlapping light sources. Adaptive LED Headlights with non-dazzling matrix high beam, urban light and cornering light functions, plus blue design detailing are standard.

Bold side skirts and a roofline extending deep into the rear end are the distinguishing features of the new model’s sporty silhouette. The prominently flared wheel arches create the impression of considerable width at the rear. The flush-mounted rear window is bordered by a long roof spoiler and the adjoining side air deflectors. All model variants aside from the BMW X3 M50 xDrive come with exhaust tailpipes integrated out of sight in the rear apron. The fresh interpretation of the characteristic T-shaped graphic and a satinated horizontal bar with integral turn signal indicators help to give the rear lights a very modern appearance.

There is a choice of one solid and eight metallic shades for the exterior paintwork of the new BMW X3, including the new Dune Grey metallic finish. Models produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg will additionally be available with BMW Individual paint finishes, including two matt shimmering Frozen options, as well as over 15 BMW Individual special paint finishes.

The new BMW X3 is equipped as standard with light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in size for the BMW X3 20d and 30e xDrive models, and 20 inches for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive M Performance model. A selection of 20- and 21-inch items are also available as factory-fitted options. The optional M Sport package creates an exceptionally dynamic look with features such as 19-inch M light-alloy wheels and bespoke design cues for optimising airflow and aerodynamic balance. The M Sport package Pro builds on this content by adding, among other things, the Iconic Glow contour lighting and M Sport brakes with red-painted callipers.

Sporty premium ambience and generous amounts of space.

The cabin of the new BMW X3 blends robust SAV functionality with ample spaciousness and a premium ambience full of individual style. The BMW Curved Display, BMW Interaction Bar, steering wheels with a flat-bottomed rim and the new-look gear selector lever are the defining elements of the cockpit’s modern take on hallmark BMW driver-focused design. Other model-specific highlights include light elements in a contrasting colour in the centre console and door trims. This new design feature is located towards the front of the driver’s and front passenger doors, where it forms a border around function buttons, ventilation controllers, air vents and the robust door openers typically found on BMW X models.

The interior’s individual ambience goes hand in hand with generous amounts of space and modern versatility. Load space can be increased from 570 to a maximum 1,700 litres (BMW X3 30e xDrive: 460 – 1,600 litres). A trailer coupling that extends and retracts again electrically can be specified as an option. The maximum permitted trailer load is 2,500 kilograms, depending on the model variant.

The new BMW X3 is fitted as standard with newly designed electrically adjustable and heated sport seats upholstered in Econeer, with surfaces and cushioning made from secondary material. Veganza and BMW Individual Merino leather upholsteries are both available as an option; Veganza at no additional cost. Making its debut for a BMW model is the optional Luxury instrument panel made from recycled polyester with a high-class knitted texture.

Plug-in hybrid with significantly longer electric range.

The drive system in the BMW X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid is made up of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine partnered with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission. These join forces to generate system output of up to 220 kW.

Helped by latest-generation BMW eDrive technology and adaptive recuperation, the new BMW X3 30e xDrive achieves an electric range of 81 – 90 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. Its Combined Charging Unit enables AC charging at 11 kW as standard. The plug-in-hybrid model also comes prepared for smart charging with the Connected Home Charging option.

BMW X3 M50 xDrive with standout performance qualities.

The range-topping model, the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive, features the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine yet fitted in an M Performance model. The 3.0-litre M TwinPower Turbo unit links up with 48V mild hybrid technology. Its maximum output of 293 kW is channelled to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The BMW X3 M50 xDrive powers to 100 km/h from rest in 4.6 seconds.

This stunningly potent powertrain combines with the bespoke chassis technology to deliver a compelling blend of agility, dynamism and handling precision. M Sport suspension with variable sport steering, M Sport brakes, 20-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M Sport differential integrated into the rear axle all come as standard, along with adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. M-specific design features, the M kidney grille with horizontal bars and BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting, and the quartet of exhaust tailpipes all serve to underline the status of the BMW M model as the most powerful version of the new BMW X3.

Systematic electrification for petrol and diesel engines, eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard.

48V mild hybrid technology also endows the BMW X3 20d xDrive and the BMW X3 M50 xDrive with enhanced efficiency and rapid power delivery. 

The four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 2.0 litres in the new BMW X3 20d xDrive posts a maximum output of 145 kW. The diesel model completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds. 

All the power units link up with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission including shift paddles on the steering wheel as standard. There is also a Sport Boost function for exceptionally rapid bursts of speed in models specified with the M Sport package and in the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive. All model variants also benefit from fully variable distribution of drive power via the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system as standard.

Agility and ride comfort up their game.

All model variants of the new BMW X3 boast driving qualities offering a clearly noticeable increase in agility, cornering stability and long-distance comfort over the outgoing model. A body with lower weight but increased rigidity and the wider rear track both play a role here, as do the high-quality chassis components and control systems tuned for this specific model. Modifications to the kinematic and elastokinematic properties of the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle have increased precision when turning into corners, while the 19 per cent increase in the caster offset of the steering axle is a boon for straight-line stability. Near-actuator wheel slip limitation and the integrated braking system likewise form part of the standard package of chassis technology.

Customers looking for even more dynamic prowess can choose the optional M Sport suspension including sport steering and M Sport brakes (both standard for the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive). Adaptive suspension – also to be found on the options list – sharpens the agility of the new BMW X3 at the same time as increasing ride comfort.

Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant as standard.

The new BMW X3 offers a far more extensive range of standard and optional systems for semi-automated driving and parking. It is equipped as standard with front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Info, along with the Driving Assistant including Lane Change Warning and manual Speed Limit Assist. The Parking Assistant (also standard) incorporates features such as the Reversing Assistant and a Reversing Assist Camera.

Among the highlights on the list of optional systems are the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, as well as automatic Speed Limit Assist and route speed control when using Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function. The optional Parking Assistant Professional allows parking and general manoeuvres to be controlled from outside the car using a smartphone.

More generous standard specification for greater comfort and driving pleasure.

Besides the extra assistance systems, the far more generous standard specification compared to the outgoing model offers a wealth of other features that help boost comfort and driving pleasure in the new BMW X3. These include three-zone automatic climate control, acoustic glazing, Comfort Access, automatic tailgate operation, an electric folding mechanism for the exterior mirrors, an alarm system and BMW Live Cockpit Plus complete with the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. The new BMW X3 also comes as standard with ambient lighting featuring a Welcome and Goodbye Animation, a tray including wireless charging function for compatible smartphones, a Bluetooth interface, four USB-C ports, a 12V power socket in the centre console and another in the luggage compartment.

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional adds not only the BMW Head-Up Display, but also the Augmented View function in the control display. Also to be found on the options list are a fixed panoramic glass sunroof featuring a large transparent surface without any cross struts to break it up, steering wheel heating, sun protection glass in the rear and a pre-heating function. The new BMW X3 30e xDrive, meanwhile, comes with the BMW IconicSounds Electric as standard for special sound effects.

BMW Operating System 9, BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Digital Premium.

The new BMW X3 comes with the latest version of BMW iDrive with QuickSelect to provide intuitive, easy control. Its new home screen shows vertically arranged function icons on the same level. The QuickSelect feature allows functions to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu. The new BMW iDrive is geared squarely to touch and voice control. It is based on BMW Operating System 9, which also paves the way for a customisable selection of additional digital services. These can be made available over the air, both via the BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades facility and thanks to an ever-expanding variety of third-party apps offered as part of the optional BMW Digital Premium package.

BMW Digital Premium allows in-car use of the specific apps available in each country on a subscription basis. Besides music streaming, the range of in-car gaming with the AirConsole game platform also includes the popular quiz “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”. BMW Digital Premium additionally covers the necessary data usage for the featured digital services. This option also expands the functions of the navigation system and the selection of both My Modes and lighting effects for the Welcome and Goodbye Animation.

Smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ is available as standard. The BMW ID and My BMW App make it easy to personalise the user experience in the new BMW X3. There is also the option of using the My BMW App to set up the BMW Digital Key Plus with ultra-wideband radio technology for compatible smartphones running iOS or Android or for an Apple Watch.