BMW UK welcomes the new year with outstanding success at the 2026 What Car? Car of the Year Awards as the all-new BMW iX3 is named overall Car of the Year after topping the Premium Electric SUV category. Alongside these awards, BMW collected four additional accolades across a variety of categories. The BMW M3 Touring was celebrated as three-time Performance Car of the Year, while the BMW 4 Series was announced as What Car?’s Coupé of choice for the sixth consecutive year. BMW continues to lead the Luxury Car category as the BMW X7 succeeds the BMW i7 in securing the 2026 accolade. Rounding off a triumphant night, the BMW X3 attained this year’s Safety Award.

BMW iX3 crowned overall Car of the Year.
Marking a true milestone moment for the brand, the BMW iX3 arrives as the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, introducing a broad spectrum of innovations and technologies that will soon be adopted across the entire BMW product portfolio. Since its unveiling last year, the trailblazing BMW iX3 has garnered widespread acclaim, and this momentum continues after securing the coveted overall Car of the Year title at this year’s What Car? awards.

The BMW iX3 thoroughly impressed judges, topping the Premium Electric SUV category before collecting the headline award. Handing over the trophy, Steve Huntingford, Editor of What Car?, said: "The premium electric SUV market is one of the most hotly contested, yet in so many respects the BMW iX3 offers a step change in capability. It combines a huge range with ultra-rapid charging; its new 'brain' improves everything from the infotainment system to safety; and despite being one of the most enjoyable SUVs of any kind to drive, it's also very comfortable. In short, it's a truly great car."

On accepting the award, David George, CEO, BMW Group UK and Ireland commented: “We are truly honoured that the BMW iX3 has been named as the 2026 What Car? Car of the Year. This award is especially meaningful given its prestigious reputation and What Car?’s rigorous testing process. Like the original Neue Klasse of the 1960s, the BMW iX3 represents the beginning of a new era for BMW, bringing significant advancements in technology, range and charging capabilities while maintaining the unmistakable driving experience our customers know and expect. We extend our thanks to the entire What Car? team for this special recognition and look forward to showcasing the innovations of the Neue Klasse across the BMW product portfolio.”

The new BMW iX3 will launch in the UK on 7 March, 2026 and can be preordered at retailers nationwide. Following its launch, BMW will introduce 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027, commencing with the BMW i3 Saloon – which begins production in the second half of 2026.

BMW M3 Touring celebrated as three-time Performance Car of the Year.
Since its launch in 2022, the BMW M3 Touring has remained a consistent favourite, impressing judges year after year with its unique combination of exhilarating performance and practical versatility. Its success continued at this year’s awards, after collecting the Performance Car of the Year accolade for the third consecutive year. "The BMW M3 Touring isn't a jack of all trades; it's a master of most that manages to combine everyday usability with a huge amount of fun,” said Huntingford. “The handling can feel as secure or playful as you wish. No matter where you are in the rev range, acceleration is savage when you put your foot down. And yet the M3 Touring is just as capable of playing the classy and practical family car,” he continued.

Coupé of the Year awarded to the BMW 4 Series for the sixth consecutive year.
The remarkable winning streak of the BMW 4 Series remains unbroken as it tops What Car?’s Coupé of the Year category for the sixth time since its 2020 launch. The judging panel commended its “precise steering,” “balanced feel through corners” and engine, which “loves to be revved…” “One of the best things about the BMW 4 Series is that even the entry-level 420i version is great to drive,” Huntingford added.

Luxury Car of the Year title retained as the BMW X7 takes this year’s top spot.
2026 begins as another successful year for BMW’s luxury division after the BMW X7 succeeded the BMW i7 in securing this year’s Luxury Car of the Year title – marking a third consecutive victory for the brand. Judges highlighted the seven-seater’s combination of “luxury and power” to deliver “effortless performance”. Additional tribute was paid to its serene driving experience – standing as one of the “quietest vehicles ever tested” by the publication – alongside abundant interior space and an “impressive ride,” which “gets even better” with the optional Executive Drive Suspension.

BMW X3 secures this year’s Safety Award.
The final award of the evening was presented to the BMW X3, which was unveiled as What Car?’s pick when it comes to safety. Commenting on the win, judges said: "As well as keeping its occupants safe in a crash, the BMW X3 is packed with active safety technology that can prevent accidents from happening in the first place. However, what really sets it apart is the way in which these systems work collaboratively with the driver, avoiding the unnecessary interventions that can lead to them being switched off."

The current generation BMW X3 will continue to be sold in the UK alongside the new BMW iX3, offering customers a choice of all-electric, petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains for maximum flexibility.


Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group UK enters autumn in a strong position, having collected a variety of industry accolades at recent awards. Four of which were collected at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2025, where the BMW i7 retained its Best Electric Luxury Car title for the third consecutive year. Similar success followed at the annual Towcar of the Year Awards with three category wins, including a double for the recently updated BMW iX. Meanwhile, MINI further strengthens its model lineup with the introduction of the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome, offering a sleek design and an enhanced standard specification.

BMW Group collects four awards at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2025.
BMW Group recently secured four category wins at the What Car? Electric Awards, which each year celebrate the best electric vehicles (EVs) currently available for the UK market. Considering innovation, performance and sustainability, the awards help consumers identify the best EVs across a range of categories.

The BMW i7 was named Best Electric Luxury Car for the third consecutive year, as BMW continues to “set the standard” for electric luxury cars, said What Car? Editor, Steve Huntingford. “The i7 and iX are both so good that they’ve earned our maximum five-star rating.” Continuing its status as class-leader, the flagship saloon was praised by judges for its “incredible comfort”, “beautiful” finish, unique technology – such as the “fabulous 8K cinema screen” – and its “uncanny ability to shut out unwanted noise.”

Also celebrated by the publication was the BMW 330e, which claimed the title for Best Used Hybrid Executive Car. Commenting on the win, Huntingford praised its “low running costs”, “driver appeal”, and “plush interior”. Meanwhile, the BMW 530e secured the Best Used Hybrid Estate award, offering “space, quality and efficiency that’s unmatched”. The final trophy of the night was presented to the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4, which topped the Best Used Hybrid Small SUV category, thanks to its impressive reliability – scoring 99.7 per cent in the recent What Car? Reliability Survey – and class-leading refinement.

BMW iX and BMW X3 commended at the annual Towcar of the Year Awards.
Continuing its winning streak, BMW celebrated success at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards – an annual celebration of the best cars currently available for consumers with towing needs. To qualify, all manufacturers must take part in a rigorous testing process across four days at Millbrook Proving Ground. Participating models are scored on practicality, innovation and overall driving experience, in addition to their all-important towing capacity.

The recently revised BMW iX secured two awards, leading both the Caravan Weight over 2,000kg and Electric Towcar categories. On presenting the accolades, judges named the iX “one of its star performers”, and paid tribute to the adaptive air suspension’s ability to “keep everything stable, composed and level when hitched, while regenerative braking helped control descents.”

An additional title was presented to the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, after topping the Caravan Weight 1700-1800kg category. Judges commended the M Performance model’s towing capabilities, stating, “The [BMW] X3 undeniably has a quality feel, especially when towing: it’s stable, secure and delivers immense confidence when braking.” The panel were equally impressed by its driving dynamics; “it’s a really fun car to drive that offers class-leading acceleration performance,” they continued.

Introducing the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome.
MINI is pleased to introduce the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome. The largest member of the MINI family is the third model to receive the Monochrome treatment, following the launch of the MINI Cooper Electric Monochrome and the MINI Aceman Monochrome in July.

Like its siblings, the special edition is offered in a fixed specification, where customers can select from Midnight Black or Nanuq White exterior paint finishes and benefit from an increased level of standard equipment, including MINI Navigation with Head-Up Display, wireless charging and LED headlights. Black 18-inch Asteroid Spoke alloy wheels are also standard, alongside a body-coloured roof for a seamless finish.

Inside, an Anthracite headliner is accompanied by a model-exclusive interior pattern, where the new multitone fabric spreads across the front and rear seats, finished with white and yellow stitching.

The MINI Countryman E Monochrome is equipped with a 64.6 kWh battery, enabling 10–80-per-cent charging in 29 minutes when using a 130 kW DC charger. The model is priced at £32,595 OTR, with initial customer deliveries commencing in January 2026.

For more information about the MINI Monochrome lineup, visit mini.co.uk.

Ends


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW UK has collected 12 industry awards in recent weeks, reflecting strong recognition across a broad range of segments. Five awards were presented at last night’s Auto Express New Car Awards, including two wins for the newly revised BMW iX. Also announced this week was EcoCar’s Electrified Top 50 for 2025, which featured a double win for the BMW i5, alongside recognition for the BMW iX, BMW i7 and BMW 330e. The BMW iX3 and BMW i4 further contributed to BMW’s winning streak, after each took a top spot at the 2025 Autotrader Driver’s Choice Awards, based on feedback from British car owners.

BMW claims five accolades at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2025.
BMW proudly collected five awards at last night’s Auto Express New Car Awards, judged by the title’s expert automotive editorial team. The awards are designed to help car buyers choose the best models on the market, with judging based on practicality, efficiency, price, reliability and the overall driving experience.

Congratulating BMW on its achievements this year, Auto Express Editor Paul Barker said: “Five separate awards across four of its models highlights the strength and depth of BMW’s range, with cars as diverse as the sporty 2 Series Coupé and big iX electric SUV picked out by our judges as the best at what they do... “BMW manages to keep driving pleasure core to its cars’ appeal without sacrificing practicality or efficiency, and we’re delighted it keeps producing the goods.”

The new BMW iX was presented with two awards on the night, recognising it as both Premium SUV of the Year and Premium Electric Car of the Year. Describing the iX as “a hugely impressive premium SUV” which has “got even better with its recent update”, Auto Express judges commended the technology flagship for its “stunning interior” and a driving experience which “completely belies its size and weight”. It’s “hugely practical” and “a brilliant and comfortable long-distance cruiser”, judges added.

In the Premium Mid-sized SUV category, the BMW X3 stood out among the competition, with the latest generation described as “moving the game on”. “It had an awful lot to live up to, considering how good its predecessor was,” said judges. Yet the new BMW X3 continues to deliver, impressing the panel with its diverse powertrains, innovative technology, cabin quality and practicality, with “almost no flaws.”

The publication’s preferred Premium Hybrid was the BMW 530e, with this latest award further reinforcing the eighth-generation 5 Series’ reputation as the world’s most successful business saloon. “Great range figures from the battery and electric motor combined with an engaging drive, plush cabin and cutting-edge tech gives the BMW 530e an edge over any of its rivals,” Barker commented. “It's comfortable and refined on the motorway but fun when you're off the main roads – our favourite premium hybrid car.”

The fourth and final BMW to receive praise at the ceremony was the BMW 2 Series Coupé, after it was named Premium Coupé of the Year. Speaking on the win, Barker said, “The 2 Series Coupé feels like an old-school BMW, in a good way. Its simple front-engine, rear-drive layout delivers a hugely engaging driving experience in compact and nimble dimensions, and the crowning glory is the incredible M2.”

Five awards presented to BMW at the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards 2025.
Held annually, the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 counts down the very best cars in the electrified world, encompassing a wide variety of electrified powertrains from mild hybrid to fully electric. The BMW 330e, BMW i7 and BMW i5 all featured in this year’s shortlist, while the new BMW iX placed fifth in the overall rankings. In addition, each model topped its respective category, with the BMW i5 securing a double win.

Now offering up to 63 miles (WLTP¹) of all-electric range, the recently refreshed BMW 330e was voted EcoCar’s Best Plug-in Hybrid Compact Executive Car, described as the “ideal” choice for “business users and urban drivers alike.” Speaking on the win, judges said, “The 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor work in seamless tandem, while the handling remains benchmark-sharp. Subtle styling tweaks and an improved infotainment system further cement its all-round appeal.”

Next to be recognised was the BMW i7, which took home the award for Best Electric Luxury Car. “As luxury EVs go, few can match the serenity and spectacle of the BMW i7,” said EcoCar. Praised for its substantial single-charge range, “limousine levels of comfort” and “jaw-dropping” rear-seat theatre screen, the flagship saloon was also commended by judges for its “exceptional” refinement, “effortless” performance and for a technology package that manages to be “futuristic without being overwhelming.”

The title for Best Electric Luxury SUV was awarded to the new BMW iX, which secured fifth place in EcoCar’s Top 50 countdown. The BMW iX’s “carbon core chassis, refined ride and spacious lounge-like interior deliver comfort and composure in equal measure,” said EcoCar Editor, Ian Robertson. “Technology lovers will enjoy the vast curved display and sophisticated driver assistance systems, while luxury SUV buyers will appreciate its serene character and quality materials throughout. It’s like sitting in your lounge on your driveway.”

The BMW i5 rounded off the awards with a double win, after it was named Best Electric Executive Car and Best Electric Estate Car. Labelled by EcoCar as a “masterclass in premium motoring,” the BMW i5 was acknowledged for its compelling technology package, efficiency and overall refinement. “Estate buyers will love the new Touring models, that are a perfect blend of business sense and driving pleasure,” the judging panel added.

Autotrader celebrate the BMW i4 and BMW iX3 at their Drivers’ Choice Awards.
Formerly known as the Autotrader New Car Awards, the Drivers’ Choice Awards are uniquely positioned as they are judged not by the opinions of industry leaders, but by car owners themselves. Over 200,000 British car owners completed an online survey, determining 20 of this year’s 25 award-winning models and sharing exactly what they thought of their car.

BMW celebrated double success, as the brand received two coveted category wins. First to be recognised was the BMW iX3, which continues to impress the driving public as it was named the UK’s Best Premium Electric Car for 2025. The BMW i4 also triumphed, taking top spot in the UK’s Best Car for Families category.

Commenting on BMW’s success, Erin Baker, Autotrader’s Editorial Director, said, “BMW has made huge strides with its electric range, and securing two separate trophies is a huge and much deserved achievement.

“The i4 proves that SUVs aren’t the only choice for families and confidently fended off competition from much larger rivals. It scored top marks for its ability to carry a family of four in comfort whilst having plenty of oomph to put a smile on the driver’s face. And if recognition for one brilliant EV wasn’t enough, BMW’s iX3 took the trophy for Best Premium Electric Car, receiving high praise from owners for its design inside and out, with one telling us that ‘It’s extremely well packaged and designed with lots of usable space, has excellent range and brilliant performance to boot.’ Great work BMW.”


Ends

1) Up to 63 miles of all-electric range achievable for the BMW 330e Saloon as part of the WLTP test cycle.


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

 

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW has enhanced its product portfolio with the introduction of the new BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 Shadow Edition alongside an expanded range of exterior paint colours for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive and BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack. Meanwhile, BMW Group UK continues its winning streak, with both BMW and MINI receiving multiple accolades from T3, Professional Driver and Company Car & Van.

New Shadow Edition available for BMW iX1 and BMW iX2.
The most compact models within the all-electric BMW SAV lineup can now be further personalised with the introduction of the BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 Shadow Edition. This new trim option packages an expanded list of standard equipment and sporty styling features at a compelling price. Over and above the M Sport trim, customers opting for the Shadow Edition receive 19-inch alloy wheels (for BMW iX1/already standard for BMW iX2), red M Sport brake callipers, Shadow Line Adaptive LED headlights and M Sport Pro Package styling features.

Increased personalisation for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive and BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack.
First introduced last summer, the BMW X3 M50 xDrive is equipped with the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine ever fitted in an M Performance model, delivering dynamic performance capabilities which set a new benchmark for driving pleasure in its class. From launch, customers opting for the range topper could choose from eight exterior paint finishes, however from April production, the colour palette will be expanded with the addition of 490 BMW Individual paint colours, including Sao Paulo Yellow, Daytona Violet and Frozen Black.

Also benefiting from an expanded range of exterior paints is BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack. Previously finished exclusively in Frozen Deep Green with Cognac upholstery, the six-speed manual roadster can now be specified in seven exterior paint options including Skycraper Grey, Thundernight Purple and San Francisco Red. Increased personalisation continues inside the cockpit with a choice of four new interior upholsteries. 

T3 presents the Best Car Tech award to the BMW Panoramic Vision.
Following the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), T3 has compiled its list of standout technologies from the Las Vegas event, with BMW’s revolutionary Panoramic Vision emerging as the title’s top pick for in-car innovation.

The BMW Panoramic Vision is the focal point of the next-generation BMW iDrive system, which will include the latest BMW Operating System X. Rolling out on all-new BMW models launched from the end of 2025, this industry-leading head-up display concept projects content across the entire lower portion of the windscreen, with the most important driving information available directly in the driver’s line of sight.

On presenting the award T3’s Editor-in-Chief Mat Gallagher said, “In-car tech is one of the most forward-thinking platforms right now and none more so than the new BMW iDrive system. Ready to feature in the next generation of electric vehicles – known as the Neue Klasse – the iDrive OSX system combines four elements to deliver optimum driver communication.

“The highlight is the Panoramic Vision, a thin projected screen that sits under the windscreen, providing a wealth of information. The contents are customisable, allowing you to drag and drop different widgets from the specially angled centre screen. It's super futuristic and really useful for keeping all those features in your eyeline. We can't wait to see it in the upcoming iX3 later this year.”

Double success for BMW at the 2025 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards.
Two of BMW’s flagship all-electric models collected category awards at the 2025 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards. With six categories in total, the annual awards are judged by Professional Driver readers, who evaluate more than 60 cars as part of the selection process.

The BMW i5 Touring was named Estate Car of the Year with Editor Mark Bursa commenting, “The estate Car category was test, with several strong contenders for the prize. But our judges went with an electric car – and one of the newest on the market. The BMW i5 Touring is not just a refined car that’s ideal for executive chauffeuring – it’s a joy to drive too.”

Following the success of the BMW M760e xDrive at last year’s awards, the BMW 7 Series continues to lead Professional Driver’s Chauffeur Car category, with the all-electric BMW i7 taking the 2025 top spot. “The new 7-series has become a game-changer in the chauffeur market, giving drivers and operators a practical and supremely luxurious electric limousine,” said Bursa.

BMW Group triumphs at the 2025 Company Car & Van Awards.
Company Car & Van (CC&V) offers expert advice to individuals who directly influence the make-up of their company’s fleet. Each year at the CC&V Awards, the title shortlists the best vehicles for the fleet market and crowns their overall Fleet Manufacturer of the Year. For 2025, this headline award was presented to the BMW Group.

CC&V Editor Andrew Walker praised BMW Group’s comprehensive product portfolio: “With a vast choice of electric & plug-in hybrid's BMW & MINI really came of age in 2024, cementing their position as the most forward thinking premium brand across all car sizes. From the new electric Mini Cooper, Countryman & Aceman to the BMW iX2, i5, i7 updated i4, iX3 & plug-in 330e, every company car sector was covered leaving the competition trailing behind.”

Two further wins were garnered across both brands, with the BMW 5 Series and MINI Countryman each topping their respective category.

Named a “worthy” winner of the Executive Car of the Year 2025 award, the BMW 5 Series was commended for its “brilliant” drive and intuitive on-board technology. “The interior has the wow factor & in electric form, the i5 is probably the best all around electric saloon out there. If we had to choose one executive car, then the 5 Series would be it”, Walker added.

Meanwhile, the all-new MINI Countryman claimed the award for Medium Car of the Year, with judges applauding its nostalgia-infused yet technologically-advanced cabin. “It's the largest MINI yet, but don't let that worry you because both petrol & electric versions are best in class to drive, whilst offering decent interior space & a useful boot… A car we’d happily drive every day.”

Ends

About the BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Thank you for attending the BMW Group UK November Multi-Model Launch event, featuring first drive opportunities for the BMW X3, BMW 1 Series and the new MINI Aceman.

Please see below for links to the press materials for each model. 


BMW X3 - UK Press Kit & Photography 
BMW X3 - Press Release

BMW 1 Series - UK Press Kit & Photography
BMW 1 Series - Press Release

MINI Aceman - UK Press Kit & Photography
MINI Aceman - Press Release

Spec sheets for all vehicles and the product presentations are available for download below. 
 

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market. 

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 (fuel consumption combined: 8.3 – 7.7 l/100 km (62 miles); CO₂ emissions combined: 189 – 175 g/km according to WLTP; CO₂ class(es) G-F). 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 complete summer 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 as both a summer and winter complete wheel set. 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.

• Bold exterior design with a distinctive double kidney grille, Iconic Glow, new L-shaped LED headlight design, and a sporty new silhouette.
• Brand new interior featuring the latest BMW iDrive with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 9, BMW Interaction Bar, new seats, and sustainable materials; boot capacity on combustion models increased to 570 litres, expandable to 1,700 litres.
• The latest generation BMW eDrive technology in the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid extends its electric range up to 56 miles (WLTP). Re-engineered chassis on all models, offering enhanced driving characteristics and ride comfort.
• Range-topping BMW X3 M50 xDrive features the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine yet fitted in an M Performance model, with a maximum output of 398 hp.
• High standard specification across the range, including three-zone automatic climate control, acoustic glazing, Comfort Access, automatic tailgate, electric folding exterior mirrors, and BMW Live Cockpit Plus with BMW Maps navigation. Available in one solid and eight metallic shades, including three new colours: Dune Grey, Fire Red, and Arctic Race Blue.
• Priced from £48,375 OTR, with order books opening today and the first UK customer deliveries starting in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Boasting greater sporting appeal, visual impact, and versatility than ever, the new BMW X3 redefines the all-rounder for everyday use, leisure activities, and trips away. The fourth generation Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) showcases a bold new design language, enhancing its exterior presence and dynamic elegance. Inside, high-quality materials, generous standard features, advanced digitalisation, and the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect powered by BMW Operating System 9 create a premium ambience. The new BMW X3 also excels in driving pleasure, safety, and long-distance comfort, thanks to its meticulously tuned setup and comprehensive suite 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 _{(consumption, weighted and combined: 24.0 – 22.3 kWh/100 km and 256.8 – 313.9 mpg; CO2 emissions, weighted and combined: 26 – 21 g/km in WLTP cycle; fuel consumption with battery empty: 35.8 – 39.2 mpg in WLTP cycle; CO2 classes: with battery empty G – F; weighted and combined B)} to achieve an electric range of 50 – 56 miles in the WLTP cycle. With a boost in power to 398 hp and dynamic performance capabilities that outclass its rivals, the new BMW X3 M50 xDrive M Performance model _{(fuel consumption, combined: 34.0 – 36.7 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 189 – 175 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO2 class(es) G – F)} presents a compelling proposition.

The new model's contemporary design and enhanced substance provide the perfect foundation for adding another chapter to the BMW X3 success story, which began over 20 years ago. Since pioneering the SAV segment in the premium midsize segment, it has played a crucial role in the increasing popularity of BMW X models and became the brand's best-selling model worldwide in 2023. The new BMW X3 will be built at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg (USA) and Plant Rosslyn (South Africa) using a production process focused on conserving resources and circularity. Priced from £48,375 and available to order at BMW retailers in the UK from today, the first BMW X3 customer deliveries will start in the fourth quarter of 2024.

^{*All figures relating to performance, consumption, electric range and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.}

New design language shines the spotlight on distinctive proportions.
A new design language for the BMW X3 exterior helps to give the fourth generation model a distinctive character while retaining typical BMW X model proportions. Generously proportioned surfaces combine with just a few, crisply defined lines result in a clearly structured exterior design 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. BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting forms a continuous line around each element of the grille and is fitted as standard on the M50 model and optionally available across the wider range. 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 optionally available, as are M Shadowline lights.

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 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 xLine models are equipped as standard with 18 inch light-alloy wheels (BMW X3 30e xDrive: 19 inches), with a selection of 20-inch and 21-inch items also available as factory-fitted options. Meanwhile, M Sport models 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 Pro package 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 new BMW X3 cabin 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 a secondary material. Veganza and BMW Individual Merino leather upholsteries are both available as an option. 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 299 hp.

Helped by latest-generation BMW eDrive technology and adaptive recuperation, the new BMW X3 30e xDrive achieves an electric range of 50 – 56 miles in the WLTP cycle, which is considerably longer than its predecessor. 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 398 hp 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 62 mph 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. There is also the option of 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.

48V mild hybrid technology, eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard.
48V mild hybrid technology is also fitted in all other variants of the new BMW X3, providing enhanced efficiency and rapid power delivery. It enables the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit in the new BMW X3 20 xDrive _{(fuel consumption, combined: 37.2 – 40.9 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 172 – 156 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO2 class: F)} to generate maximum output of 208 hp. This translates into a 0 to 62 mph acceleration time of 7.8 seconds.

The four-cylinder diesel engine, also with a displacement of 2.0 litres, in the new BMW X3 20d xDrive _{(fuel consumption, combined: 43.5 – 48.7 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 171 – 153 g/km in WLTP cycle; CO2 classes: F – E)} posts maximum output of 197 hp. The diesel model completes the 0 to 62 mph 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 on M Sport models and on 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 new BMW X3 model variants 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.

The M Sport suspension, including sport steering, is standard on M Sport models and is also available as an option for xLine customers seeking enhanced dynamic performance. M Sport brakes are an optional extra for both xLine and M Sport trims, but come as standard, along with the M Sport suspension, on 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 generous standard specification 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, 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 BMW Head-Up Display, and also the Augmented View function in the control display. New equipment packages are also available for further customisation of the car, including the Comfort Package which features lumbar support, the Harman Kardon surround sound system, the Travel & Comfort System and Adaptive LED Headlights. And the Comfort Plus Package adds sun blinds for the rear side windows, active seat ventilation in the front and seat heating in the rear. Also 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 comes with the BMW IconicSounds Electric 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 new BMW iDrive is geared squarely to touch and voice control, while the QuickSelect feature allows functions to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu. Based on BMW Operating System 9, the system 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 on a subscription basis. Besides music streaming, the portfolio includes a wide choice of video streaming options on the control display. The range of in-car gaming with the AirConsole game platform includes the popular quiz “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”. This option expands the functions of the navigation system and the selection of both My Modes and lighting effects for the Welcome and Goodbye Animation. BMW Digital Premium additionally covers the necessary data usage for the featured digital services.

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.

ENDS

<sup>*All figures relating to performance, consumption, electric range and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.  For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/ .</sup>

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
X: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
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For further information please contact:

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk 

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.  

Munich/Miramas. At the end of series development, the new BMW X3 undergoes final tuning of all chassis control and driver assistance systems at the BMW Group test centre in Miramas, southern France. The fourth generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) in the premium mid-range vehicle segment will be presented in a few weeks' time with both highly efficient combustion engines and an advanced plug-in hybrid drive. The development and test engineers ensure that all model variants of the new BMW X3, regardless of drive concept and weight, demonstrate superior handling in every situation with an intensive tuning programme. The well-coordinated functionality of all automated driving and parking systems in the new BMW X3 also contributes to a harmonious customer experience.

The new BMW X3 has already undergone extensive testing on snow and ice, in extremely hot regions and off-road on its way to series production. The SAV's suitability for everyday use and travelling was tested and refined in urban stop-and-go traffic as well as on winding country roads, highways and selected race tracks.

Perfectly coordinated systems for a typical BMW driving experience.

The development engineers use the versatile test track in Miramas to put the finishing touches to the driving experience of the new BMW X3. In addition to an asphalt oval and a highway ring, there are also slalom, serpentine and circular tracks as well as off-road courses and handling courses with different road surfaces. This allows the longitudinal and lateral acceleration, suspension and damping, steering precision and braking behaviour of the new BMW X3 to be analysed and optimised down to the last detail.

The driving dynamics and efficiency of the new BMW X3 benefit from intelligent lightweight construction and optimised aerodynamic properties. With a drag coefficient (C_d) of 0.27, it sets new standards in its competitive environment.

Compared to its predecessor, the new BMW X3 also has a wider track and reduced lift at the rear axle. In addition, the rigidity of the body and the chassis connection has been increased. Targeted improvements to the kinematics and elastokinematics of both axles, combined with a 19 per cent increase in the caster of the front wheels, ensure noticeably improved directional stability. A more direct steering ratio enhances steering comfort, while extensively modified anti-roll bars improve cornering dynamics without compromising ride comfort.

An Adaptive Chassis with electronically controlled shock absorbers is available as an option for the new BMW X3. The final tuning is part of the driving dynamics test at Miramas and offers two maps that can be selected via My Modes. In addition, the new version of the SAV comes as standard with the latest version of BMW Lateral Dynamics Management, which ensures precise control of the required steering torques, the actuator-based wheel slip limitation and the yaw torque distribution of Performance Control, adapted to the driving situation at all times.

Thanks to BMW's unique development expertise, all components and systems of the drive and chassis technology are perfectly matched. The result is the characteristic combination of precision, sovereignty and versatility that characterises the driving experience in a BMW SAV. 

Automated driving is also optimised by BMW's typical level of integration.

The new BMW X3 features the latest BMW iDrive based on the BMW Operating System 9 including BMW iDrive Controller and offers a significantly expanded selection of systems for automated driving and parking compared to the predecessor model. With its standard equipment, it clearly exceeds the requirements of the Euro NCAP safety test. The particularly sensitive braking and steering interventions of the assistance systems compared to the competition are another example of the unique integration performance of BMW riving dynamics development. They enable harmonious interaction between driver and vehicle in every situation.

The outstanding functionality of all assistance systems is based on state-of-the-art sensor technology as well as software, processor and network technology. Highlights in the new BMW X3 include the Active Lane Change Assistant and the Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant, which allows the driver to control manoeuvres from outside the vehicle using a smartphone.

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. 

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

• Latest generation models updated with sportier styling and more equipment  • Sharp new exterior design shared
• Choice of xLine and M Sport trim lines for X3 customers, M Sport standard specification for X4 and performance focused M40i and M40d variants for both models
• BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive and 8-speed Steptronic transmissions as standard
• All combustion engines married to 48-volt mild hybrid technology
• New navigation system and BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 12.3-inch display fitted as standard
• BMW X3 priced from £43,370 OTR^*** and BMW X4 priced from £49,010 OTR^***
• Available to order now and first UK customer deliveries from September 2021

BMW has enhanced its BMW X3 and BMW X4 models with a comprehensive refresh that includes sportier styling together with modern interiors, new equipment and updated infotainment.

The strongest visual aspect of the enhancements is the redesigned front and rear section which, in the latest third-generation of the BMW X3, accentuates the robust Sports Activity Vehicle appearance. Its Sports Activity Coupé counterpart, the second-generation BMW X4, adopts the new front design and adds its own accentuation with the BMW mesh kidney grille and dynamic rear-end styling.

The new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 feature modern hybrid technology. In addition to the BMW X3 xDrive30e with plug-in hybrid drive, all four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines in both model series now use 48-volt mild hybrid technology.

All versions feature BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive and 8-speed Steptronic transmissions that are specifically tuned to match each engine’s characteristics, contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.

Both model ranges are topped with M40i and M40d variants, which are even more dynamic when specified in Pro Edition trim. X3 customers can choose between xLine or M Sport trim on other versions, while BMW X4 customers benefit from M Sport trim as standard.

Both the X3 and X4 include enhanced equipment such as the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 12.3-inch Control Display and automatic air conditioning with three-zone control. X3 xLine models also include sports seats with upholstery featuring a new generation of Sensatec in the new Ray grain.

The UK market launch of the new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 will get underway in September 2021, following the start of production at BMW Plant Spartanburg (USA) in August 2021.

New BMW kidney grille and flatter headlights
The BMW kidney grille is larger than before and now comprises a single-piece frame. A black bar, in which the iCam is positioned if fitted, provides visual separation of the grille. The frame is finished in pearlescent chrome and the grille bars in satin-finished aluminium. The front headlights, which are now about 10mm flatter, feature full LED technology as standard. As an option, darkened inserts in M Shadow Line lights can replace the light components in the headlights. Adaptive LED headlights are standard and BMW Laser Light with a range of up to 650 metres are available as an optional upgrade.

New front apron and vertical air intakes
Below the headlights, vertical air intakes frame the front bumper. In the new front apron, amply-sized surfaces in body colour and the robust underbody protection reinforce the presence and high-quality feel of the new BMW X3. The window graphics and roof rails are in satin-finished aluminium as standard.

Newly designed rear apron a nd tailpipe trims
The rear section of the new BMW X3 is sharper and bolder. A black border encircles full LED rear lights, while the narrower light graphic now includes a three-dimensional contour and integrated horizontal turn signals. There’s also new underbody protection and larger flush-fitting tailpipe trims.

M S port trim with specific exterior details
The M Sport trim gives the BMW X3 a sportier look. The trim-specific front apron features larger air inlets and inserts finished in high-gloss black, as well as more pronounced air curtains. High Gloss Shadow Line exterior trim also extends to the window graphics and roof rails, the frame and the bars of the BMW kidney grille. The sportier rear bumper includes a more striking diffuser finished in Dark Shadow along with two additional side air‑curtain‑panels in high-gloss black. The standard trim includes the new 19-inch light alloy wheel Y-Spoke in Midnight Grey Bicolor, while 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are additionally available as an option, as are the M Sport brakes with blue or red brake callipers.

The M Sport also adds such features as the M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel, M Sport suspension, remote control including integrated key, Performance Control, Aluminium Rhombicle interior trim and Variable Sport Steering.

Further M insignia in the M Performance cars
The BMW X3 M40i and BMW X3 M40d offer added visual differentiation. Both vehicles feature a specific BMW M kidney grille which, in addition to a chrome frame, bears the M double grille bars in high-gloss black and an M logo. Aerodynamically optimised M exterior mirrors in high-gloss black and specially designed tailpipe trims in black chrome ensure a distinctive look. The BMW X3 M40i and BMW X3 M40d are fitted as standard with 21-inch M Double-spoke bicolour alloy wheels.

The Pro Edition takes the M experience to an even higher level. It builds on the extensive standard specification with the likes of BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey paint, carbon fibre interior trim, M Sport front seats, M Sport brakes with red calipers and M carbon exterior mirror caps.

Eight paint finishes to choose from
Following the redesign of the BMW X3, BMW offers a total of eight paint finishes in the regular range, including the one non-metallic finish in Alpine White. Customers can enhance their paintwork further by choosing a special BMW Individual paint finish in Tanzanite Blue, which is available for xDrive30e, M40i and M40d models.

BMW mesh kidney grille as an exclusive distinguishing feature
As with the BMW X3, BMW has also significantly revised the front and rear sections of the BMW X4. The coupé completely adopts the new front end of the BMW X3 with headlights that are around 10mm flatter, along with the redesigned front apron and the enlarged, and more striking, BMW kidney grille. The BMW X4 features the mesh kidney grille, familiar from other sporty BMW models. The mesh‑inserts are in satin-finished aluminium, while the frame is finished in pearlescent chrome as before. The adaptive LED headlights also come as standard.

Coupé silhouette and redesigned rear
The typical BMW proportions with long bonnet, flat windscreen and long wheelbase give the BMW X4 an elongated, sporty appearance. It is 55mm lower than the BMW X3, longer by 43mm and 27mm wider. Featuring full LED rear lights with a three-dimensional design, emphasising the vehicle width, the rear section now has an even more clear-cut shape. The new rear apron looks neater, with an increased proportion of painted surface and reflectors now placed vertically and lower in the bumper. The wide free-form tailpipe trims echo the horizontal lines of the upper section.

M Sport trim with striking rear apron
With the M Sport trim, the BMW X4 has the BMW mesh kidney grille in chrome with Black High Gloss vertical slats. The distinctive appearance is further enhanced with High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and M aerodynamic bodystyling, while inside there is an Anthracite headlining, Aluminium Rhombicle interior trim and M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel. M Sport also includes remote control with integrated key and the new 19-inch Y‑Spoke alloy wheels in Midnight Grey Bicolor as standard.

BMW M insignia for the BMW X4 M40i and BMW X4 M40d
The BMW X4 M40i and the BMW X4 M40d are based on the corresponding X3 models in terms of look and standard equipment, and like them bear the typical BMW M insignia. These include the specific BMW M kidney grille with chrome frame, double kidney bars in high-gloss black and M logo as well as the aerodynamically optimised M exterior mirrors in high-gloss black. The BMW X4 M40i and BMW X4 M40d also feature the tailpipe trims in black chrome. 21-inch M Double-spoke bicolour alloy wheels are fitted as standard on both models, like on their BMW X3 counterparts.

The Pro Edition adds BMW individual Frozen Deep Grey paint, carbon fibre interior trim, M Sport front seats, M Sport brakes with red calipers, and M carbon exterior mirror caps.

High levels of standard equipment and new Sensatec upholstery on X3 xLine models
The new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 now welcome passengers into a significantly revised interior. The centre console in the two X models is drawn from the current BMW 4 Series. The free-standing, central Control Display with touch function now offers a screen diagonal of 12.3 inches as standard.

The significantly improved range of standard equipment now also includes enhanced sports seats, with upholstery featuring a new generation of Sensatec in the new Ray grain and perforated main surfaces for X3 xLine models. X3 M Sport models and all X4 models feature Vernasca leather upholstery as standard. Automatic air conditioning with three-zone control is standard across the range, allowing separate temperature settings for the driver and front passenger as well as separate climate control at the rear.

In order to increase seating comfort at the rear, the inclination of the rear-seat backrest, which has a 40:20:40 split as standard, can be individually adjusted in several stages via the cargo function. For increased functionality, the optional storage package includes an adaptive fastening system. The standard load volume of 550 litres can be increased to up to 1,600 litres in the BMW X3 and from 525 litres to a maximum of 1,430 litres in the BMW X4.

48-volt mild hybrid technology with 48-volt starter generator
The mild hybrid technology used in all available combustion engines draws on a powerful 48-volt starter generator and an additional battery, so it has significantly expanded possibilities when it comes to brake energy recuperation.

The energy obtained by means of recuperation and stored in the 48-volt battery is also used to supply the 12-volt electrical system and the electrically-operated vehicle functions connected to it. It can also be used to generate additional drive power. What’s more, the 48-volt starter generator can also create an electric boost of 11hp during hard acceleration, which is particularly helpful for overtaking.

Three powerful and highly efficient diesel engines
The three diesel engines on offer all ensure highly efficient mobility. The engine in the BMW X3 xDrive20d and the BMW X4 xDrive20d delivers an output of 190hp with a maximum torque of 400Nm between 1,750 and 2,500rpm. The two models accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 7.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 132mph.

The BMW X3 xDrive30d and the BMW X4 xDrive30d are powered by a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder. The diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 286hp at 4,000rpm and an impressive maximum torque of 650Nm between 1,500 and 2,500rpm. Both body variants sprint from 0-62mph in only 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 152mph.

The BMW X3 M40d and the BMW X4 M40d are even more powerful. Their BMW M Performance diesel engine generates a maximum output of 340hp and delivers a maximum torque of 700Nm from just 1,750rpm. As a result, acceleration from standstill to 62mph takes just 4.9 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

All diesel units feature BMW TwinPower turbocharging with variable turbine geometry and common-rail direct injection at maximum injection pressures of 2,500 to 2,700 bar. For emission control, BMW BluePerformance technology is on board with particulate filter, oxidation and NOx storage catalytic converter along with an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection.

Powerful petrol engines with four and six cylinders
The petrol engine range includes a four-cylinder engine and a powerful in-line six-cylinder. Their innovative BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology includes TwinScroll turbocharging, direct high-precision injection, the variable camshaft control system double VANOS and the fully variable valve control system Valvetronic, while emission control is supported by a petrol engine particulate filter. Additional efficiency and a power boost of 11hp when needed is provided by 48-volt‑mild‑hybrid‑technology.

The BMW X3 xDrive20i is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. It produces 184hp and maximum torque of 300Nm between 1,350 and 4,000rpm. The sprint from 0 to 62mph takes 8.4 seconds, while the top speed is 133mph.

The M Performance in-line six-cylinder engine in the BMW X3 M40i and the BMW X4 M40i generates 360hp and delivers a maximum torque of 500Nm, which is available between 1,900 and 5,000rpm. It goes from 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155mph.

Plug-in hybrid with an electric range of more than 30 miles
The BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid model features a four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor whose power is transmitted to all four wheels. Their joint system output of 252hp can be increased by up to 40hp by temporary use of the electric motor’s peak output. The BMW X3 xDrive30e takes just 6.1 seconds to accelerate from 0-62mph. It has a lithium-ion high-voltage battery that enables a range of up to 31 miles (WLTP).

^{*Fuel consumption and CO2 emission s are preliminary figures calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany. For further information, please see the Notes to Editors.
** Electronically governed.
*** Preliminary on-the-road pricing, subject to confirmation of VED band.}

8-speed Steptronic transmission for all engines
All engines are combined with 8-speed Steptronic transmissions specifically matched to their engine characteristics, contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The BMW X3 M40i, BMW X3 M40d and all BMW X4 models feature the otherwise optional 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including paddle shifts and Launch Control as standard.

BMW xDrive: precise power distribution with optimised efficiency
BMW xDrive all-wheel drive makes a significant contribution to the versatile sporty flair of the new BMW X3 and BMW X4. The latest edition of the system is lighter and more efficient. In addition, the precise electronic control of the intelligent all-wheel drive ensures the superb power distribution that is so typical of the brand. Its rear-wheel orientation makes hard cornering particularly exciting. In addition, BMW xDrive optimises both driving stability and traction over rough terrain.

High-quality suspension technology with an individual set-up
With their high-quality and specifically matched suspension technology, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 offer plenty of agility as well as a high level of ride comfort. All BMW X4s and BMW X3s from M Sport upwards are also fitted with variable sports steering as standard, in addition to the M Sport suspension. With the optional adaptive suspension, the electronically controlled dampers adapt to both road conditions and driving style. For either a sporty or comfortable basic set-up, there is a choice of two modes that can be activated using the driving experience switch.

A powerful lightweight braking system and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) also contribute to sporty and safe handling characteristics. In addition to the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), the range of functions also includes the ADB-X electronic differential lock, CBC Cornering Brake Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control, start-off assistant and HDC Hill Descent Control. Performance Control – a standard feature in the BMW X3 xDrive30e as well as all M Sport and M40i/40d on both BMW X3 and BMW X4 models – increases agility by distributing drive torque to the rear wheels depending on the situation.

Special dynamic performance in the M40i and M40d models
The M40i and M40d models of the BMW X3 and BMW X4 offer even more dynamic performance. They come as standard with a flap-controlled M Sport exhaust system, M Sport brakes and M Sport suspension with M performance-specific set-up. Adaptive M Sport suspension is standard-fit on these models, offering an even greater spread between ride comfort and sportiness. In addition, the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system is significantly more rear-oriented. Integrated in DSC and acting on the rear wheels, Performance Control has been given a new set-up to provide typical M driving dynamics.

Aerodynamic fine-tuning
With a drag coefficient of 0.29 and 0.30 respectively, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 boast the best levels in their segment. The reduction of air resistance not only helps reduce fuel consumption, it also offers benefits in terms of noise comfort. In addition to aerodynamically optimised vehicle proportions, the two models feature an enclosed underbody structure. Further aerodynamic measures include the roof spoiler and the active air flap control.

Assistance systems for enhanced comfort and safety
In refreshing the BMW X3 and BMW X4, BMW has reorganised and, once again, significantly expanded the range of modern driver assistance systems to enhance both comfort and safety. Standard systems include cruise control with braking function, as well as front collision warning with braking function for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Driving Assistant Professional is available for the first time as an option on M40d and M40i models, offering the driver enhanced comfort and safety. Parking Assistant Plus now also includes the reverse assistant, which helps retrace a completed line in reverse. Another new feature in the BMW X3 and BMW X4 is the optionally available BMW Drive Recorder, which takes video footage around the vehicle.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 12.3 -inch display as standard
With BMW Live Cockpit Professional as standard and intelligent networking including innovative digital services based on BMW Operating System 7, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 now offer particularly close interaction between driver and vehicle. The driver can configure up to ten pages of live content on the Control Display in the main menu, each with two to four pads (tiles). What’s more, greater personalisation of content and displays is now possible, too. Digital services include the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Connected Music and Remote Software Upgrade. The system includes the iDrive operating system and the addition of a 12.3-inch Control Display. BMW Head-Up display is also optionally available.

New generation of navigation with BMW Maps
One of the most important innovations in the area of digital services is BMW Maps. The cloud-based system enables significant performance improvement, a high degree of accuracy and simplified destination entry, as well as extremely fast route calculation.

In addition, BMW Maps with Connected Parking provides drivers with even more detailed support in the search for a vacant parking space near their destination, while Connected Charging helps find charging stations for the BMW X3 xDrive30e.

Smartphone connectivity and integration of 3rd party services
BMW Live Cockpit Professional offers optimised smartphone integration, for example via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™. Deep integration of Amazon Alexa also makes it possible to use Amazon’s voice service inside the vehicle in the same way as the customer is already used to doing at home.

With Digital Key, BMW is the first car manufacturer to offer its customers the option of using the iPhone as a fully-fledged digital car key. The new BMW Digital Key allows customers to unlock and lock their BMW by holding their iPhone to the door handle, and they can start the engine simply by placing the smartphone in the wireless charging cradle and pressing the start button.

The My BMW app is available in more than 40 countries for both iOS and Android operating systems. As a new universal interface to the vehicle, it provides information about the vehicle’s condition at all times and also enables remote access functions.

Enhanced functionality for the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant also gains additional capabilities in the BMW X3 and BMW X4, creating an even more intensive bond between driver and vehicle. It can now be used to regulate the air conditioning, open and close the windows or change the driving experience switch modes, for instance. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can also be used to access the new News app – which enables passengers to have the latest news read out loud to them – and it is able to learn routines that enhance both comfort and driving pleasure in certain situations. For example, the side window on the driver’s side can be automatically opened on arrival at a selected location defined via GPS coordinates – such as a garage or car park entrance.

Remote Software Upgrade updates “over-the-air”
Thanks to Remote Software Upgrade, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 also remain consistently up to date with the latest software. The upgrades can include content ranging from new services to improved vehicle functions and can be downloaded “over-the-air”, either via the My BMW app on a smartphone or directly into the vehicle via the SIM card installed in it.

                                                                 Ends


<sup>* Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

The details marked * have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/ .</sup>

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

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For further information please contact:
Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer, BMW & MINI Communications
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

The new third-generation BMW X3 combines rugged off-road looks with a greater sporting presence. It builds further on its reputation as one of the most dynamically competent and technologically advanced SUVs in its class, whilst retaining its premium image. The new model also brings in a new 2.0-litre petrol engine alongside the familiar diesel offering, plus a new performance flagship, the M40i – the first ever M Performance vehicle in the X3 line-up, emphasising the class-leading dynamic appeal of the model.

A whole range of Driver Assistance systems also ensure it is one of the most advanced, as well as safest, cars in its class, with multi-platform connectivity that reaches new levels.

Styling.
The exterior dimensions of the new BMW X3 are largely unchanged, but its five-centimetre-longer wheelbase, long bonnet and short front overhang emphasise its 50:50 weight distribution between front and rear axle. At the front, the chunky three-dimensional Active Air Stream kidney grille and optional LED fog lamps feature a hexagonal design for the first time on a BMW X model. Moving to the rear, the three-dimensional LED light clusters, downward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust tailpipes further enhance the appearance.

The three trim variants each have an individual appearance. The SE model features LED Headlights and taillights as standard, along with aluminium satinated roof rails and a new 18-inch wheel.  The xLine model gets a satin/aluminium kidney grille, more rugged front and rear bumpers with satin aluminium side sills along with 19-inch xLine specific wheels. 

The sports-oriented M Sport model focuses on the X3’s dynamic ability, with M aerodynamic features, optional blue-painted brake callipers and a 19-inch wheel design.

The new M40i features a unique M Performance exterior design with Cerium Grey kidney frames, front and rear bumper inserts, mirror caps, window graphics and air breather.  The rear tailpipes have an elongated rectangular shape in black chrome.  A new optional  21-inch wheel is available on the M40i only.

Interior.
The interior of the new X3 follows BMW tradition with a driver-focused and ergonomically designed cockpit. Hexagonal forms and precise, bevelled edges are a distinct design theme. The material quality and fit and finish are of a class above what you’d expect for a mid-range SAV, as you’d expect from a BMW, while it is also impressively functional, with more cabin stowage compared to its predecessor.

Smart details include the BMW X logo, which reoccurs frequently in different forms. For example, there is an embossed X in the electroplated accents in the front and rear doors and another on the B-pillars. As with the exterior, the three different trim levels each take a specific approach to the look and feel of the interior.

The SE features Vernasca leather seats as standard, high gloss interior trim with pearl chrome highlights, sport steering wheel and interior ambient lighting which directs a soft stream of light downwards from below the accent strip, adding a classy and relaxing ambience. Customers can choose from six colour tones - Orange, Lilac, Green, Bronze, Blue and White.  The car has standard Business Navigation and Park Assist (including Front and Rear PDC and a Reversing Assist Camera.)

Similarly, the xLine model has an elegant feel, with sports seats finished in Vernasca leather.

The M Sport gets a bespoke leather steering wheel, sports seats, anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headlining and new interior trim strips in Aluminium Rhombicle.  This car model is also equipped as standard with the BMW Professional Navigation system with new 10.25-inch widescreen display.

There are a number of BMW Individual options for the interior, centred around three exquisite variants of Merino leather.

Comfort and practicality.
The all-new X3 features three-zone automatic climate control as standard. This feature adds separate temperature controls for the rear compartment to those for the driver and front passenger. To further improve comfort in the rear compartment, the angle of the standard 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat backrests can be adjusted individually and through various stages thanks to the optional Seat Backrest adjustment. This feature also allows the backrests to be released remotely from the load compartment, which expands the standard load capacity of 550 litres to 1,600 litres.

Both front passengers can now also settle into optional perforated leather climate seats, which, as well as heating for cold days, offer active seat ventilation to provide more comfort when the going gets hotter.

Another option is a generously sized panoramic glass sunroof, while optional acoustic windscreen glazing contributes to extremely low noise levels in the cabin.  The two front side windows are also available with acoustic glazing as an option, ensuring that even less wind noise makes it into the interior.

The new BMW X3 can be locked and unlocked using the optional BMW Display Key found on the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series. The Display Key offers a series of additional features, keeping the driver informed of fuel levels and any service or maintenance work due, and letting them know that the windows and sunroof are closed. Plus, it can also be used to operate the optional auxiliary heating.

Dynamics.
With ideal 50:50 weight distribution, a finely honed chassis and xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive, linked to Dynamic Stability Control, the new X3 proudly shows off the handling characteristics for which BMW is renowned.

Furthermore, the standard Driving Experience Control switch lets the driver choose between various configurations – ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes (only on the 30d and M40i) – designed to make the vehicle more dynamic, more comfortable or more efficient to drive.

As far as the chassis technology is concerned, the third generation X3 maintains its winning formula of a double-joint spring strut axle at the front and a five-link rear axle.

To further improve dynamics, the rear bias of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system is increased. Intelligent AWD management allows adjustments to be made as the driving situation demands, while still maintaining maximum traction.

In basic specification, the new X3 has 18-inch light-alloy wheels (17-inch previously), while wheels up to 21-inches in diameter are available depending on the specification and engine variant.

The sports suspension that forms part of the M Sport package can also be ordered as a separate option. It offers firmer suspension and damping and beefs up the anti-roll bars. Alternatively, there is also the option of Variable Damper Control with electronically controlled dampers, which adapts the damper responses to the road surface and driving conditions.

At the same time, the driver can use the Driving Experience Control switch to vary the suspension characteristics as they please between the more comfortable and sportier ends of the scale.

The M Sport braking system featured on the M Sport model is available as an individual option, or as part of the M Sport Plus Package. The blue-painted aluminium four-piston fixed calipers at the front and amply proportioned brake discs have high levels of thermal resistance and deliver phenomenal stopping power despite their extremely low weight.

Variable sport steering is standard on the BMW X3 M40i and xDrive 30d, and can be specified as an option on the two litre diesel and petrol variants.

Engines and powertrains.
From launch, the X3 model line-up consists of the xDrive20d with four-cylinder diesel engine and the xDrive30d with a straight-six diesel unit.

These will soon be followed by the xDrive20i engine variant, and the range-topping petrol model, the BMW X3 M40i. All stem from the latest generation of BMW engines and operate even more efficiently than the models they replace. Further improvements have also been made to the eight-speed Steptronic transmission and the BMW xDrive intelligent all- wheel-drive system to add efficiency.

The cutting-edge BMW TwinPower Turbo technology at the heart of the petrol engine comprises TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. The diesel units, meanwhile, have a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry as well as a common-rail direct injection system generating injection pressures of up to 2,500 bar. Emission control is handled in both cases by BMW BluePerformance technology, comprising a particulate filter, oxidation and NOx absorption catalysts, plus an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection.

The 3.0-litre straight-six under the bonnet of the new xDrive30d delivers 265hp and peak torque has been increased by an impressive 60Nm to 620Nm between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm. Zero to 62 mph takes just 5.8 seconds and it can reach a top speed of 149 mph. It returns average fuel consumption of 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres (49.6 mpg imp), while CO2 emissions have been cut to an average figure of 149 g/km (a reduction of 7 g/km).

Finally, the xDrive20d has an unchanged power output of 190hp, 400Nm of torque and does zero to 62mph in 8.0 seconds, with a top speed of 132mph.

All the engine variants are equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, matched to the power unit’s specific performance characteristics.

From December 2017, a new four-cylinder petrol engine will be added to the BMW X3 portfolio. In addition to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the 2-litre power unit also boasts a weight-optimised design and a new engine encapsulation system for optimising acoustic characteristics and warm-up behavior.

The engine featured in the new BMW X3 xDrive20i delivers a maximum power output of 184hp and a peak torque of 290Nm. The car’s sporty characteristics are reflected in an acceleration of 8.3 seconds from zero to 62mph, an exceptionally economical average fuel consumption of 39.8 mpg and CO2 emission levels 163g/km.

The range-topping M40i is the first ever M Performance X3 model. It is powered by a new M Performance 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, which generates 360hp. Peak torque of 500Nm. It can sprint from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph.

BMW xDrive.
The BMW X3 is a capable off-road vehicle for its intended audience. The approach angle (25.7°) and departure angle (22.6°), together with a breakover angle of (19.4°), create plenty of margin for negotiating steep sections or crests. And with a fording depth of 500 millimetres, the X3 can tackle most obstacles with ease as well.

All of the models available at launch are equipped with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard. The system now features a lighter rear differential and a modified transfer case, which made its debut in the current BMW 7 Series, aiding efficiency and helping with the car’s 50:50 weight distribution.

Weight reduction was, indeed, a key factor in the development of the new X3, aiding efficiency and agility. Intelligent, lightweight design was integrated into all areas of its development and is in every component. As well as using more plastics and state-of the-art composites, the increased use of aluminium in the engine and suspension has reduced the weight of the relevant assemblies.

Aerodynamics.
The new X3 boasts a class-leading drag coefficient of Cd = 0.29. Reducing aerodynamic drag not only helps lower fuel consumption, but also has a beneficial effect on noise levels.

The X3 also features additional cladding that provides underbody sealing.  Other aerodynamic enhancements include a roof spoiler with aero edges at the sides and Active Air Stream, which regulates the flow of cooling air for the engine, brakes and air conditioning.

M40i – the first ever M Performance X3.
The new BMW X3 M40i is the first ever M Performance model in the X3 line-up and sets new standards with its sharp dynamics and emotional appeal. Developed with an insatiable appetite for revs and superb pulling power, the 3.0-litre M Performance six-cylinder in-line engine ensures the X3 M40i sits at the top end of the model range.

The X3 M40i also includes a number of model-specific features such as its M Performance exterior design package, which includes aerodynamic design elements finished in Cerium Grey. Other features include the flap-controlled M Sport exhaust system with Black Chrome tailpipe embellishers, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension with M Performance-specific tuning, variable sport steering and 20-inch cast light-alloy wheels. Further standard equipment highlights include Sensatec Dashboard and BMW Icon Adaptive LED Headlights with High-Beam Assistant.

Adaptive M Sport suspension is available as an option, with an even wider spread of comfort and sport set-ups on offer.

The eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission comes with Launch Control.  The transmission is a perfect match for the engine’s dynamic characteristics and can be operated using shift paddles on the steering wheel. In addition, its xDrive all-wheel-drive system has a far more pronounced rear bias than on the other model versions.

The Performance Control feature is integrated into the DSC system and, acting on the rear wheels, is configured to produce the dynamism, agility and traction for which M models have made their name.

Sports seats and “M40i” logos on the front door sill strips and instrument panel provide further visual clues as to the car’s performance capability.

BMW Connected Drive
The new X3 features the very latest in intuitive controls and driver assistance systems. In addition to the iDrive Controller fitted as standard, opting for the Professional Media system (standard with M Sport models and M40i) brings with it touchscreen control and optional gesture control – as seen on the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series.

The touchscreen central display as part of the Professional Media system provides a quick summary of the most relevant information. Option gesture control allows a number of  infotainment system and telephone functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures.

The vehicle can also be controlled using Voice Assistant, which offers the most advanced level of natural voice control currently available. This enables drivers to formulate their request in natural, everyday language instead of having to use set commands.

BMW Personal CoPilot: a comprehensive line-up of driver assistance systems.
When it comes to driver assistance and semi-automated driving, all the systems currently offered by BMW are available, such as Active Cruise Control (ACC), whose capabilities include braking the car to a halt in stop-and-go traffic and automatically pulling away again. The Steering and lane control assistant, Lane Change Assistant and Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection all form part of the optional Driving Assistant Plus safety package and work via active steering inputs.

Together with Priority warning, Wrong-way warning and Crossing traffic warning systems, these functions enhance comfort and safety, while also setting standards in the class.

The latest generation of head-up display allows the most important driving-related information to be projected directly into the driver’s field of vision. The HUD in the new X3 is unrivalled in its segment for graphics, resolution and display options. The Head-up display in the new X3 is 70 per cent larger than on the predecessor model.

Another unique feature that the X3 has over its competitors is the optional Remote 3D View function, which can be used to beam a three-dimensional view of the car’s immediate surroundings directly to a smartphone.

Meanwhile, the standard built-in 4G SIM card allows drivers of the new X3 to use Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic locating and accident severity detection. With the latest version of BMW Teleservice Accident Assistance, the vehicle now also detects low-speed collisions below the threshold for airbag deployment.

The driver receives a message in the iDrive display offering to contact the BMW Accident Assistance service directly. A push of a button is all it takes to obtain professional support from the BMW Accident Assistance team, who can also put the customer in touch with a BMW Service Partner if necessary.

The digital services from BMW Connected bring intelligent connectivity to the new X3 and connect the car with the user’s digital world. With the help of the Open Mobility Cloud platform, the digital services connect to the X3 via devices such as smartphones or smartwatches, resulting in seamless connectivity.

The selection of devices that can connect to the new X3 by means of BMW Connected now ranges from smartphones running iOS and Android operating systems via smart wearables like the Apple Watch and Samsung Gear (S2 and S3) to the Amazon Echo. Customers can use the Amazon Echo’s Alexa voice service to check the fuel level of their new X3, for instance, lock the vehicle via Remote Services or activate the ventilation function, all by voice control from the comfort of their home.

BMW Connected can be used to learn your normal routines or read your calendar appointments and then provide notifications on when to leave based on real time traffic information, even prior to leaving your home. When you get into your BMW the destination is seamlessly transferred to the iDrive screen and you can start guidance with one click.

BMW is the first carmaker to offer Microsoft Office 365 users a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details thanks to the car’s built-in Microsoft Exchange function. The options list likewise includes a WiFi hotspot offering a high-speed internet connection (LTE) for up to ten mobile devices. Apple CarPlay is also available offering wireless access to selected iOS apps.

As with all BMW models Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) with hazard preview warning is standard, providing accurate information on the flow of traffic along all major roads, across the UK and Europe. This service is included for the first three years free of charge. The service will be further enhanced in conjunction with the Professional Media system (standard for M Sport and M40i models) to feature On-street parking information for 9 UK cities at launch. On-street parking information provides predictions on the probability of a free parking space being available on streets in city centres, helping BMW drivers to find an available space close to their destination.

The 2017 BMW X3 is available from 11 November 2017, prices start from £37,980 OTR.

                                                        ENDS

The BMW Group
With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 31 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2015 was approximately € 9.22 billion on revenues amounting to € 92.18 billion. As of 31 December 2015, the BMW Group had a workforce of 122,244 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

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For further information please contact:
Gavin Ward                                           BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel:  01252 921261           

Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Lauren Prema                                       BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 07815 370746

Email: Lauren.Prema@bmw.co.uk   

Piers Scott                                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01252 921265            

Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01252 921256           

Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

BMW, one of the world’s most successful premium carmakers, also boasts an excellent position in the all-wheel-drive market, a segment it first entered 30 years ago. Around one in three BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW’s success in this segment has been driven not only by the ever-popular BMW X models but also by all-wheel-drive models based on the other model series, from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series. Across these model series, a large choice of AWD models is offered in a wide range of engine versions. At the same time, BMW continues to refine this technology and take it in new directions. By offering BMW xDrive in combination with a hybrid drive and with a front-wheel-drive platform, the company has repeatedly demonstrated its proficiency in the all-wheel-drive field, proficiency that will secure BMW’s position at the forefront of this sector well into the future. Today, BMW offers more than 110 models – of either transmission type – with BMW xDrive in 12 different model series, as well as the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 sports car and the compact BMW 225xe with electrified all-wheel drive.

The focus from day one: traction and dynamics.
BMW’s first foray into the all-wheel-drive market came with the unveiling of the BMW 325i “Allrad” at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1985. From the outside, the newcomer didn’t immediately reveal its inner qualities, so its performance when the journalists took it out on the test track was even more of an eye-opener. This very first BMW all-wheel-drive system not only improved traction away from surfaced roads and in adverse weather conditions, but also made for more dynamic handling through corners. “The new BMW is the new champion when it comes to handling,” was the verdict of the testers from German car magazine Auto Zeitung not long after the first unveiling.

Today, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system takes typical BMW driving dynamics to new levels. The current generation of this system is controlled by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) system, which ensures that xDrive always responds appropriately at the earliest possible moment, based on reliable sensing and monitoring of the current driving situation. The interventions may be performed either entirely by BMW xDrive, or by xDrive in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Dynamic Performance Control (DPC). The resulting fast and precise control of drive power distribution ensures typical BMW handling characteristics even under extremely dynamic cornering.

The all-wheel-drive system is biased towards the typical BMW rear-wheel-drive characteristics. That is to say, on the all-wheel-drive models a greater share of the drive power is sent to the rear wheels, even under normal driving conditions. This maintains the typical BMW precise steering response, with virtually no torque steer. For crisp turn-in and high tracking stability, the latest-generation BMW xDrive system starts increasing the amount of power sent to the rear wheels as soon as the vehicle enters a corner, further enhancing the driving pleasure for which BMW is a byword.

BMW all-wheel-drive technology: continuous evolution since 1985.
The full-time all-wheel-drive system featured on the BMW 325i “Allrad” of 1985 split the drive power in a ratio of 37 to 63 per cent between the front and rear wheels. In response to wheel speed differences, visco locks in the transfer case and rear differential were capable of providing a virtually rigid connection between the front and rear wheels, in order to improve traction and stability. This model’s name was soon changed to BMW 325iX, and from 1988 it was offered in a “touring” version as well (lower-case spelling up to and including the E46 series).

1991: BMW 525iX.
Three years on, BMW introduced an all-wheel-drive model in the BMW 5 Series too. For the first time, the power split was now electronically controlled. The newly developed system featured multi-plate clutches that allowed the default 36:64 front-to-rear power split to be varied seamlessly and automatically in line with driving conditions. Initially a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch was used at the rear axle, but this was later replaced by electronically controlled selective braking intervention. The system monitored the driving situation using wheel speed signals from the Anti-lock Braking System, supplemented by further information about brake status, engine speed and throttle valve position.

From the outset the all-wheel-drive system of the BMW 525iX was a class apart. The electronic control system delivered a very fast and precise response, resulting in safe, neutral handling characteristics even in difficult driving conditions, such as on wet roads or snow. In the BMW 5 Series, too, the first all-wheel-drive models were offered in both Sedan and touring versions.

1999: The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) opens a new chapter.
In the run-up to the new millennium, a highly innovative vehicle concept from BMW made its sensational debut. The BMW X5, the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), impressed customers with driving dynamics that were unmatched among other all-terrain vehicles of the time. The outstanding all-wheel-drive system played a big part in this. A planetary gear system split the drive power in a ratio of 38:62 per cent between the front and rear wheels, while electronic control systems such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensured the new BMW X5 was both sporty on the road and equipped to handle challenging conditions off the beaten track.

In the years following the successful launch of the SAV concept, there was no let-up in the fast pace of all-wheel-drive development at BMW. The next year, 2000, a model-specific version of the BMW X5’s all-wheel drive technology became available for the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

2003: BMW xDrive makes its debut in the BMW X3 and BMW X5.
Four years on from the debut of the BMW X5 in 1999, BMW kept up the momentum by launching the SAV concept in a further vehicle segment. The new BMW X3 was more compact than the BMW X5 and offered even more agile handling. It set new benchmarks and remained the only premium model in its class for years to come.

The newly developed BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which was introduced in the same year in both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, soon extended BMW’s lead in the AWD segment. Based on an extremely fast-acting electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, xDrive worked in tandem with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) to continuously adapt the drive power split to the current driving situation. In addition to wheel speed, for the first time the electronic control system also took into account Dynamic Stability Control data, for example about steering angle, accelerator position and lateral acceleration. This is what makes BMW xDrive the world’s first, and still only, “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which only react when at least one wheel is already spinning, xDrive is able to detect a risk of oversteer or understeer at the very first signs, and proactively corrects this by redirecting the flow of drive power.

In the years that followed, the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system was fitted not only on the X models but also on the xDrive versions of the BMW 3 and 5 Series Sedan and Touring models. By the time the second generation of the BMW X3 was introduced in 2010, more than 600,000 units of this series had already been sold worldwide. A little earlier, sales of the BMW X5 – which entered its second generation in 2006 – had topped the one million mark.

2008: SAC with Dynamic Performance Control and hybrid drive.
With the two Sports Activity Vehicles now firmly established in their respective segments, in 2007 BMW went on to present the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the brand-new BMW X6 elevated the typical dynamic character of the BMW X models to a new level of intensity. For the first time, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system was combined with Dynamic Performance Control (DPC), which varies the drive power split between the rear wheels when cornering to ensure unrivalled agility and stability, even under sudden throttle changes or on overrun. In 2009, the BMW Active Hybrid X6 demonstrated a further perfect pairing – between BMW xDrive and hybrid propulsion. Meanwhile, in the same year, BMW M GmbH added two very special models to its range of high-performance sports cars. With an M-tuned BMW xDrive system, including Dynamic Performance Control, the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M boasted performance that was previously unknown in the all-wheel-drive market.

2009 also saw the arrival of a new X model, the BMW X1. For many years to come, the BMW X1 was destined to remain the only vehicle of its kind in the premium compact segment. Its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, like that of the new BMW X3 (2010), was also combinable with Performance Control. This system selectively brakes the wheel on the inside of a turn while simultaneously increasing engine power, resulting in quick and precise turn-in to corners and taking the agile handling of both models to new levels.

BMW xDrive also available for other model series.
The steady advance of the BMW X models has been accompanied by an increase in the number of xDrive versions offered in the other BMW model series too. Designed to improve cornering agility and precision, BMW xDrive provides an enhanced driving experience and an optimal combination of dynamics and comfort. So it was only a matter of time before this intelligent drive technology made its debut in the BMW 7 Series as well, in 2009. In spring 2012, the first all-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible models were then offered in the sporty BMW 6 Series. BMW xDrive can also be specified on the current BMW 3 and 5 Series and, since 2013, on the Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe models of the new BMW 4 Series.

Driving progress ever forward.
BMW took things forward in the premium mid-sized segment with the launch of the BMW X4 in 2014. The new Sports Activity Coupe offers a unique blend of driving enjoyment, sophisticated style and contemporary practicality. It comes with BMW xDrive as standard and is available in a wide range of engine versions. In the same year, BMW also presented the third generation of the BMW X5, the second generation of the BMW X6, and M Sport versions of both models. BMW xDrive also made its debut in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This was a debut with a difference, being the first time BMW had combined its intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an all-new front-wheel-drive format.

With the BMW i8, unveiled in 2014, the BMW Group took a bold new step in new directions – which also extended to the all-wheel-drive system. This 2+2-seater sports model is powered by a highly advanced plug-in hybrid drive system that pairs an internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels with a high-performance electric motor driving the front wheels.

Focused on the future: BMW xDrive meets BMW eDrive.
BMW’s latest all-wheel-drive models bring technology advances that are firmly focused on the future of mobility. The BMW i8 was followed by the international launch of the first production plug-in hybrid model from the BMW core brand: the BMW X5 xDrive40e. Thanks to full-time BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive and eDrive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, this Sports Activity Vehicle mates thrilling and effortless sporty performance with outstanding efficiency. Intelligent hybrid power management synchronises the operation of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to maximise efficiency at all times, while also responding perfectly to the driver’s demands. The drive from the two power units is transferred to the road via the full-time BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

BMW 7 Series: Integral Active Steering combinable with BMW xDrive.
In September 2015, the sixth generation of the BMW 7 Series makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This high-end BMW luxury model pioneers groundbreaking innovations on all fronts, and will be available with BMW xDrive from its market launch in October. The new luxury sedan will also be the first model to allow intelligent all-wheel-drive to be combined with Integral Active Steering – that is to say with passively steering rear wheels.

Please find attached the complete press kit for download.

The new BMW X3 reinforces the model’s position as the class leader, with an unbeatable combination of driving dynamics, style, efficiency and practicality.

Thanks to BMW’s new generation of TwinPower Turbo diesel engines, excellent performance is available across the entire range, and yet both fuel economy and CO2 emissions have seen further improvements with remarkable results.  As an example of this engineering prowess the BMW X3 sDrive18d achieves a combined fuel consumption figure and CO2 emissions of 60.1mpg and 124g/km. Meanwhile, the opposite end of the range, the new xDrive35d can reach 152mph flat out and sprint to 62mph from rest in just 5.3 seconds, while still achieving over 47mpg.

The new BMW X3 can be identified by careful revisions to its expressive styling, new colours, and revisions to the interior design and trim options. All models now feature an increase in the amount of standard equipment, while customers can also choose a new xLine model to further personalise their X3.

Design and functionality

The new BMW X3 is immediately identifiable as a member of the successful BMW X family, and possesses a striking presence on the road. Aside from its length, which has grown by a single centimetre, it has the same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor.

However, the new BMW X3 features a host of design changes. At the front end, new twin circular headlights – available in optional full LED specification along with optional LED front fog lamps – combine with the prominent BMW kidney grille and its new surround. Both the front and rear bumpers have gained new contours, while the LED indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors. Four new exterior paint shades and five new light-alloy wheel designs broaden the scope for individualisation.

Inside, the new BMW X3 remains a compelling proposition, with its carefully selected materials, understated chrome applications, a centre console with optional automatic climate control system (with high-gloss black panel) and wood panelling with pearl chrome highlights. New cupholders, with a sliding cover, can be found in the centre console, and a leather steering wheel is amongst the standard equipment. Customers can also choose from four new upholstery colours and four new interior trims. The new BMW X3 continues to lead the way in its segment in terms of both interior spaciousness and rear load capacity, offering 550 litres with the seats up and 1,600 litres with the seats folded.

New xLine joins SE and M Sport variants

The new BMW X3 is available in SE, xLine and M Sport trim levels. SE models already have an extensive standard equipment list including Nevada leather upholstery, two-zone air conditioning, Cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear PDC, Drive Performance Control, Rain sensor and automatic headlights.  This has now been increased with the inclusion of the BMW Business navigation system, heated front seats and an automatic tailgate.

Moreover, an optional new SE Plus package adds Harman-kardon loudspeakers, Sun protection glass, Adaptive Headlights, High-beam Assistant and a one-inch increase in alloy wheel size for an additional £2,850.

The new xLine models can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, Satin Aluminium side cladding and bars in the air intakes, simulated underguards at the front and rear and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the new model features exclusive xLine leather upholstery, Dark Copper trim and a Sport leather steering wheel. Nevertheless, xLine variants command only a £1,500 price premium over the SE model.

For those customers looking to further boost the superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 there is the M Sport variant. These models feature M aerodynamic styling and BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim to maximise the car’s sporting presence, along with newly upgraded 19-inch light alloy wheels (previously 18-inch). Inside, there’s a BMW Individual rooflining in Anthracite, Sport seats, M Sport leather steering wheel and Aluminium Hexagon trim; technical highlights include Performance Control and M Sport suspension. M Sport models carry a further £1,500 price premium over the xLine variants.

An additional new package is also now available; M Sport Plus. This adds a new 20-inch M Sport bi-colour alloy wheel, Xenon headlights, Sun protection glass and Harman-kardon loudspeakers for £2,920.

A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Comfort Access with smart-opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment that much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily. The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats enables maximum flexibility. The optional auxiliary heating system guarantees a pleasant on-board climate at all times, even in wintry conditions.

Powertrain: cutting edge diesel engines with excellent economy and low emissions.

The new BMW X3 features an all-turbo-diesel line-up, using the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo technology to ensure outstanding performance combined with minimised fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. All of the engines meet EU6 regulations as standard.

The new-generation, all-aluminium, 2.0-litre diesel engines use common-rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors and work with increased injection pressure of 2,000bar. This pushes the output of the X3 xDrive20d from 184hp up to 190hp, with the maximum torque available also rising from 380 to 400Nm. The increase in performance cuts the zero to 62mph acceleration time by 0.4 seconds to just 8.1 seconds. At the same time, the fuel consumption of the X3 xDrive20d, when partnered with the eight-speed automatic gearbox, drops by 7.1 per cent compared to the outgoing model, and CO2 emissions are down to only 138g/km.

Furthermore, with a new optional 17-inch aero wheel and fourth-generation reduced-rolling-resistance tyres, CO2 emissions are cut by a further 7g/km. In this configuration, the X3 xDrive20d – in which the new 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine premieres – delivers class-leading figures: fuel consumption is just 56.5mpg with CO2 emissions of only 131g/km.

The new 150hp X3 sDrive18d, with rear-wheel-drive, a six-speed manual gearbox and reduced rolling resistance tyres, is even more frugal. The optional 17-inch aero alloy wheel records the lowest fuel consumption, just 60.1mpg, and CO2 emissions, at 124g/km, of any model in this market segment.

The range-topping variants of the new BMW X3 are powered by further developed versions of BMW’s much lauded 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line, turbo-diesel engine. The X3 xDrive30d delivers sparking performance, with zero to 62mph taking just 5.9 seconds, and yet achieves a combined fuel consumption of 47.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 156g/km. It develops 258hp with a peak torque of 560Nm.

The flagship model in the range is the X3 xDrive35d, offering an impressive 313hp and up to 630Nm of torque. Reaching 62mph from rest in just 5.3 seconds it has a combined fuel consumption of 47.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 157g/km – both reduced over the outgoing X3.

Two- or four-wheel drive.

The BMW X3 18d is available in sDrive form, while all other models come with xDrive as standard. The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivers optimum traction, with power sent where it is most needed, further improving on-road dynamics and driving safety. In models equipped with xDrive, a new xDrive status display (featuring three-dimensional graphics) in the Control Display keeps the driver informed of the car’s body roll and pitch, while a compass display is also shown in the instrument cluster.

Depending on the engine variant specified, the new BMW X3 can be ordered with a sporty, precise, six-speed manual gearbox or a highly effective eight-speed automatic (standard on the xDrive30d and xDrive35d), which also allows the driver to change gear using optional shift paddles on the steering wheel. An eight-speed Sport automatic gearbox - with shift paddles included as standard - is also available as an option.

BMW EfficientDynamics

The standard BMW EfficientDynamics package ensures that the driving pleasure available with the new BMW X3 goes hand-in-hand with low emissions and impressive economy. Engines with maximised fuel economy, intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamics combine with the latest-generation Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Shift Indicator and on-demand operation of ancillary units to deliver the lowest fuel consumption and emissions figures in the segment.

Moreover, the optional 17-inch aero wheel and fourth-generation reduced rolling resistance tyres shave another 7g/km off the CO2 emissions, and can be ordered for all models except the xDrive35d.

Safety, comfort and infotainment, with BMW ConnectedDrive

With the new BMW X3, BMW ConnectedDrive continues at the forefront of technology to link-up the driver, the car and the outside world. Among the outstanding new features is the latest, enhanced-capability generation of the Professional Multimedia navigation, complete with ECO PRO route guidance and an iDrive Touch Controller with integrated touchpad. The touchpad allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs such as a navigation destination, for example.

Another highlight is the full-colour Head-up Display, which projects all-important driving information and the assistance systems displays into the driver’s field of view.

Among the other systems available are the anti-dazzle High-beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, which includes features such as Lane Departure Warning and preventive pedestrian protection, plus Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. An aide to comfort and convenience, meanwhile, is the Surround-view camera systems, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle for when parking or manoeuvring. BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps also make mobility services and smartphone applications available inside the car via the central Control Display, and innovations such as Information Plus and RTTI (Real Time Traffic Information) system can also be accessed.

The BMW Emergency Call function is now fitted as standard. This system springs into action automatically (although it can be activated manually) as soon as the crash sensors report an airbag deployment. Emergency Call uses an integrated SIM card to send the car’s exact location along with all key information to the BMW call centre, enabling rapid and effective assistance at the scene of the accident.

The new BMW X3 goes on sale in June 2014, priced from £30,990 OTR for an X3 sDrive18d SE.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is the leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 28 production and assembly facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2013, the BMW Group sold around 1.963 million cars and 115,215 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2012 was €7.82 billion on revenues amounting to €76.85 billion. As of the 31st  December 2012, the BMW Group had a workforce of 105,876 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

Further information about the BMW Group can be found here:

Web: www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview
Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Executive

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01344 480829             Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Piers Scott                            General Manager, Product and Internal Communications

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Piers.Scott@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel: 01344 480109             Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax: 01344 480306

Media website: www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk

Customer website: www.bmw.co.uk

BMW is now offering a more accessible way into X3 ownership with the first rear-wheel-drive model in the range, the new BMW X3 sDrive18d.  Powered by a 143hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine, and available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, the new model teams effortless performance with better than ever emissions and fuel consumption.

Thanks to an extensive suite of EfficientDynamics technologies, the new BMW X3 sDrive18d emits just 135g/km of CO2 , and has a combined fuel consumption of 55.4mpg, making it the cleanest and most fuel-efficient model in the X3 range. These figures allow the sDrive18d to occupy VED Band E, with a Benefit in Kind (BIK) taxation rate of only 21 per cent.  This impressive fuel economy doesn’t impact on performance with the 2.0-litre diesel engine developing 143hp, with a peak torque of 360Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, resulting in the BMW X3 sDrive18d accelerating from zero to 62mph in 9.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 121mph.

At just £28,580 OTR for the SE model, the X3 sDrive18d is £2,890 less than the xDrive20d. With the exception of Hill Descent Control, reserved for four-wheel-drive models, the sDrive18d matches the standard equipment on the xDrive20d in every respect. SE models feature Auto Start-Stop, Drive Performance Control, 17-inch alloy wheels, Nevada Leather upholstery and BMW iDrive with a 6.5-inch colour screen.  M Sport models feature a host of sporty additions such as 18-inch alloy wheels, M aerodynamic bodystyling, Sport seats and Sport suspension, amongst other items.

The introduction of this new entry-level model sees the engine range for the BMW X3 expand to four diesels variants. The BMW X3 is a compelling proposition whichever powerplant is chosen thanks to its dynamic styling, luxurious quality and its sheer versatility. Folding down the rear seats increases boot space from 550 to 1,600 litres, while the BMW X3 sDrive18d can also be ordered as an option with a trailer coupling offering maximum towing capacity of 2,000kg.

Having redefined the sector with an unbeatable blend of driving dynamics, premium cabin design and the latest BMW ConnectedDrive technology, this latest addition to the model line-up builds on the BMW X3’s success, selling more than 74,000 units in the first half of 2012, a rise of 38.4 per cent on the same period last year.

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last seven years.

 www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWUK

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWUK

For further information please contact:

Krystyna Kozlowska            BMW Media Relations Assistant

Tel: 01344 480707             Email: Krystyna.Kozlowska@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                    01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market

Munich.Thanks to its segment-leading dynamic handling and versatility, the new BMW X3 has emerged as a highly successful model in the international car markets within a matter of months. The fact that it also assumes an exemplary role on the safety front has now been confirmed by Europe’s leading crash test programme. In the latest Euro NCAP crash test, the BMW X3 achieved the highest rating of 5 stars. The second-generation Sports Activity Vehicle earned its top marks in this challenging test for new vehicles thanks to its comprehensive range of standard safety equipment and effective occupant protection in various types of collision.

Achieving the best rating in the Euro NCAP crash test is proof of the very high level of the safety concept developed for the BMW X models. The new BMW X3 boasts an extremely stable body structure, and the forces exerted on the vehicle in a collision are deflected along precisely defined load paths and absorbed by generous deformation zones. Consequently, the passenger cell fulfils its function as a survival space even in serious collisions. Standard safety equipment inside the new BMW X3 includes front, side and curtain head airbags that protect both the driver and the passengers from injury. Also standard are belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters for the front seats and ISOFIX systems in the rear for attaching child seats, as well as the option of deactivating the front passenger airbag. The restraint systems are controlled by the central safety electronics, which take into account the type and severity of an accident to trigger the most effective protective features in each case.

In their evaluation of the crash test results, the assessors concluded that the new BMW X3 provides a high degree of occupant safety in all seats. Its stable passenger cell provides comprehensive injury protection in a front-end collision for both the driver and the passengers, regardless of a person’s size and the position of their seat. Here the Sports Activity Vehicle was awarded outstanding ratings for the protection of children aged around three years or 18 months in the relevant-sized child seats. For its side impact protection, the BMW X3 likewise achieved the maximum available points.

The new BMW X3 earned an outstanding rating for its active safety features as well. The Sports Activity Vehicle comes as standard with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC), which is linked to BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. Thanks to its wide-ranging functions, including Braking Assistant, Cornering Brake Control and the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Dynamic Stability Control ensures easily controllable and secure handling even in challenging driving situations. Further standard features on the BMW X3 include a Tyre Defect Indicator that warns the driver in good time of a loss of pressure in any individual wheel.

The test procedure of the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) ranks as one of the most rigorous tests worldwide to which new vehicles are subjected. The Euro NCAP test is a benchmark for crash safety recognised throughout Europe by governments, automobile clubs and consumer associations. The test profile includes, among other aspects, a frontal collision, a side-on crash and a side impact against a steel post. Since 2009, electronic safety features have also been taken into account, along with additional injury risks in a wide range of collisions.

Last year the Munich premium automobile manufacturer was distinguished by the safety testing institute Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) with a special award for the BMW Assist Advanced eCall, the advanced emergency call system with automatic localisation and accident severity detection which is also available for the BMW X3.

For questions please contact:

Andreas Lampka, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49-89-382-23662, Fax:  +49-89-382 20626

Michael Rebstock, Head of Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Phone: +49-89-382-20470, Fax +49-89-382 20626

Media Website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

During the financial year 2010, the BMW Group sold 1.46 million cars and more than 110,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

The new BMW X3 has raised the bar in the premium sports activity market this year

with the introduction of what is the lowest-emission four-wheel-drive model in the

sector. This new Sports Activity Vehicle is also the first in the UK to come equipped

with an Auto Start-Stop system combined with an automatic transmission. With

unparalleled agility, a significantly upgraded cabin and a raft of sector-first technology,

the new BMW X3 will set a new benchmark in the Sports Activity Vehicle market.

With a class-leading diesel engine, numerous chassis configurations courtesy of

Variable Damper Control, as well as UK specific equipment packages and innovations

such as Head-up Display and online connectivity, thanks to ConnectedDrive, the new

BMW X3 offers customers the perfect sporty four-wheel-drive vehicle, whatever their

activity.

Attached please find additional pictures of the new BMW X3.

This is a 1:1 copy of the original press pack issued by BMW headquarters in MUnich. No adaptionas have been made to cater for the UK market.

The new BMW X3 is the successor to a top seller and will add a new dimension to the pleasure of driving a Sports Activity Vehicle of this class. More significantly than ever, it establishes benchmarks in driving dynamics, agility and efficiency, whilst at the same time convincing through noticeably increased driving comfort. The design of the new BMW X3 combines the typical BMW X character with a dynamically stretched silhouette. Thanks to a generous amount of space and a high degree of variability in the interior, it is possible to adapt travel comfort as well as transportation capacities to suit each personal requirement. Four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive not only optimises traction, but has also been specifically harmonised to ensure enhanced driving dynamics. The new BMW X3 offers fascinating qualities with uncompromising diversity, combining both driving pleasure and efficiency with comfort and functionality, sportiness and elegance.

The four-cylinder diesel in the new BMW X3 xDrive20d has a maximum output of 135 kW/184 bhp. Power output has been increased by 5 kW compared to its predecessor. At the same time, average consumption in the EU test cycle has been reduced by 14 percent to a mere 5.6 litres/100 km. The new BMW X3 xDrive35i is powered by a straight-six petrol engine with a maximum output of 225 kW/306 bhp. This makes it by far the sportiest model within its competitive environment.

The Design: Urban elegance, dynamically flowing lines and the characteristic features of a BMW X model.

The body design of the new BMW X3 conveys urban elegance and versatile agility. The combination of a flat front end and a high rear end produces, when viewed from the side, a dynamically formed wedge shape, indicating the vehicle’s sporting characteristics. The convex and concave surfaces are accentuated by distinctive lines.

At the front end of the new BMW X3, the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille, a large headlight assembly, a powerful-looking front apron and the distinctively contoured bonnet signalise self-assured presence. Together with the round headlights, the fog lamps, which are positioned far towards the outside, form the light source arrangement that is characteristic of BMW X 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. These include the powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and the instrument panel. The dynamic appearance of the silhouette is additionally accentuated by three characteristic lines.

The rear end is characterised by horizontal lines, underlining the new BMW X3’s robust character. Accurately applied lines and expressively modelled surfaces create attractive light and shadow effects. The taillights have a distinctive T shape that is characteristic of the BMW X3.

Interior: Premium ambience, intelligent functionality.

A generous and variable 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. 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 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.

Both up front and at the rear the new BMW X3 has a multitude of large storage compartments, trays and cup holders. The three rear seats offer outstanding comfort for travelling long distances. With a volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres, the luggage compartment of the new BMW X3 is the best in its segment. At the same time, the variability with which available space can be adapted to suit each personal requirement, is also unrivalled. The rear seat backrest can be split at a ratio of 40 : 20 : 40 and the three segments can be folded down either individually or together.

Engine range: Four-cylinder diesel and straight six-cylinder petrol engine of the latest generation.

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 four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct injection, delivering a maximum power output of 135 kW/184 at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The engine develops sufficient power to allow the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, reaching top speed at 210 km/h. With an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100 km, the BMW X3 xDrive20d establishes a new benchmark for efficiency in this vehicle segment (CO2 emission level: 149 g/km in conjunction with manual gearbox, 147 g/km in conjunction with automatic gearbox).

Spontaneous response, high-revving characteristics, excellent running smoothness and outstanding efficiency characterise the power unit featured in the BMW X3 xDrive35i. The 3.0-litre straight-six engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo, direct petrol injection and VALVETRONIC generates a maximum output of 225 kW/306 bhp at 5,800 rpm. Maximum torque of 400 Nm is available between 1,200 and 5,000 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km takes a mere 5.7 seconds. Top speed is 245 km/h. The BMW X3 xDrive35i offers not only the most dynamic driving characteristics, but also by far the most favourable fuel consumption and emission levels within the competitive environment of its engine class. Average consumption in the EU test cycle is 8.8 litres/100 km (CO2 emission level: 204 g/km).

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, also unique within the competitive environment, is available for the BMW X3 xDrive20d as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox. 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. The Auto Start Stop function is also a standard feature in the X3 xDrive20d with manual gearbox. The car is additionally equipped with a gear shift indicator. Furthermore, the equipment featured in all model variants, which include brake energy regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, demand-controlled ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and tyres with reduced rolling resistance contribute towards lowering fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.

Newly developed suspension, optimised xDrive and unique options for made-to-measure dynamics and comfort.

The new BMW X3 comes with permanent four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive as standard. Its electronic control unit, which is interlinked with the DSC Dynamic Stability Control, counteracts at an early stage any tendency to oversteer or understeer through fast and precise response.
By means of innovative tuning designed to enhance driving dynamics, the intelligent four-wheel drive technology optimises not only traction, but, above all, handling in bends. Optional Performance Control enhances the BMW X3’s agile handling even further.

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 widened track (92 mm wider than that of the predecessor) the ideal prerequisites for optimising agility and driving comfort to an equal degree. EPS Electric Power Steering including the Servotronic function for speed-dependent power steering is incorporated in all versions of the BMW X3 model for the first time and contributes significantly to precise handling. The optional variable sports steering reduces the degree of steering movement necessary to turn the front wheels and provides BMW typical directional stability when the vehicle is being driven straight ahead.

A further option 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.

Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X3 is also provided with an extremely torsion-resistant body, precisely defined support structures and large deformation zones. The safety equipment package comprises front and pelvic thorax airbags, side curtain head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts on all seats, belt force limiters, belt latch tensioners and crash-active front headrests as well as ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear compartment.

Innovative options and functions from BMW ConnectedDrive.

The choice of optional features ranges from automatic climate control with
2-zone control, a panorama sunroof, high-end audio equipment and the navigation system Professional with hard-disk storage, to automatic rear lid operation and a tow coupling with electronically pivoting ball head. The choice of driver assistance systems offered by BMW ConnectedDrive is unique in the segment. The new BMW X3 can be equipped, inter alia, with the systems Head-up Display, Adaptive Cornering Headlights, High-beam Assistant and reversing camera including Top View. In addition, BMW ConnectedDrive enables unrestricted use of the Internet within the vehicle, a comprehensive integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as the use of web-based services for navigation and entertainment functions.

Production at the BMW Spartanburg plant.

The new BMW X3 is produced at the BMW Spartanburg plant in accordance with stringent BMW Group quality standards. With the production of the BMW X5 and BMW X6 models, the location, which is based in the US Federal State of South Carolina, has become the competence centre for BMW X models within the BMW Group’s worldwide production network. Thanks to comprehensive extension measures, the preconditions for integrating the new BMW X3 into the production process have also been established.

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. The BMW Group favoured a smooth transition when carrying out the generation change of the bestseller BMW X3. The end of production of the first generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) was celebrated at the plant of the Austrian production partner Magna Steyr in Graz yesterday. Production of the new BMW X3, which will be launched on the German market on 20 November 2010, will begin today at the BMW Spartanburg plant in the US state of South Carolina. The new BMW X3 is a resolute continuation of the formula for success of the first SAV in its class. With further enhanced agility, noticeably optimised driving comfort, more space than any of its competitors and innovative equipment options, it offers the ideal prerequisites to inherit the position of its predecessor as the benchmark in the segment and to strengthen it further.

Within the last 7 years, the first-generation BMW X3 has written an extraordinary success story. In Graz alone, 605,498 units of the agile all-rounder came off the assembly line during this period. Together with the vehicles produced within the framework of the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly in Russia, Egypt and Thailand, the total figure adds up to 614,824 units. The last vehicle of the first model generation, a Vermilion red metallic BMW X3 xDrive35d, will remain with the Magna Steyr company, where it will be used in future as an executive car. A BMW X3 xDrive20d with full emergency vehicle specifications that had left the assembly line shortly before, will be donated by the BMW Group to a non-profit making organisation. For many years now, the BMW X3 has proved itself to be an ideal emergency vehicle for police and doctors. At the end of its model life, yet another vehicle will now take on this important task in the service of the general public.

As the first and, for some time, the only premium vehicle of its kind, the BMW X3 launched in 2004 and boasting intelligent four-wheel drive BMW xDrive, outstanding handling characteristics and a variable interior, gave reason for spontaneous enthusiasm and a lasting positive response on the international automotive markets. As a result, the concept of establishing benchmarks in the field of driving dynamics within the competitive environment of all-terrain vehicles, which had previously already been successfully pursued in the case of the BMW X5 in a higher segment, was endorsed yet again.

Driving pleasure, premium quality and, in addition, outstanding efficiency helped the BMW X3 become extremely popular and achieve excellent results in independent surveys. Experts have honoured the BMW X3 with several awards for outstanding safety, customer satisfaction, reliability and stable value. These included top rankings in the “Customer Satisfaction Index” (CSI) issued by the J.D. Power market research institute, as well as in the breakdown statistics kept by the Allgemeine Deutsche Automobilclub (ADAC). Twice in succession, the BMW X3 was voted both “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year” and “Off Road Vehicle of the Year” respectively by readers of the magazines “Auto Bild Allrad“ and “Off Road”.

The segment established by the first-generation BMW X3 is now also served by other premium vehicle manufacturers. The new BMW X3 faces up to intensified competition with consistently optimised qualities in all relevant disciplines. The engines on offer for this Sports Activity Vehicle boast the best performance and, thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics, the most favourable fuel consumption and emission levels as well. The vehicle’s entirely newly developed suspension technology facilitates a clear advantage both in terms of agility and driving comfort. With a loading capacity that can be increased from 550 to 1,600 litres and 40 : 20 : 40 split-folding rear seat backrests, the new BMW X3 offers the largest amount of space and at the same time the highest level of variability in its segment. Moreover, there is a choice of innovative equipment features, driver assistance systems and mobility services by BMW ConnectedDrive that is unique within the competitive environment. For example, the new BMW X3 is the only model in its class to offer the options of a Head-Up Display and Internet access inside the vehicle.

With the model change, the production of the BMW X3 is being relocated to the BMW Spartanburg plant, a facility that has become the expertise centre for BMW X models. So far, the US American location of the BMW Group’s global production network has produced BMW X5 and BMW X6 models. Thanks to substantial extension work and with an investment of around $750 million, the prerequisites for the production of the new BMW X3 and the associated increase in the annual production capacity to around 200,000 vehicles have been created at Spartanburg.

The collaboration between the BMW Group and Magna Steyr also lives on within the framework of the new production structures. In the meantime, production of the MINI Countryman has started in Graz. The fourth model of the brand is not only the first MINI to feature four doors and a large tailgate, but can for the first time also be fitted with four-wheel drive technology. In this way, the Austrian production partner’s expertise in the field of all-terrain vehicles, which has already been demonstrated in the case of the BMW X3, continues to be comprehensively utilised.

The new BMW X3 is set to raise the bar in the premium sports activity market this year when the latest model goes on sale in the UK. With what will be the lowest-emission four-wheel drive model in the sector, the first to have start-stop with auto transmission, unparalleled agility, significantly upgraded cabin and a raft of sector-first technology, the new BMW X3 will set a new benchmark.

With a class-leading diesel engine, numerous chassis configurations courtesy of Variable Damper Control, as well as UK specific equipment packages and innovations such as Head-up Display and online connectivity, thanks to ConnectedDrive, the new BMW X3 offers customers the perfect sporty four-wheel drive vehicle, whatever their activity.

The new BMW X3 combines BMW’s X character with a dynamically stretched silhouette to produce an elegant, durable and sporting car.  The typically characteristic upright kidney grille and triangular headlight arrangement of BMW X models is reflected in the front end of the X3 ensuring a powerful presence, further emphasised by the flared wheelarches and short wheelbase.  Meanwhile the horizontal rear lines on the rear emphasise the X3’s robust character.

High-grade materials and intelligent packaging are integral to the new BMW X3’s interior.  As always, the asymmetrical instrument panel and centre console are orientated towards the driver, while the latest generation iDrive, with 6.5-inch screen as standard, ensures all infotainment capabilities are easily accessible.  The 8.8-inch high-resolution screen of the navigation system in the Professional Multimedia package featured in the new BMW X3 is the largest on-board monitor in its segment.   

Throughout the cabin are a large number of storage compartments, trays and cup holders. The three rear seats offer outstanding comfort for travelling long distances and significantly more leg and elbow room compared to its predecessor.

With a volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres, the luggage compartment of the new BMW X3 is also one of the best in its segment. But it is not just about pure volume – useable space is essential to the SAV customer, and the new BMW X3 has an adaptable interior which can be changed to suit personal requirements.

The rear seat backrests can be split 60:40 as standard or as an option 40:20:40 where the three segments can be folded down either individually or together. In this way it is possible to adapt the luggage compartment according to requirements.

Drivetrain

Model/Power Hp/Torque   Nm/Zero – 62mph Seconds/Top Speed Mph/Combined
Mpg/CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW X3 xDrive20d/184/380/8.5/131/50.4/149 (147)

Offering unrivalled levels of performance and efficiency is BMW’s philosophy no matter what type of car and this concept has been applied to the Sports Activity Vehicle sector too.  As a result, the new BMW X3 xDrive20d now offers better performance and higher efficiency than any of its rivals.

Powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and common rail direct injection, it delivers a maximum power output of 184hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm.  This results in a zero-62mph time of 8.5 seconds, reaching top speed of 130mph, yet CO2 emissions for this four-wheel drive vehicle are only 149g/km, with average fuel consumption of 50.4 mpg.

Other engines will be launched at a later date, but in the UK the BMW X3 xDrive20d will account for approximately 80 per cent of all sales when all other engines have been introduced.

The new BMW X3 xDrive20d with automatic transmission achieves identical acceleration, top speed and fuel consumption, with a CO2emission level of 147g/km.  This reduction in emissions is thanks to the X3 being the first BMW model in the UK to team Auto Start-Stop technology with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission.  The Auto Start Stop function also features as standard on the manual transmission.

The drivers’ Sports Activity Vehicle
The first generation BMW X3 set the bar when it came to the driving dynamics of this type of vehicle, and the second generation builds on that exceptional agility with newly conceived suspension technology, electronically controlled driver assistance and advanced four-wheel drive.

For drivers who want to personalise the feel of their BMW X3, Variable Damper Control is available for the first time on this model. The electronically controlled dampers adapt to road surface conditions and the style of driving, while the driver is able to influence the action of the dampers by means of the Drive Dynamic Control system.

This function enables the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Sport+ modes using a button on the centre console. As well as damping behaviour, it can adjust the character of the accelerator, engine response, power steering weight, DSC response thresholds and – depending on desired options – the shifting dynamics of the automatic transmission.

Electric Power Steering, is incorporated in the BMW X3 for the first time, allowing precise handling and increased efficiency.  Variable sports steering is also available for the first time as an option, and reduces the degree of steering movement necessary to turn the front wheels in various conditions including parking, cornering and swerving manoeuvres.

As standard, the new BMW X3 comes with xDrive permanent four-wheel drive technology, an electronically controlled system that ensures variable distribution of drive to the front and rear axles.  Linked to DSC, Dynamic Stability Control, xDrive can counteract oversteer or understeer at an extremely early stage, and help to control the car through bends by sending increased drive to the rear wheels while, if needed, braking the inside rear wheel to increase the car’s mid-bend agility and traction.

The commitment to offering the most complete driving on and off-road experience in the sector means the new BMW X3 also features completely redeveloped suspension technology with a double-joint spring-strut axle at the front and a multi-link rear axle.

Pricing and specification
The new BMW X3 xDrive20d SE is even better value than its predecessor. At £30,490 OTR, it is actually £115 less than the outgoing model, yet is equipped as standard with Nevada leather upholstery, two-zone air conditioning, iDrive controller and colour display.

The new BMW X3 can be specified with a range of innovative features. The choice of options range from a panoramic sunroof, high-end audio equipment and the Professional Multimedia package with hard-disk storage, to automatic boot lid operation and a tow coupling with electronically pivoting ball head.

The choice of systems offered under the BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance banner is also unique in the segment, and include Head-up Display, Adaptive Headlights, High-beam Assistant and reversing camera including Top View, giving a 360 degree panoramic view for the driver.

Following extensive research of buying habits of previous BMW X3 buyers, the new generation model can be specified with several packages that bring together the most popular options at cost-effective prices.  These packages include:

Business Advanced Media package - £2,165

Business navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation with USB interface, voice control and telematics, and BMW Assist.

Professional Multimedia Media package - £2,465

Professional navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation with USB interface, voice control and telematics, and BMW Assist.

Visibility package - £1,490

Xenon headlights, Headlight wash, Adaptive headlights, High-beam assistant and dimming and folding exterior mirrors.

Cold weather package - £790

Steering wheel heating, front and rear seat heating, and through loading with 40:20:40 seat split.

Ends

1. Fresh Power for the Achiever. The new BMW X3. (Short Version) 2. The Concept: Fascinating Combination of Agility and Versatility. 3. Design: Unmistakable, Striking, Dynamic. 4. Interior: Versatile, Practical, Refined. 5. Power Units: Maximum Muscle, Enormous Efficiency. 6. Manual Gearbox and Automatic Transmission: Quick and Comfortable. 7. All-Wheel Drive: Spreading out Power the Intelligent Way. 8. Chassis and Suspension: Stable Foundation, Innovative Control Systems. 9. Bodyshell and Safety: Aerodynamic Outside, Robust Inside. 10. Equipment: Attractive Options for Supreme Demands. 11. Production: Strong Partnership for Great Quality. 12. Specifications and Output Diagrams. 13. Exterior and Interior Dimensions.

1. Fresh Power for the Achiever. The new BMW X3. (Short Version)

• Six-cylinder petrol engines with magnesium/aluminium crankcase, 160 kW/218
hp and, respectively, 200 kW/272 hp maximum output.
• All-aluminium six-cylinder diesel engines with common-rail fuel injection
and piezo injectors.
• Six-cylinder top-of-the-range diesel with VTT and 210 kW/286 hp maximum
output.
• Six-speed automatic transmission with new dynamic gearshift.
• Further enhanced: Integrated Chassis Management.
• DSC Dynamic Stability Control with additional functions.
• Exterior design expressing agility and quality all in one.
• Functional and modern: sophisticated ambience inside the car.

Offering a unique combination of agility and versatility, the new BMW X3 is
continuing its predecessor's unique story of success. Powerful new engines,
fresh design and a sophisticated interior make BMW's Sports Activity Vehicle
(SAV) already widely lauded for its outstanding agility and driving dynamics
even more attractive than before.

With its wide range of features and new technologies, the new BMW X3 has
everything it takes to further expand its exceptional position as a premium
offer in its segment. Specific modifications at the front, rear and side give
the new BMW X3 even more dynamic character, while the interior is dominated by
particularly sophisticated materials, flowing lines, and stylish colour schemes.

Additional driving dynamics on country roads, in city traffic and off the
beaten track is guaranteed by new power units delivering their muscle smoothly
to the road by way of BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel drive with variable power
distribution.

The top engine featured in the new BMW X3 is the second generation of the
world's most sporting and dynamic diesel: The newly developed 3.0-litre
straight-six featured in the BMW X3 3.0sd boasts Variable Twin Turbo (VTT)
technology for maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp (10 kW/14 hp more than on the
first-generation VTT diesel) and peak torque of 580 Newton-metres or 427 lb-ft
(+ 20Nm).

The new BMW X3 also features BMW's new generation of straight-six petrol
engines displacing 3.0 and, respectively, 2.5 litres. Boasting a composite
magnesium/aluminium crankcase, VALVETRONIC and bi-VANOS, these engines deliver
maximum output of 200 kW/272 hp (+ 30 kW/41 hp over the previous engine) and,
respectively, 160 kW/218 hp (+ 19 kW/26 hp).

Even more effective and faster interaction of BMW's intelligent xDrive
all-wheel drive with DSC Dynamic Stability Control and engine management is
ensured on all engine variants by Integrated Chassis Managements (ICM) with its
optimised computer technology.

Dynamic performance borne out by powerful design.
New design and body features at the front and rear of the BMW X3 provide an
even more intense expression of the vehicle's striking and dynamic looks. Both
front and rear, the bumpers are clearly separated into two levels and are
finished largely in body colour, again emphasising the sophisticated and
sporting but elegant appearance of the new BMW X3. Only the protection elements
particularly exposed to impacts are made of robust plastic.

A particular feature of all BMW X models is their so-called "six-eye face" -
and on the new BMW X3 this very special face is characterised by new dual
circular headlights with their light sources and reflectors housed beneath a
clear glass cover. This look is further enhanced by foglamps arranged on one
line extending diagonally to the outside from the main headlights to the
wheels. Again, this particular configuration supports the impression of a
dynamic vehicle crouching powerfully on the road, and is further enhanced by
the painted front air dam beneath the outer bumper.

Having grown in size and featuring grid rods varying in colour depending on the
model variant, the BMW kidney grille is a particularly outstanding highlight
bound to catch the eye.

New rear light clusters with clear glass covers on LED-fed horizontal light
rods ensure powerful and striking night design, while also giving the new BMW
X3 a clear sign of distinction during the day. Another characteristic factor is
the horizontal lines stretching out in a dominating look from the tailgate all
the way down to the bumper and accentuating the powerful stance of the new BMW
X3 also from this angle.

Viewed from the side, the BMW X3 stands out clearly through its discreet wedge
shape further enhanced by the lower character line. This specific contour line
is taken up in the lower side area of the front and rear air dams, giving
further emphasis to the sleek, stretched and dynamic look of the vehicle.

Top-quality materials and refined design in the interior.
The harmonious lines of the new BMW X3 extend smoothly into and within the
interior, with a gentle flow of shapes and transitions from one section to the
other. The high level of quality applied in choosing and finishing all
materials comes out clearly and tangibly in all details, superior function and
refined design providing a perfect match.

The instrument panel is characterised above all by new decorative trim taking
up the colour and materials of the trim on the centre console. Galvanised metal
on the door handles and controls, exclusive leather and cloth options,
harmonious colour schemes and patterns in the roof lining, as well as
high-quality synthetic surfaces with a classy grain finish reflect the
character of the interior both sophisticated and elegant all in one.

New three-spoke steering wheels and generous storage boxes integrated in the
door linings further enhance the supreme impression of high quality. A choice
of no less than four levels of equipment, ten paintwork colours, six interior
colours, and five trim options gives the customer absolute freedom in
personalising his or her new BMW X3. And last but not least, the material
chosen for the seat upholstery is also used consistently on the centre console,
the armrests and in the door linings.

Premiere: a diesel right at the top.
The new BMW X3 is available with a choice of no less than three petrol and
three diesel engines. In all cases, these new six-cylinders combine more power
with greater torque, reduced weight, and enhanced efficiency.

The entry-level power unit in both petrol and diesel guise is a four-cylinder,
with the particular performance characteristics of all engine variants making a
significant contribution to the agile driving behaviour of BMW's very special
SAV.

Yet a further, truly unique feature in engine technology is that the BMW X3 is
the first BMW to feature a diesel power unit right at the top of the engine
range, with BMW's new 3.0-litre straight-six diesel enhanced by Variable Twin
Turbo (VTT) technology making its debut in the BMW X3 3.0sd.

Unique torque and output thanks to Variable Twin Turbo.
The new BMW X3 3.0sd is powered by the most sporting and dynamic six-cylinder
diesel ever available in a production car: The second generation of BMW's
top-end diesel now developing maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp features Variable
Twin Turbo (VTT) technology introduced by BMW in 2004 as the world's first car
maker in the BMW 535d.

Also referred to as two-stage turbocharging, this technology incorporates both
a small turbocharger cutting in at lower engine speeds and an additional
turbocharger activated for growing power and performance requirements. Maximum
torque now raised to an even more significant 580 Nm or 427 lb-ft is maintained
consistently from 1,750-2,250 rpm.

This supreme power and muscle also comes out clearly in the performance of the
new BMW X3 3.0sd: Acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h comes in just
6.6 seconds, top speed is a most significant 240 km/h or 149 mph. Average fuel
consumption in the EU test cycle is nevertheless a very economical 8.7 litres
of diesel fuel for 100 kilometres, equal to 32.5 mpg Imp. And last but not
least, particle filters and an oxidation catalyst ensure highly effective
emission management and control at all times.

New 3.0-litre diesel engines: powerful and light.
One of the reasons for the outstanding efficiency of BMW's top-end diesel is
the reduction in weight by 25 kilos and introduction of the latest generation
of common-rail direct fuel injection complete with piezo injectors.

These two factors also benefit the 3.0-litre straight-six diesel in the BMW X3
3.0d likewise featuring an all-aluminium crankcase and piezo injectors in the
fuel injection system. The increase in injection pressure to 1,600 bar ensures
a particularly fast and efficient charge effect in the combustion chambers, and
the combination of this superior technology with a turbocharger featuring
variable turbine geometry (VTG) provides maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp and
peak torque of 500 Nm or 369 lb-ft.

The new BMW X3 3.0d accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed
of 210 km/h or 130 mph. Special V-class tyres available as an option from the
factory allow an even higher top speed of 220 km/h or 136 mph, for even greater
superiority on fast routes.

Returning average fuel consumption in the EU cycle of 7.9 litres diesel/100
kilometres (equal to 35.8 mpg Imp), the new BMW X3 3.0d also offers maximum
efficiency. And it almost goes without saying that this model likewise comes as
standard with a particulates filter fitted close to the engine.

The new BMW X3 2.0d is an even more outstanding example of superior economy:
Featuring a four-cylinder power unit with common-rail fuel injection,
this model's maximum output is 110 kW/150 hp, with torque peaking at 330 Nm or
243 lb-ft all the way from 2,000-2,500 rpm. Acceleration to 100 km/h is in 10.2
seconds, and the top speed of the BMW X3 2.0d is 198 km/h or 123 mph, on
average fuel consumption of just 7.2 litres/100 kilometres or 39.2 mpg Imp.
Here again, a particulates filter comes as standard on BMW's four-cylinder
diesel.

Petrol engines: more power, less weight.
The particularly light, fast-revving and efficient straight-six petrol engines
in the new BMW X3 comes in two displacement and performance levels. Both
engines boast a composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase, variable VALVETRONIC
valve control, and a coolant pump controlled and masterminded on demand. And
weighing just 165 kilos or 364 lb, these out¬standing power units also
contribute to the well-balanced distribution of axle loads and, accordingly, to
the excellent agility and driving dynamics of the BMW X3.

The new BMW X3 3.0si features a 3.0-litre six-cylinder developing maximum
output of 200 kW/272 hp and peak torque of 315 Nm or 232 lb-ft. Acceleration
from 0-100 km/h comes in just 7.2 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h or 130
mph on standard tyres and an even more impressive 232 km/h or 144 mph on
optional V-class tyres available from the factory.

Delivering average fuel consumption in the EU cycle of 10.1 litres/100 km or
28.0 mpg Imp, the BMW X3 3.0si offers a level of economy quite exemplary in
this performance category.

The 2.5-litre six-cylinder in the BMW X3 2.5si develops maximum output of 160
kW/218 hp and peak torque of 250 Nm or 184 lb-ft. The result is acceleration to
100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, and a top speed of 210 km/h or 130 mph (221 km/h or
137 mph on V-class tyres). Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle, in turn,
is 9.9 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 28.5 mpg Imp.

The 2.0-litre power unit featured in the new BMW X3 2.0i is the only
four-cylinder in the world to feature VALVETRONIC variable valve control. Two
other equally outstanding features are bi-VANOS variable camshaft management
and BMW's DISA variable intake manifold.

Benefiting from these technologies, the BMW X3 2.0i offers an exceptionally
high standard of performance, smoothness and efficiency for a four-cylinder.
Acceleration to 100 km/h, in turn, comes in 11.5 seconds, and the top speed of
the new BMW X3 2.0i is 198 km/h or 123 mph. And average fuel consumption in the
EU cycle, finally, is 9.3 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 30.4 mpg Imp.

New automatic transmission for superior dynamics, efficiency,
and comfort.
With the exception of the BMW X3 3.0sd, all versions of BMW's new SAV come as
standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic transmission complete
with Steptronic available as an option also features six gears for extra
convenience.

Automatic transmission is standard on the new top model in BMW's SAV model
series, the BMW X3 3.0sd, where an automatic transmission developed especially
to interact with an extra-powerful engine ensures appropriate choice of the
right driving gear at all times. Hence, the new six-speed auto¬matic
transmission handles this task at incomparable speed and with outstanding
precision and efficiency.

New converter technology and particularly powerful software serve to reduce
reaction and gearshift times compared with a conventional automatic
transmission by up to 50 per cent. And thanks to the direct gear search
function, even the process of skipping one or several gears when shifting down
does not require any additional time.

Through its exceptionally dynamic shifting process and direct interaction with
the engine, the new six-speed automatic transmission brings out all the
sporting and active qualities of the new BMW X3 3.0sd to a truly unprecedented
level. And at the same time it is simply perfect for comfortable, relaxed and
efficient cruising at low engine speeds.

Permanent all-wheel drive the intelligent way: BMW xDrive.
The new BMW X3 owes its all-round potential largely to BMW's permanent,
intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensuring fully variable front-to-rear
power distribution through its exceptionally fast and precise reaction. Via a
power divider complete with an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch,
BMW xDrive feeds the power of the engine precisely to where it can be used best
and with maximum effect. The result is not only maximum traction on difficult
terrain, but also superior driving dynamics, with the system counteracting any
over- or understeer in bends right from the start. The differential lock
function, in turn, is ensured by the brakes intervening on any of the wheels
threatening to spin.

Power distribution 40 : 60 in normal driving situations.
In normal driving situations engine power is divided 40 : 60 front-to-rear for
optimum smoothness and performance. And then xDrive responds immediately to any
change in surface conditions or driving dynamics by modifying the ratio of
power distribution accordingly. On surfaces varying extremely in their
frictional coefficient from front-to-rear, for example, BMW xDrive is able to
re-direct almost the entire drive power of the engine instantaneously to one
single axle.

Another advantage of the system is its ability to counteract oversteer in fast
bends by closing the multiple-plate clutch tighter and feeding additional power
to the front wheels in the interest of optimum driving stability.

Enhanced to an even higher standard: Integrated Chassis Management.
To ensure such fast and precise reaction, xDrive all-wheel drive, DSC Dynamic
Stability Control, and engine management are connected to one another by
Integrated Chassis Management. With the suspension control sensors also feeding
xDrive with the data required for determining current driving conditions,
xDrive is able to respond proactively, as it were, in order to stabilise the
vehicle at all times.

With its new control philosophy, Integrated Chassis Management ensures even
faster and more precise coordination of xDrive and DSC. While so far the
behaviour of the vehicle was influenced almost independently by engine and
brake management, on the one hand, and the management of longitudinal forces,
on the other, these three control cycles now operate in parallel. So while the
management of longitudinal forces masterminds the division of engine power
front-to-rear, brake management is able to intervene individually on each
wheel, applying the brakes appropriately in the interest of optimum traction
and driving dynamics.

Engine management, in turn, is able to reduce or increase drive power whenever
required.

Forming such a precise network with DSC, BMW xDrive ensures a fast and precise
response to any change in driving conditions and, as a result, an even higher
standard of driving dynamics.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control with additional functions.
The new BMW X3 features an even more sophisticated system of Dynamic Stability
Control now enhanced by numerous additional functions: BMW's new DSC not only
ensures superior driving stability and traction, but also optimises the effect
of the brakes by increasing brake pressure as required in response to even the
slightest fading under extremely high brake temperatures.

Building up moderate brake pressure at an early point in time, the system also
enhances brake standby in situations likely to require spontaneous application
of the brakes. Regular Dry Braking, in turn, a function activated automatically
as soon as the driver switches on the windscreen wipers, optimises brake
performance in the wet.

DBC Dynamic Brake Control, to present yet another example, automatically
maximises brake pressure in an emergency when the driver is required to brake
all-out. And last but not least, the Set-Off Assistant significantly
facilitates the process of setting off on an uphill gradient.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control also comprises the ABS anti-lock brake system,
ASC Automatic Stability Control, HDC Hill Descent Control, Trailer Stability
Control, and CBC Cornering Brake Control preventing the vehicle from swerving
whenever the driver applies the brakes lightly in a bend.

DTC featured for the first time also in a BMW X model.
DTC Dynamic Traction Control also included in the new DSC system likewise
enhances the superior driving dynamics of the new BMW X3. With DTC raising the
thresholds for intervention by the engine and the brakes to a higher level, the
BMW X3 is able to set off smoothly under difficult conditions such as loose
snow, intentionally allowing the drive wheels to slightly spin.

DTC also allows a particularly sporting and active style of motoring by
offering the driver higher lateral acceleration all the way to a light and
controllable drift in bends. Pressing down the DTC button somewhat longer, the
driver is able to completely deactivate DSC, as on BMW's other models. In that
case all that remains is a transverse lock function with the brakes intervening
on the wheel spinning.

The new BMW X3 comes as standard on 17-inch light-alloy wheels, the BMW X3
3.0sd featuring even larger 18-inch wheels as standard.

Various other light-alloy wheels measuring 18 and even 19 inches are also
available as an option, while the Tyre Defect Indicator likewise fitted as
standard informs the driver in good time of any loss of tyre pressure.

Generous and safe: the bodyshell of the new BMW X3.
With its solid body structure and complete range of retention and safety
systems masterminded by a central electronic control unit, the new BMW X3
offers passive safety of the highest standard.

High-strength longitudinal arms and crossbars, together with bolted-on
deformation units, ensure appropriate diversion and absorption of impact forces
in a collision from the front. The consequences of a side-on collision, in
turn, are minimised inter alia by diagonal door reinforcement bars with
high-strength steel profiles hooking on to the side frame in the event of
deformation for additional absorption of impact energy. As a result, the
passenger cell remains largely undamaged even in a severe collision.

Within the interior not only frontal and side airbags, but also curtain head
airbags at the side all come as standard, inflating out of the covers in the
A-pillars and roof lining and protecting both the front and rear occupants from
injury.

The new BMW X3 measures 4,569 millimetres or 179.9'' in length, 1,853
millimetres or 73.0'' in width, and 1,674 millimetres or 65.9'' in height - and
precisely these figures make BMW's five-door SAV absolutely ideal for many
purposes and requirements. As the more compact member of BMW's SAV model range,
the new BMW X3 combines supreme agility and handling with generous and flexible
space inside, offering everything required for perfect versatility onroad and
offroad.

Loading capacity beneath the luggage compartment cover is 480 litres or 16.8
cubic feet. The large tailgate opening far up for extra convenience and the low
loading sill make loading and unloading of even bulky objects an easy exercise.
And after folding down the asymmetrically split rear seat bench, the luggage
compartment offers maximum capacity of no less than 1,560 litres or 54.6 cubic
feet.

Features and equipment: from comprehensive to exclusive.
Apart from the wide range of colours, upholstery and trim surfaces, attractive
options and special features give the customer a wide range of choice in
personalising his or her new BMW X3. Sophisticated navigation and audio
systems, for example, ensure an even higher standard of travelling comfort in
the new BMW X3 enhanced to an even higher level by the BMW Assist telematics
service available as an option.

Bi-xenon headlights also available as an option provide optimum visibility at
night and add that special BMW look through the ring-shaped parking lights
included in the headlight units.

The headlights may also be combined with BMW's Adaptive Lights moving in the
right direction in bends and on winding roads for optimum illumination of the
road ahead. And last but not least, Bending Lights integrated in the foglamps
facilitate a change in direction at night as well as the process of manoeuvring
the vehicle at low speeds.

PDC Park Distance Control measures the distance to an obstacle in front of or
behind the vehicle. When parking, therefore, the driver, benefits from an
acoustic signal "telling" him the distance from the vehicle to an object in the
way.

Last but again not least, fresh air fans are able to enjoy their driving
pleasure in the new BMW X3 in a particularly attractive manner, with the
two-piece panorama roof measuring 0.65 square metres in size providing an
exceptionally generous view of the sky above.

Given its wide range of qualities, the BMW X3 has become an outstanding
achiever in international car markets. And indeed - virtually unlimited options
in the use of the vehicle, sporting and dynamic driving characteristics, the
stylish presence of the X3's body design, and superior quality of finish make
the new BMW X3 a genuine exception in the all-wheel-drive market.

In everyday traffic the new BMW X3 combines effortless handling with agile
driving characteristics. Five large and generous seats and a luggage
compartment able to handle even major loads underline the vehicle's all-round
qualities. And when driving in winter, off the beaten track or as a sturdy
vehicle towing a heavy trailer, the BMW X3 benefits from the offroad qualities
of its body structure, the chassis and suspension, as well as the traction
advantages of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

Versatility is therefore the big strength of the BMW X3 not only inside the
vehicle, but also in terms of driving features. So that, in a nutshell, the new
BMW X3 provides the foundation for superior mobility in all situations,
combining the joys of activity and spontaneity all in one.

BMW is pleased to announce the launch of a revised X3, featuring the most
powerful diesel engine ever to power a production BMW in the UK. The revised X3
features two new petrol engines and is set to take the Sports Activity Vehicle
sector by storm.

Due to go on sale in the UK in September, the BMW X3 offers buyers the very
latest in engine technology. BMW's premium SAV now comes powered by a total of
five different engines - two petrol and three diesel units.

See downloadable document for table of performance figures for the range.

The headline-grabbing powerplant is a twin-turbo 3.0-litre diesel with an
output of 286hp and 580Nm of torque that has been developed from the engine
used by the BMW 535d. Such power places the X3 3.0sd into the realm of sports
car acceleration courtesy of a zero to 62mph time of 6.6 seconds and a 149mph
top speed.

What sets the X3 3.0sd apart from previous X3s is that it comes equipped with
the same twin-turbo technology that has already been showcased in the BMW 535d.
By using two turbochargers, one smaller one larger, the X3 3.0sd offers high
levels of low down pulling power as well as top end performance. It can do this
because the smaller turbo boosts at low revs for instant, smooth and swift
acceleration, but as engine speed builds the larger turbocharger comes into
play to continue the rapid progress. The result is an engine that develops peak
torque from just 1,750rpm through to 2,250rpm, but is capable of continuing to
rev up to 4,400rpm - an unusually high limit for a diesel.

Completing the triumvirate of new six-cylinder engines to the X3 are a
2.5-litre 218hp petrol unit and a new 272hp 3.0-litre petrol engine. Both of
these powerplants are based on the world's lightest production six-cylinder
engine constructed of aluminium and magnesium alloy. The smaller capacity
engine can power the X3 from zero to 62mph in 8.5 seconds before going on to a
top speed of 137mph. The higher output 3.0-litre engine reaches 62mph from zero
in just 7.5 seconds before attaining a top speed of 142mph.

For those new car buyers looking to balance performance with economy, two other
choices of engine are offered. A 150hp 2.0-litre diesel represents the entry
point of X3 ownership. Further up the scale the existing 218hp 3.0-litre diesel
engine is also offered.

With the exception of the BMW X3 3.0si and 3.0sd, which use a six-speed
automatic gearbox, all X3 variants come with a six-speed manual gearbox as
standard. A six-speed automatic gearbox is also an option on all six-cylinder
engined cars.

A new look:

The introduction of a new X3 isn't just a story of new engines. BMW's designers
have subtly altered the car to freshen its appeal. At the front a larger kidney
grille sits above a redesigned front bumper and spoiler. On the new car a
colour-coded spoiler with vertical uprights is positioned below the dark swathe
of the bumper, while the front foglights are now incorporated into the main
section of the bodywork. The X3 3.0sd rides on 18-inch light alloy wheels as
standard while larger twin exhaust pipes protrude from under the rear valance.

The side profile remains true to the original X3, but the rear new light
clusters feature rods of LED lights. The styling of the rear bodywork has also
changed with colour-coded panels now extending lower down the bodywork.

Inside, the driver can get to grips with a new style of three-spoke steering
wheel while enhancements to the type of materials used on the centre console
have also been included. Again, the owner of a X3 3.0sd gets special treatment
with
stainless steel foot pedals to underscore the performance nature of the vehicle.

Enhanced traction control :

To aid performance and safety the new BMW X3 features the very latest traction
control system allied to xDrive, BMW's unique four-wheel-drive system. For the
first time on a BMW X model BMW's innovative Dynamic Stability Control + (DSC+)
system is fitted as standard. In addition to the all round traction control
benefits of such technology, DSC+ on the X3 comes with four additional features
aimed at improving safety.

Brake Pre-tensioning shortens stopping distances during an emergency stop by
priming the brakes should the driver lift off the accelerator sharply in
preparation. Brake Drying improves braking performance in the wet by
periodically applying the brake pads to scrub away the film of water that can
build up on the brake discs. Hill Start Assistant allows a manual transmission
car to pull away smoothly on a gradient without rolling backwards, courtesy of
the brakes being held for the short time it takes the driver to apply the
accelerator after releasing the foot or handbrake. Brake Fade Compensation
applies additional braking without any extra effort from the driver should
sensors detect that the brake pads are starting to lose 'bite' due to heat
build up.

In another first on an X model the driver will now be able to select the
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function of DSC. DTC allows for a greater degree
of wheel slip for more spirited driving without the main traction control
system safety net intervening. This option can be selected via a button on the
centre console.

Prices and full specification of the new X3 will be announced before its on
sale date in the Autumn.

Ends

BMW Great Britain is building on the early success of the new X3 model by
announcing details of the forthcoming two-litre diesel engined model.
Available in standard and SE models, the X3 2.0d will be available in October
2004 priced from £26,175 OTR.

Adding a further dimension to X3 ownership, BMW's highly praised diesel engine
produces 150bhp at 4,000rpm and 330Nm (243lb-ft) of torque at a calm 2,000rpm,
power being delivered through a standard six-speed manual gearbox.
Accelerating from standstill, 62mph is reached in 10.2 seconds while top speed
is 123mph. Yet the X3 2.0d delivers a frugal 39.2mpg on the combined cycle and
CO2 emissions of 191g/km.

xDrive

Differentiating the X3 from all competitors is xDrive - BMW's new and patented
four-wheel-drive system. Introduced on the new X5 in late 2003, all new BMW X3
models use the centrally mounted, electronically-controlled clutch to
distribute power to the axle with most traction in less than 100 milliseconds.
In conjunction with this clutch, BMW's standard DSC system can reduce power and
even brake individual wheels to ensure the car benefits from all available
grip. Setting new standards for traction from a 4 x 4 system, xDrive ensures
that any loss of footing, on - or off-road, is dealt with instantly rather than
waiting until the car becomes physically unstable.

The DSC system also assists Trailer Stability Control (TSC), which comes as
standard with a factory fitted tow bar. TSC monitors any pendulum effect,
applying brakes of individual, diagonally opposed wheels of the car if DSC
detects undue yaw movement characterised by the vehicle being overly-influenced
by its trailer.

DSC also contributes to the Hill Descent Control system (HDC). On steep
gradients and with HDC activated, the vehicle's progress is automatically
slowed to walking speed. Alternatively a target speed of between three and 16
mph can be selected using the cruise control buttons on the multi-function
steering wheel or the brake / accelerator pedals. DSC does this by applying
the brakes to individual wheels, stabilizing the car on descent and eliminating
any risk of the car sliding to the bottom of the slope.

Standard and Optional Equipment

All BMW X3 2.0d models are equipped with 17" alloy wheels, automatic air
conditioning, CD player, roof rails, an alarm and Brake Force Display, BMW's
new two-stage brake lights. SE models additionally feature a front centre
armrest, front fog lamps, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control,
on-board computer and Park Distance Control. All X3 models come with a range
of options to accompany the active lifestyles of its owners.

Options include either Business or Professional navigation system, the
Professional system featuring map guidance within a dedicated 16:9 pop-up
colour monitor. Complementing the X3's capacious interior and cavernous
480-litre boot is a storage rail system that provides a method of safely
transporting two bicycles upright in the boot. Also available is a Panorama
Roof, offering a large 0.65 metre square sunroof that benefits both front and
rear passengers, with a speed-dependant wind deflector to minimise interior
buffeting.

Adaptive Headlights can also be specified, making night driving safer and
easier. These respond to steering inputs and swivel by up to 15 degrees,
illuminating up to 90 per cent more of the road ahead as well as any previously
unseen, potential hazards.

Further models announced

From autumn 2005, a six-cylinder 3.0 diesel derivative will also be available
in SE or Sport form, details of which will be announced closer to its
introduction.

Ends

The new BMW X3 Contents 1. Overview 2. Market 3. Design 4. Drivetrain 5. Chassis 6. Safety 7. Standard and optional equipment 8. Technical specifications 9. Torque Curves 10. Line drawings

1. Overview

BMW is launching an all-new Sports Activity Vehicle - the X3 2.5i SE and X3
3.0i SE and Sport models that all feature xDrive, BMW's technically advanced
4x4 system.

The X3 is set to repeat the X5's success and offer a premium car that can cope
with most off-road situations, provide superb levels of practicality and safety
and maintain BMW's reputation for engineering supreme cars for drivers.

When the BMW X5 went on sale in 2000 it established a new market segment - the
Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). At the time, BMW Great Britain's managing
director, Jim O'Donnell said, "Most 4x4's boast their credentials in off-road
circumstances yet 90 per cent of them never see a scrap of mud in their lives.
The compromise they make for this promise unfulfilled by their customers is a
vehicle that drives on the road more like a truck than a car." The following
three and a half years have seen the X5 fulfil its promise, with great on-road
capabilities backed up by real-world off-road agility, resulting in critical
acclaim and record sales year-on-year.

The BMW X3 is expected to reproduce the X5's impact as a catalyst for a new
market segment. It is a premium driver's car featuring comprehensive 4x4
potential through xDrive, offering predictive and infinitely variable power
distribution between front and rear axles.

With the launch of the X3, BMW continues its drive to offer a premium vehicle
in all of its target market segments. It also means that the company now offers
an unbeatable level of choice within its line-up for customers seeking cars
with the combination of great driving dynamics and practical abilities.

Prices begin at £28,715 for the 2.5i SE (£32,115 for the 3.0i SE) and the
launch models will be joined by 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre diesel models over the
next 18 months.

Highlights

... Choice of 2.5-litre or 3.0-litre six cylinder petrol engines featuring
bi-VANOS technology
... 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic gearboxes (automatic only on 3.0i)
... Top speed of 130mph (137 on the 3.0i Sport) with a 0 ? 62 mph time of 8.1
seconds (3.0i SE)
... 231bhp at 5,900rpm on the 3.0-litre petrol model
... Suspension concepts derived from the 5 Series and 6 Series models
... BMW's xDrive technology
... Ground clearance of over 200mm and a wading depth of 500mm
... BMW's Hill Descent Control and Trailer Stability Control
... Towing capability of 2000kgs
... Superb boot access with tailgate opening to 1.85m height
... High quality interior design and materials
... 'Intelligent' driver and passenger front and side airbags, plus head
airbags for front and rear passengers
... Three rear three-point seat belts
... Two ISOFIX child seat attachments standard in the rear seats
... Deformable bumper system
... Park Distance Control
... Tyre Pressure Warning System
... Ventilated disc brakes front and back
... 17" alloy wheels

Basic Data:

BMW X3 2.5i SE (Manual) £28,715.00 OTR 192bhp 245Nm 0-62mph in 8.9 secs
Top speed 129mph 25.2mpg 272g/km

BMW X3 2.5i SE (Automatic) £30,065.00 OTR 192bhp 245Nm 0-62mph in 9.8secs
Top speed 129mph 23.7mpg 289g/km

BMW X3 2.5i Sport (Manual) £29,765.00 OTR 192bhp 245Nm 0-62mph in 8.9 secs
Top speed 129mph 25.3mpg 272g/km

BMW X3 2.5i Sport (Automatic) £31,115.00 OTR 192bhp 245Nm 0-62mph in 9.8
secs Top speed 129mph 23.7mpg 289g/km

BMW X3 3.0i SE (Automatic) £32,115.00 OTR 231bhp 300Nm 0-62mph in 8.1 secs
Top speed 130mph 23.3mpg 293g/km

BMW X3 3.0i Sport (Automatic) £33,115.00 OTR 231bhp 300Nm 0-62mph in
8.1secs Top speed 137mph 23.3mpg 293g/km

Market

The BMW X3 provides a unique offering to the growing SUV/SAV market with a
blend of practicality, on- and off-road ability, modern design and
state-of-the-art technology. It joins a highly regarded line-up of practical
and dynamically appealing BMW cars such as the 3 and 5 Series Touring and X5,
but offers its own distinct face and features within that range. It will
appeal to BMW's existing customers and, importantly, a group of new customers
who have, in the past, decided that the current BMW line-up does not exactly
satisfy their demands or lifestyles.

Smaller and even more agile than the critically acclaimed X5, with more
real-world off-road potential than both BMW's Touring models, the X3 is set to
kick-start a new market segment, just as the X5 did in 2000.

The X3 will bring more women drivers and a younger audience to the BMW stable.
The average age of owners is predicted as between 35 to 40 and it will appeal
to couples with young families. However, virtually 100 per cent of X3 owners
will be looking for the blend of typical BMW on-road dynamics with off-road
potential that will satisfy their lifestyles, whether that off-road experience
takes them to their recreational pursuits every weekend or remains as a
reassuring back-up in emergencies.

Recent research has shown that over 20 per cent of X5 owners use their cars'
off-road capabilities at least once a month and, as X3 features all the
technologies available on X5, these figures are expected to be reproduced in
BMW's new SAV.

The BMW X3 has no direct competitors. The closest rivals are Land Rover
Freelander and Lexus RX 300, but neither offers the X3's all-round abilities.
It is anticipated that new competitive models will arrive in the market place
over the next few years. However, if X3 commands the same unrivalled owner
loyalty as X5, (recently reported as the car most owners would recommend to a
friend in Which? and J.D.Power surveys), BMW Great Britain confidently predicts
that demand will comfortably reach 10,000 cars in a full year. The arrival of
BMW's award-winning two and three litre diesel engines to the range in 2004 and
2005 should push that figure even higher.

As a means of comparison, the following table shows the number of BMW 3 Series
Touring, 5 Series Touring (in its run-out year) and X5's sold in the UK in 2003.

2003 UK sales volume
BMW 3 Series Touring range 8,274
BMW 5 Series Touring range 2,142
BMW X5 range 8,535

Design

The over-riding X3 design concept tells two stories in one overall package. The
overriding impression is one of solidity, ruggedness and practicality expected
of a car bound for an active life, yet the details are those of a typical
dynamic and agile BMW. This balance in design communicates the car's twin
abilities of highly capable off-road potential married to on-road driving
dynamics straight out of the BMW manual.

The car is clearly a driver's car with its raked A-pillar framing a set-back
cabin, resulting in the most coupé-like and aerodynamic body for any car
considered in its competitive environment. 17" alloy wheels, short overhangs,
a long bonnet and twin tailpipes continue the performance theme, whilst BMW's
new design philosophy continues with contrasting concave and convex surfaces
meeting at sharp intersections to produce a dramatic and almost organic surface.

Yet its practical advantages and off-road capabilities are also in evidence
with high ground clearance, top-quality plastic deformable bumpers, elevated
seating position and a large tailgate that opens at a conveniently low
shut-line and lifts to over 1.85 metres.

Inside the car, the balance of practicality and style continues. The X3 comes
with a choice of cloth (standard), Sensatec 'performance' material or leather
upholstery, plus trim options of buffed aluminium, light birch or dark maple on
top of the standard slate grey interior trim. Sports seats are available as an
option either independently or as part of the Sports package that also includes
an upgrade on the standard multi-function steering wheel, 18" alloys and sports
suspension.

Stowage and boot space are key features in the X3's market segment and the car
offers a host of storage bins and pockets throughout, with 60:40 split-fold
rear seats that fold virtually flat providing 1560 litres of storage. The
large one-piece tailgate exploits this space ensuring that loading or unloading
is as painless as possible, with anyone up to 1.85 metres in height able to
access the boot comfortably without bending. With rear seats raised, 480
litres of boot space is accessible.

BMW Business CD, six CD preparation, air-conditioning, four-spoke
multi-function steering wheel with cruise control and all-electric windows with
anti-trap and comfort closing are all standard features. Roof rails also come
as standard and, recognising the active lifestyles that many X3 owners will
lead, BMW is also introducing an optional storage package including a recessed
storage rail system. In conjunction with a new accessory for the X3, it allows
two mountain bikes to be locked upright within the car with the rear seats
folded.

Drivetrain

xDrive: With its renowned engines, choice of transmissions and all-new xDrive
four-wheel-drive system, the new X3 features key technologies that ensure it
competes realistically with virtually all off-road vehicles and stretches even
further away from the competition in terms of on-road driving dynamics.

xDrive is the key to BMW's X cars' unmatched combination of on- and off-road
abilities, and two fundamental principles underline xDrive's potential:

... xDrive uses comprehensive vehicle data from Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) sensors to constantly monitor driving conditions and predict traction
loss, enabling xDrive to act rather than react.
... xDrive improves stability, performance and safety by constantly and
instantly channelling appropriate drive forces from axle-to-axle.

On-road, traction and agility are improved, whilst the risk of over- or
understeer is constantly monitored during cornering. Off-road, traction is
significantly improved as xDrive channels drive forces to the axle with most
grip rather than cutting engine power or braking troubled wheels. The whole
ethos of xDrive is about predicting a loss of traction rather than reacting to
it, which enables the car to use intelligently distributed power and drive to
negotiate rough terrain or exploit enthusiastic driving.

xDrive comprises two key ingredients - an electrically activated multiple-plate
clutch which changes drive distribution from axle-to-axle, and the familiar DSC
system that regulates power to each wheel. Responding in just 100
milliseconds, xDrive is far quicker than more conventional four-wheel-drive
systems.

The intelligence of xDrive comes from DSC (standard on all new BMWs), which
delivers a wealth of vehicle data including individual wheel speed, steering
angle, lateral acceleration and yaw rates. By constantly processing this
information, xDrive is able to detect situations in which traction loss is
likely in an instant and to transfer drive variably front-to-rear the precise
moment that grip is lost. Naturally DSC can intervene but, because of xDrive's
ability to re-direct power and prevent traction loss, it does so far less
frequently and only in extreme circumstances. Where traction loss is
unavoidable, DSC cuts power and, if necessary, applies brakes to individual
wheels allowing the car to regain a foothold, but not necessarily slowing its
progress.

Engines: The heart of the X3's impressive performance is BMW's acclaimed six
cylinder petrol engine, available in X3 in both 2.5i and 3.0i variants. With
higher performance figures and better economy than its nearest rivals, the X3
is sure to satisfy enthusiastic drivers.

BMW's patented bi-VANOS camshaft adjustment system is the key to the X3's
market-leading figures and also enables it to compete on emissions. With
192bhp available at 6,000rpm, the X3 2.5i reaches 62mph in just 8.9 seconds and
a top speed of 129mph. The 3.0i automatic model knocks almost one second off
the 0-62mph time and adds up to 8mph to the top speed (8.1 seconds / 137mph
respectively on the X3 3.0i Sport).

The X3 2.5i also comes with an optional automatic version and offers figures of
0-62mph in 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 129mph.

CO2 figures are 272g/km for the 2.5i (289g/km for the automatic version) and
293g/km for the 3.0i automatic. Combined fuel consumption figures are 25.2mpg
for the 2.5i (23.7 for the automatic version) and 23.3 for the 3.0i. Worldwide
demand for BMW's diesel engines means that the UK will take delivery of its
first 2.0-litre diesel versions in late 2004 and its 3.0-litre diesel models
one year later.

Transmissions: In the UK, the X3 2.5i model features a typically responsive and
accurate six speed manual gearbox with short ratios from first to fifth that
exploit the car?s 24 valve power. Sixth gear is an overdrive ratio that allows
for more economical and quieter cruising. A five-speed automatic is optional.
The 3.0i version features the five-speed gearbox as its only transmission unit,
and the car's 231bhp is transmitted efficiently through the gears offering
strong, instant acceleration.

As on all BMWs the automatic gearbox still offers a 'manual' Steptronic shift
option through its S/M setting, engaged by shifting the gearstick to the left
into the S/M gate. This defaults to the automatic Sport settings which see the
transmission change up automatically at higher revs, but the driver can also
then shift manually by pulling back to go up the gearbox or pushing forward to
drop down.

Chassis

A car with a great engine, accurately mated transmissions and advanced
four-wheel-drive system still requires a solid foundation to ensure that
performance and technology produce a wholly rewarding drive. The X3, as on the
X5, features a unitary structure rather than the ladder frame chassis found on
most other 4x4s. This provides impressive levels of torsional rigidity, soaks
up vibrations particularly effectively and allows the car to handle and ride
like a typical BMW.

Front and rear suspension set-ups are based on the BMW 5 and 6 Series concepts
with an integral rear arm and a double-joint spring strut front axle, all made
of steel to combat all-terrain use. These are rubber-mounted at all points,
with the rear axle also featuring a separate rubber-mounted chassis sub-frame.
A low centre of gravity and a front drive shaft that runs through the oil sump
help to reduce roll to executive car levels.

Safety

The X3's high ground clearance, elevated driving position, and flexible and
strong unitary bodyshell structure make it intrinsically very safe. However,
as with the X5 and its five star Euro NCAP rating, the X3 features a host of
safety elements that build on this foundation, continuing BMW's tradition of
offering extremely safe, and dynamically exciting cars.

xDrive and its DSC control system, form the bedrock of the X3's safety
systems. Its constant monitoring of driving conditions and pro-active
technology allows it to drive the car out of emergency situations rather than
react to them. However, should the X3 be unable to avoid an accident, up to
eight airbags offer comprehensive protection. Front airbags, side airbags for
driver and passenger and head airbags that extend back from the A-pillar to
protect both front and rear passengers come as standard with rear side airbags
optional. All airbags are 'intelligent', working independently within a
network ensuring instantly reactive targeted support to car occupants.

Two ISOFIX child seat attachments are standard in the rear seats, whilst the
driver and front passenger are further protected by the integration of
three-point seat belts that feature belt latch tensioners, belt force governors
and anti-submarining ramps in the seats. Three three-point seat belts with
belt latch tensioners also come as standard in the rear.

It is clear that X3 drivers will cover a range of terrains and the car's
electronics control and monitor a number of state-of-the-art systems to cover
most circumstances. The Tyre Puncture Warning System detects a loss of
pressure in the tyres, usually well before the immediate need to change the
tyre. Hill Descent Control (HDC), first introduced on X5, allows X3 drivers to
proceed smoothly and safely downhill, seemingly upsetting only the laws of
gravity. Adaptive Headlamps increase illumination on the road ahead by up to
90 per cent - the headlights working with the cornering action of the car and
swivelling by up to 15 degrees in the direction the car is heading.

Finally, Trailer Stability Control (TSC) offers a claimed world-first
technology from BMW. The car's DSC system monitors any untoward swinging
action of an attached trailer and applies the brakes where necessary in order
to regain stability. With the X3 able to tow a braked load of up to 2000kgs,
and with 25 per cent of all UK registered X5s sporting a towbar, this will
clearly be a welcome technology.

Summary

BMW is continuing its impressive model launch programme with the X3 SAV. As
with all recent launches, from the Z4, 5, 6 and 7 Series models to the revised
X5, it mixes cutting edge technology with real-world practicalities in a
premium package that immediately takes a leading role in a new and expanding
market segment.

Contents: The New BMW X3 The World's First Premium Sports Activity Vehicle in its Class 1. The New BMW X3 2. Design 3. The New xDrive All-Wheel-Drive System 4. Chassis and Suspension 5. Power Units 6. Safety 7. Interior and Equipment 8. Optional Extras 9. The Market for the BMW X Family 10. Production of the BMW X3 11. Specifications 12. Output and Torque Diagram 13. Exterior and Interior Dimensions

The New BMW X3:
The World's First Premium Sports Activity Vehicle in its Class

... An entirely new category of vehicles for the demanding, active individual
... Superior, dynamic stance with unmistakable design
... xDrive: New, intelligent all-wheel drive for supreme agility
... 3.0- and 2.5-litre straight-six gasoline and 3.0-litre diesel engines
... Sporting and versatile in both driving characteristics and equipment.

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 (197.7'') in
length, the X3 is 87 millimetres (3.4'') longer than the 3 Series Touring, but
almost 30 centimetres (11.8'') shorter than the new 5 Series Saloon. And
measuring 4,667 mm (183.7'') 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 (110.0''), versus 2,725 millimetres (107.3'') on
the 3 Series Touring and 2,820 millimetres (111.0'') on the X5. In terms of
height, on the other hand, the X3, measuring 1,674 millimetres (65.9''), is
clearly higher than both the 3 Series Touring (1429 mm/ 56.3'') and the 5
Series Saloon (1,468 mm/57.8''), only the X5 leaving an even longer shadow with
its height of 1,715 mm (67.5''). And with only the driver sitting at the
wheel, ground clearance of the X3 measuring exactly 201 millimetres (7.91'') is
absolutely sufficient even on rough terrain.

Muscular straight-six power units for sporting performance:
BMW's straight-six gasoline and diesel engines famous for their supreme
refinement and performance ensure dynamic motoring wherever you go. Developing
maximum output of 170 kW (231 bhp), the agile X3 3.0i reaches a top speed in
standard trim of 210 km/h (130 mph), the optional high-speed set-up available
with the Sports Package allowing an even higher top speed of 224 km/h (139
mph). The power unit featured in the X3 2.5i, in turn, develops maximum output
of 141 kW (192 bhp).

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 7.8
seconds. And despite this performance the ultra-modern 3.0-litre gasoline
engine outperforming even the strict EU 4 emission standard consumes just 11.4
litres (100 kilometres), equal to 24.8 mpg Imp.

The aficionado of supreme torque will be thrilled in particular by the X3 3.0d,
the straight-six turbodiesel with second-generation common rail direct fuel
injection only recently upgraded developing maximum output of 150 kW (204 bhp)
in the X3, and giving this superior Sports Activity no less than 410 Nm (302
lb-ft) maximum torque. This also provides a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph)
increased even further to 218 km/h (135 mph) with BMW's high-speed set-up. And
when it comes to acceleration, the diesel is also an outstanding performer,
booming from 0-100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds. Fuel consumption in the process
remains very modest, however, the X3 3.0d requiring just 8.4 litres of diesel
for 100 kilometres, equal to 33.6 mpg Imp.

All three engine variants come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and
are available as an option with five-speed automatic transmission.

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.

On the road xDrive offers a significant improvement of agility, driving
pleasure and safety all in one. Suspension control systems such as DSC are not
required until a much later point in time than on a conventional
all-wheel-drive vehicle, and xDrive guarantees better traction and driving
conditions on rough or slippery terrain, since engine power is transferred
almost instantaneously to the wheels with more grip as soon as a wheel is about
to spin, thus reliably interrupting the flow of traction.

Excellent driving experience thanks to the commanding seating position:
In its versatility the new X3 is an outstanding performer not only on all kinds
of terrain, where it consistently demonstrates its agile and dynamic
character. Rather, the sophisticated interior and the wide range of equipment
make the X3 the ideal BMW for the active and versatile individualist in every
other respect, too. Sitting in their commanding position so characteristic of
a BMW Sports Activity, the occupants not only see the world around them from a
very clear, pleasant perspective, but also enjoy a very modern and spacious
interior: The X3 combines elegance and an aesthetic look appropriate for a
vehicle of this character with a sporting ambience and a wide range of
practical details. Able to choose from a great many classical as well as
sporting and modern materials and colours, the customer has numerous options in
personalising the interior of his - or her - X3.

Within the cockpit the two circular instruments are grouped in typical BMW
style within an elegant pinnacle, the middle of the dashboard is dominated by
the optional 16:9 colour monitor of the navigation system moving up
automatically when in use.

Lots of space and superior functions:
The X3 offers truly ample space behind the tailgate opening up to a steep angle
for easy access, allowing convenient accommodation of all kinds of luggage and
sports equipment such as several mountain bikes: Depending on the arrangement
of the seats, luggage space is up to 1,560 litres or almost 55 cubic feet.

Numerous additional storage compartments and boxes round off the superior
functionality of the X3 with a service load, depending on the engine, of up to
500 kilos (1,100 lb). Unladen weight is between 1,740 kg/3,837 lb (X3 2.5i)
and 1,850 kg/4,079 lb (X3 3.0d). And if you wish to take along even heavier and
bulkier sports equipment or any other kind of trailer, the optional towing hook
on the X3 2.5 is homologated for trailers weighing up to 1,800 kg (3,969 lb),
the two three-litre models even being able to tow 2,000 kg (4,410 lb) on a
trailer equipped with brakes.

Regardless of the weight towed, BMW's unique trailer stability control ensures
safe driving conditions with, say, a boat trailer or other trailers of any
kind. This extension of the DSC suspension control system is standard, just
like HDC Hill Descent Control for taking downhill gradients safely even on
loose ground.

In the process of developing the X3, BMW's engineers have naturally given
particular significance to active and passive safety. Right from the start, the
remarkable configuration and design principle of a BMW Sports Activity, with
the front drive shaft running through the oil sump, has given the X3 a very low
centre of gravity, reducing body sway in the process. With its intelligent
distribution of power, xDrive keeps the X3 very stable and secure even in fast
bends, generally avoiding critical situations from the beginning. And should
such a situation arise nevertheless, DSC suspension control featured as
standard intervenes immediately to restore the stability of the X3.

Yet a further feature fitted as standard on the X3 is the Tyre Pressure
Indicator (TPI) constantly comparing wheel speed in order to monitor air
pressure in the tyres and giving the driver both an optical and an acoustic
warning in the event of any loss of pressure.

Additional highlights: panorama roof and Adaptive Headlights:
The BMW X3 comes with a very wide range of optional features, two particular
highlights being the new, large panorama roof and BMW's innovative ALC Adaptive
Headlights.

The two-piece panorama roof extends almost completely throughout the entire
roof area of the X3, covering a glass area of 0.65 square metres. And the
driver is able to open up the roof completely simply at the touch of a button.

Adaptive Headlights, in turn, improve the driver's visibility in the dark by
swivelling to the side in an infinite adjustment process geared to the steering
angle of the vehicle. This adjusts the two bi-xenon headlight units as
required as a function of the steering angle, yaw rate and road speed, thus
illuminating bends ahead of the driver clearly and brightly.

BMW offers the particularly performance-minded purchaser of the X3 a special
Sports package that, thanks to its specific suspension set-up, gives the X3 an
even higher top speed. Further features included in this package are white
direction indicators, satin chrome, and star-spoke light-alloy wheels, as well
as a leather sports steering wheel and sports seats for both the driver and
front passenger.

The new BMW X3 will be available in Europe and North America from the beginning
of 2004. Other markets will follow later.

1. The New BMW X3:
BMW is expanding the Sports Activity market segment through the addition of an
entirely new category - the X3 combining the agility of a compact BMW with the
driving supremacy of the X5. Dynamic performance is provided by six-cylinder
power units, a six-speed gearbox, and BMW's new, electronically controlled
xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Further outstanding features contributing to
the special feeling of driving the X3 are the commanding seating position, the
generous feeling of space, and the modern range of equipment offered within
this compact SAV.

This new BMW model series will be entering the market in three variants in
early 2004, first as the X3 3.0i with a 170 kW (231 bhp) gasoline engine and,
somewhat later, in the guise of the X3 3.0d developing maximum output of 150 kW
(204 bhp) from its diesel engine and as the X3 2.5i with a gasoline engine
developing 141 kW (192 bhp).

This all-new and absolutely unique model series stands out at very first sight
through its data alone: Measuring 4,565 millimetres (179.7'') in length, the
X3 is 87 millimetres (3.4'') longer than the 3 Series Touring, but almost 30
centimetres (11.8'') shorter than the new 5 Series Saloon. The X5, on the
other hand, measuring 4,667 mm (183.7'') from bumper to bumper, also differs
clearly from the new X3 through its exterior dimensions alone.

The different wheelbase dimensions are equally clear, the wheelbase of the X3
measuring 2,795 millimetres (110.0'') (3 Series Touring: 2,725 mm [107.3'']/X5:
2,820 mm [111.0'']). In terms of its height, on the other hand, the X3, at
1674 mm (65.9'') (including the aerial), is significantly higher than both the
3 Series Touring (1,429 mm/56.3'') and the 5 Series Saloon (1,468 mm/57.8''),
only the X5, measuring 1,715 mm (67.5'') in height, rising up above the
newcomer to the BMW family.

Designed and developed as a Sports Activity, the X3 has superior features and
abilities clearly defined from the start: While the road is the preferred
terrain of this outstanding vehicle, it also offers safe and far-reaching
driving qualities on rough terrain ensured, first, by xDrive, BMW's new
all-wheel-drive system and, second, by superior ground clearance of 201
millimetres (7.91''), together with an embankment angle of 26.1º at the front
and 23.6º at the rear, as well as a ramp angle of 19º providing the freedom
required on all kinds of surfaces. The ramp angle, incidentally, is the
maximum admissible angle of a ramp such as a driveway leading into an
underground garage without the vehicle touching the ground between its axles as
it proceeds up or down such a gradient. Two further criteria which would also
look good even on an all-out offroader are the ability to cross bodies of water
up to 50 centimetres or almost 20'' deep and the maximum climbing gradient when
setting off of 33 per cent.

Aerodynamic objectives: superior driving pleasure, low fuel consumption:
The new BMW X3 not only looks very good in its styling and design, but also
offers superior aerodynamics: Careful calculations in the early development
phase and thorough optimisation in the wind tunnel, first using 1:2.5 models
and then models in original size, have given the X3 an airflow concept with a
drag coefficient Cd of 0.35 on all six-cylinder models, whether petrol- or
diesel-engined. A drag coefficient as low as this is quite unique within the
market segment the new BMW X3 is now entering, a low Cd rating offering the
driver supreme performance on very little fuel, particularly at high speeds.

Cooperating closely on all relevant details, BMW's aerodynamicists and
designers working in the wind tunnel have succeeded, inter alia, in giving the
X3 a perfectly streamlined rear spoiler. The reduction of internal resistance
in the cooling air ducts, in turn, improves both the supply of cooling air and
the flow of air out of the vehicle. Airflow to the front axle and manual
gearbox has likewise been optimised, BMW's engineers also keeping the
underfloor of the X3 very smooth and flat for an optimum flow of air.

Aerodynamic refinement of the BMW X3 provides optimum qualities also in terms
of driving dynamics, very low lift forces front and rear for a vehicle of this
kind serving to press the X3 on to the road particularly at high speeds both
when driving in a straight line and in bends. This, in turn, enhances the X3's
sporting and agile performance, lift forces reduced to a minimum also helping
to maximise active driving safety through longitudinal stability and driving
manoeuvres highly relevant to safety such as a quick lane change, etc.

Following the debut of the X3 Sports Activity Vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor
Show, BMW today reveals details of engine line-up, specifications and prices
for the UK market.

At launch in Spring 2004, the X3 will be available with either 3.0 or 2.5-litre
petrol engines. Priced at £32,015 on-the-road, the 3.0i SE promises a maximum
231 bhp, taking it from 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 130
mph, or 137 mph for the 3.0i Sport model* which also debuts at launch. An
impressive 300Nm torque is achieved at 3,500 rpm with drive delivered through a
standard 5-speed automatic gearbox. A manual gearbox will not be available on
X3 3.0i models.

Joining the 3.0-litre launch models will be the 2.5i SE, priced at £28,615
on-the-road, together with the 2.5i Sport. Powered by BMW's award-winning192
bhp six cylinder engine, the 2.5i develops 245 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Its
6-speed manual box comes as standard; an optional 5-speed automatic is also
available. Additional performance figures for the X3 2.5i SE and Sport will be
confirmed closer to launch.

BMW managing director Jim O'Donnell commented, "The new X3 represents the
latest in a line of segment-defining vehicles from BMW. It is the first premium
Sports Activity Vehicle in the compact/mid-size sector, and its appeal is
already reflected in advance orders for much of next year's allocation - a full
eight months before the UK launch. I expect the X3 to be another benchmark to
which our competitors aspire."

Sure footed
All models in the X3 range feature BMW's brand new four-wheel-drive system,
xDrive. Setting new standards in agility for four-wheel-drive, xDrive
distributes drive to the axle which most needs it in an instant, improving
stability, driving pleasure and safety. Fully variable, the system uses an
electrically activated multiple-plate clutch. This means it can respond more
quickly than more conventional systems, which require the build-up of hydraulic
pressure to change drive distribution.

In most circumstances xDrive is also able to intervene before any serious loss
of traction takes place, because it is constantly processing vehicle data from
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) sensors. These measure individual wheel speed,
steering angle, lateral acceleration and yaw rates and give xDrive its
'intelligence', allowing it to pre-empt problems rather than merely reacting to
situations where traction is lost.

As the multiple-plate clutch allows front and rear axles to be completely
disconnected, xDrive can also provide 100 per cent drive to the rear axle.

Helmut Riedl, Chassis Director BMW Group added, "xDrive is the perfect system
for maximising the driving enjoyment of BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles. Through
its variable distribution of drive, front-to-rear, it offers intelligent power
as an antidote to loss of control, rather than braking or power reduction via
DSC. xDrive keeps the fun in driving."

Controlled
Naturally DSC still functions, but 'intelligent' xDrive means it is needed less
frequently. While xDrive ensures optimum grip by channelling drive forces
axle-to-axle, DSC acts on individual wheels only where one starts to slip,
cutting power and, if necessary, applying brakes.

An additional function of DSC is Trailer Stability Control (TSC), which comes
as standard with factory fitted tow bars. TSC monitors any pendulum effect,
applying brakes if DSC detects undue yaw movement characterised by the vehicle
being overly-influenced by its trailer.

On steep downhill gradients Hill Descent Control (HDC) can be activated via a
dashboard mounted button, slowing the vehicle automatically to programmed
speeds between three and 16 mph, stabilizing it and reducing the risk of wheel
locking.

Well equipped
As well as impressive levels of standard equipment, which includes automatic
air conditioning and cruise control, the X3 comes with a range of options to
accompany the active lifestyles of its owners.

These include a choice of either Business or Professional navigation system,
the Professional system featuring map guidance within a dedicated 16:9 colour
widescreen monitor. Complementing the X3's capacious interior - and cavernous
480-litre boot - is an optional Panorama Roof, providing more light and better
views for passengers.

Adaptive Headlights can also be specified, making night driving safer and
easier. These respond to steering inputs and swivel by up to 15 degrees,
illuminating more of the road ahead as well as any potential hazards.

Three new exterior colours complete the picture - Flamenco Red, Highland Green
and Mocha Brown. These are complemented by new seat options including Leather
Ambiente in Grey, Black, Terracotta, Grey Blue and light Sand Beige. Interior
trim options feature slate grey, aluminium buffed finish and fine wood trims in
light birch grain and dark maple wood.

Note to editors:

* The high-speed set-up is standard on X3 Sport models. As well as sports seats
for driver and front passenger, leather sports steering wheel, individual
high-gloss satin chrome and anthracite head lining, its 18" alloy wheels come
with VR rated tyres. This means the top speed on the 3.0i, ordinarily
electronically limited to 130 mph for standard HR rated X3 tyres, is de-limited
to the car's natural top speed of 137 mph.

Ends

... First premium Sports Activity Vehicle in its class
... xDrive as standard: new intelligent four-wheel-drive technology
... Standard Hill Descent Control (HDC) and optional Trailer Stability Control
(TSC)
... Sporting and versatile on and off-road
... World debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in September

BMW has announced first details of its new X3 model. Expanding the BMW
X-family, this dynamic and versatile new model combines the outstanding agility
of a BMW saloon with the practicality of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

xDrive
The X3 introduces BMW's patented xDrive intelligent four-wheel-drive, which
sets new standards in agility for all-wheel-drive systems. It works by changing
torque distribution from front-to-rear axles in an instant, offering
substantial improvements in stability, driving pleasure and safety.

xDrive is both fully adjustable and infinitely variable. It feeds optimum
torque to the required axle at any time, countering understeer and oversteer
while cornering on road. Off-road xDrive significantly improves traction by
distributing drive forces to the axle with most grip. As soon as wheel spin
threatens, the electro-hydraulic centre coupling transfers power to the axle
with greater traction.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) complements xDrive, but intervenes far later
and is required less frequently. While xDrive, helps prevent loss of traction
by channelling drive forces axle-to-axle, DSC works on individual wheels,
intervening when one starts to slip. In these circumstances DSC cuts power to
the relevant wheel and, where necessary, also applies brakes.

Styling
In appearance the BMW X3 combines the characteristic proportions of a Sports
Activity Vehicle with classic and innovative design. Concave and convex
surfaces give the X3 a fresh and youthful look that underpins a range of
trademark BMW design features. The X3 has a pronounced "Hofmeister kink" in
the rear side windows and a newly designed double kidney grille complements the
X3?s headlamps. At the back, the car also sports distinctive X3 rear lights.

A long wheelbase with short overhangs and roof line sloping down to the rear
frame the dynamic character and performance of the car. Flared wheel arches,
and a striking front end give the newcomer its muscular character and underline
its strong road presence.

Performance
Although UK engine line-ups are still to be finalised, performance will come
courtesy of a range of petrol and diesel engines. This includes BMW's 3.0-litre
petrol which develops maximum output of 231 bhp. The agile X3 3.0i reaches a
top speed of up 130 mph in standard guise, going even further to 139 mph with
its optional high-speed set-up - included in the Sports Package.

Recently introduced, the 3.0-litre straight-six turbo diesel with
second-generation common rail direct injection, develops a maximum output of
204 bhp and propels this outstanding new model to 410 Nm maximum torque. Top
speed in standard form is 130 mph, or 135 mph with high-speed set-up.

Equipment
The versatility of the new BMW X3 is by no means limited to the on and off-road
conditions on which it will thrive. Inside, equipment levels make this the
ideal BMW for individuals who revel in an active lifestyle.

Owners will enjoy superior lofty views thanks to the command driving position
while the interior features a broad range of classic and modern materials,
colours and options to personalise the X3. The cockpit houses two circular
dials, grouped in typical BMW style in an elegant binnacle. In the middle of
the instrument panel, drivers will find the optional 16:9 navigation system
colour monitor which appears automatically when needed.

With tailgate open, the X3 reveals capacious storage space, enabling the driver
to carry all kinds of sports gear. A number of handy storage compartments are
also included, while for those who need to pull something really big - a boat
for example - BMW offers Trailer Stability Control for safe motoring when
towing. This extension of DSC complements automatic Hill Descent Control (HDC)
for safe downhill driving, even on loose ground.

Safety
In developing the X3, BMW focused in particular on developing the highest
standards of active and passive safety. Key design principles include extending
the front drive shaft through the oil sump, giving the X3 a very low centre of
gravity, reducing body roll for outstanding comfort and stability. And, of
course, with intelligent power distribution, xDrive keeps the X3 stable and
sure-footed even in fast bends.

The new BMW X3 will be available in the UK from late spring 2004.

ENDS

Munich. The BMW Group and SFT (Steyr-Daimler-Puch Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co. KG),
Graz (Austria), a subsidiary of Magna Group, have signed a cooperation
agreement covering the development and manufacture of the new BMW "X3" Sports
Activity Vehicle. The detailed vehicle concept worked out by engineers from the
BMW Group was forwarded to Magna Steyr Engineering for series development.
Production will be taken over by Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz. The
relevant contract was signed yesterday in Munich.

Through this cooperation on the realisation of the BMW "X3" project, the BMW
Group is optimising its own resources and pushing forward with its product
offensive. In Magna Steyr, the BMW Group has found a partner with many years'
experience in the realisation of vehicle projects. There has been in-depth
cooperation between the companies for years in the field of BMW four-wheel
drive technology in particular.

"Those who work alone can only accumulate; but those who cooperate
intelligently can multiply", says Professor Dr.-Ing. Joachim Milberg, Chairman
of the Board of Management of BMW AG. "Our cooperation with Magna Steyr
increases the speed and flexibility of our company and is a further milestone
in the consistent implementation of our product offensive."

The BMW "X3" is an expansion of the X family, and is an independent new
development. As with all BMW vehicles, some elements will use BMW module units.
All the vehicle components in the BMW "X3" will be signed off by the BMW
Group's Development Departments. In addition, core areas of competence, such as
design, engine construction, purchasing and customer service will remain the
sole responsibility of the BMW Group.

Dr.-Ing. Burkhard Göschel, Member of the Board of BMW AG, Development: "We are
making sure, right in the development process, that the "X3" will be a BMW
through and through. Components where BMW is a step ahead in terms of expertise
will continue to be developed by BMW engineers solely."

In order to integrate Magna Steyr in the worldwide BMW development network,
associates from Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik will be trained in the BMW Group.
Further details about the product will be published as usual before the market
launch.

Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik will be building a new assembly building in Graz
for production. The existing paint shop and shell construction facilities will
be modified. The total project-related expenses total comes to EUR 500 million.
Around 2,500 associates will be employed in production. The BMW "X3" will be
produced in Graz for markets throughout the world. The production plants in
Graz are designed for a capacity of over 300 vehicles per day. Production will
be adjusted flexibly to demand. It is intended that series production should
start in 2004.

Magna Steyr has regularly been awarded top marks in the famous quality surveys
carried out by J.D. Power & Associates. Magna Steyr Engineering will be
employing some 400 engineers on series development.

"The BMW order is a further recognition of our overall vehicle competence,
which is based - at the Graz site in particular - on
100 years of tradition and experience in automobile technology", explained
Siegfried Wolf, President & CEO, Magna Steyr, the parent company of SFT.

The BMW Group in Austria
The BMW Group is already important for Austria as a commercial location.
Overall, the BMW Group's involvement in Austria has already created over 8,000
direct and indirect jobs and led to the investment of around EUR 2 billion.

Last year, exports by the BMW Group in Austria exceeded imports by over 55%
(exports: EUR 2.2 billion, imports: EUR 1.4 billion). The largest engine
factory in the BMW Group today has been located in Steyr (Upper Austria) since
1979. In the year 2000, around 2,500 associates produced over 620,000 four and
six cylinder petrol and diesel engines, which is around two thirds of all BMW
engines built worldwide. At the same time, the location is also the diesel
competence centre within BMW.

The BMW Group's sales company in Austria, BMW Austria (founded in 1978), was
able to deliver 11,675 cars and 1,891 motorcycles to customers in 2000.