BMW X3

BMW X3, one of the most powerful SUVs entered the Indian market with lots of hopes. The car is available in diesel version and it has two variants namely BMW X3 xDrive 30d and BMW X3 xDrive 20d. Both models of BMW X3 are powered by different capacity engines. BMW X3 xDrive 20d is loaded with   four-cylinder, 2.0 litre, 1995cc, diesel engine, which churns torque of 380 Nm at 1750 to 2750 rpm. The power generated by the engine is 184 hp at 4000 rpm.  Further, 2993 cc, turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine is provided to BMW X3 xDrive 30d. The power generated by the engine of the car is 258 hp at 4000 rpm. It has torque of 560 Nm at 2000 to 2750 rpm.  Average mileage of this SUV is 14.0 kmpl, which is indeed impressive.  

By strikingly modern contours, the athletic agility and design of this SUV is highlighted.  BMW X3 is known for its robust design and muscular looks, which can impress any passerby. With handling technologies used, the driving experience of this SUV is excelled. In order to provide strong grip on road, the car is loaded with ABS and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). With effective detailing and elegant use of colours, the interiors of new BMW X3 are designed. Due to the presence of huge amount of storage space and cargo bins, one can get maximum convenience while travelling. 

With its effective climate control, BMW X3 is able to comfort its passengers in all weather conditions. The company has added HiFi music system, with high quality speakers to soothe the mood of the music lovers.  Bright ambience inside the cabin is created by the optional panorama glass sunroof.  Those who demand safety features along with high power will be delighted to find numerous safety products inside the new BMW X3. Due to the presence of airbags, passengers remain safe during collision. 

Launch History of BMW X3:  

The much awaited BMW X3 was launched in the Indian market on 25 August 2011. Size of BMW X 3 cars is similar to that of current X5 which is due to be replaced next year. The car is offered to the Indian customers in only diesel engines and hence it joins Volkswagen Jetta, which is also available in the diesel model. XDrive20d and xDrive30d are the two models of BMW X3 2011.  2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine is provided to the BMW X3 xDrive20d car. It generates power of 184 bhp at 4,000 rpm.   

The BMW X3 xDrive30d comes with 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder diesel engine. At 4000 rpm, BMW X3 generates power of 258 bhp. This car is loaded with engine start-stop function and Dynamic Damper Control. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB slot are standard features of this car. This luxury SUV is priced between Rs. 38 lacs to Rs. 44 lacs, which make it suitable for the higher income group.  

Variants (Models) of BMW X3: 

There are two models of BMW X3 in India, which differs in terms of engine capacity and features. Some amount of price difference also exists among the models. Both models of BMW X3 India are offered to the clients in diesel versions. The details of the models are explained below:

Models Features of BMW X3

BMW X3 xDrive 30d : This model of new BMW X3 is loaded with 2993 cc engine; Power generated by the engine is 258 hp at 4000 rpm.  Further, the torque generated by the engine is 560 NM at 2000 to 2750 rpm.

BMW X3 xDrive 20d : It is the diesel version of BMW X3, which comes with 2.0 litre, 1995cc, and diesel engine. The engine delivers maximum power of 174 hp at 4000 rpm. It churns torque of 350 Nm at 1750 rpm. In 9.2 seconds, the car can reach 100 kmph mark and attain highest speed of 205 kmph.  

Pricing of BMW X3: 

Being a luxury car, the BMW X3 car is on higher side. The price xDrive 20d model of BMW X3 is around Rs. 38 lacs (ex-showroom Mumbai). However, the X3 xDrive 30d car is offered in price range of Rs. 44 lacs. 

Review of BMW X3:  

The BMW X3 was launched in the Indian market with lots of hope. However, the car faces tough competition from Audi Q5 and other luxury SUVs.  The style of BMW X3 is similar to that of X5, which was launched in 2005. It seems that the company has deliberately not decided to have its own platform to develop a SUV. The manufacturer does not borrow any aspect from other car makers. However, the company uses its earlier platform on which it has developed the 5 series and 3 series car. 

In the hordes of SUV's crowding segment, this model will get an edge due to its excellent looks. The headlights of BMW X3 are similar to that of BMWs 7 series.  Fog lights of the car are housed under the head lights. Below the front air dam, the aluminium skid plates are located. Further, V shaped swooping creases are featured on the bonnet of BMW X3. The 18 inch alloy wheels match well with the body structure of BMW X3 car. Twisted design of the wheels is continued by the company from its previous models. In chrome, the outlines of the BMW X3 car are done. Wing mirrors of the car are similar to the older model. Even though the X3 looks like a complete SUV, the single tail pipe tarnishes its image. The back bumpers of the car enhance the muscular look of the SUV. It also has integrated parking sensors. 

For the new SUV, the company has also managed to incorporate the airy feel. Interiors of BMW X3 are extremely spacious and the dashboard is large enough. The use of dark colour in the interiors reduces its rating in terms of luxurious look.  The steering wheel of BMW X3 car is similar to that of the 7 Series cars.  On the driver side, leg room space can be obstructed by the door pads of BMW X3. However, the space for the front passenger is not obstructed. BMW also provides the I drive system and it is fixed onto the central dash. It has small climate control button.  

Only two people can comfortably seat on the rear end of BMW X3. In the middle of seat, there is a transmission intrusion due to which third passenger cannot comfortably seat. For the comfort of the passengers, AC vents are provided in each seat. Like the X1 series, the seating arrangement of the car is also low. The car also has 510 litres of boot space, which is quite high. Due to the spilt seating arrangement, the boot space of BMW X3 car is enhanced further. Material used in X3 is superior in quality, which ensures maximum durability. Independent suspension is provided to the four wheels of BMW X3 car.  

The monocoque construction of BMW X3 provides a balanced body to the vehicle. BMW has codenamed XDRive system to the new 2011 BMW X3, which is a wheel drive system.  The car is also loaded with satellite navigation system. In this SUV, the manufacturer has incorporated a start stop technology.  Energy regeneration capabilities are also provided to the brakes of the car. Even though, the price of the car is high but it is worth paying.  

Specifications of BMW X3: 

The overall length, width and height of BMW X 3 cars are 4569 mm, 1987 mm and 1674 mm respectively.  Wheel base of the car is 2795 mm and it has kerb weight of 1880 kg. The rear legroom of the car is 760 mm and the front headroom is 985 mm. However, the front legroom is 1165 mm. The 1995cc, diesel engine of BMW X3 xDrive 20d generates power of 184 hp at 4000 rpm. Further, the BMW X3 xDrive 30d model is loaded with 2993 cc, which generates power of 258 hp at 4000 rpm.  

Exterior of BMW X3 

With excellent exteriors and massive designing, the BMW car attracts the attention of any car lover. To makes its appearance classy, the car is given powerful design from front to rear. The detailing of BMW X3 speaks style, agility and dynamism. 

Exterior Appearance of BMW X3:  

For maximum safety, the bonnet of the BMW X3 2011 is made strong and the rear is designed in a distinctive manner. The muscular design of the car can impress any passerby. Due to little detailing and elegant crease lines, the car gives a compact feeling. Further, the body parts of the car are painted in body colour, which enhances its looks. The car has also higher ground clearance compared to many other SUV's.  Body colour ORVMs of BMW X3 can be adjusted electrically. Further, the door handles of BMW X3 car is also painted in body colour. The car has large doors, which provide comfortable entry and exit. The tail light is placed is placed in a perfect position to provide maximum visibility to the traffic.

Exterior Measurements of BMW X3: 

In order make handling of the car easy and smooth, the BMW X3 is given an apt size. The total length, width and height of BMW X3 car is 4569 mm, 1987 mm and 1674 mm respectively. 

Interior of BMW X3 

With many elegant detailing, the BMW X3 car is beautified. The car is loaded with all kinds of comfort features, which are required in a luxury car. Interiors of the car are made of high quality plastic, which ensures maximum durability. 

Interior Appearance of BMW X3: 

Maximum care is taken by the company to enhance the external looks of this car. For people, who prefer luxury, the BMW X3 is the best car. Leather seats are provided in the car, which not only provides comfort but also contributes towards its looks. The steering wheel of the car is also covered with leather and it has many functional keys on it. Cabin of new BMW X3 is extremely spacious compared to many other SUV's.   Fine-wood trim Walnut Light and Fine-wood trim Poplar Grain Grey also contributes towards the interior looks of the car. 

Interior Comfort of BMW X3 

Being a luxury SUV, new BMW X3 car is loaded with various comfort features. The car comes with power windows, which can be operated by one touch of a button. For front and rear seats, there are head restrains. Further, the front seats of the car have sliding adjustment. At front and rear seats, the car is provided with cup holders. It also has floor mats in velour. The seats of new BMW X3 car can be adjusted electronically. Interior of this car is spacious, which provides maximum comfort to the passengers. 

Interior Measurements of BMW X3 

The new BMW X3 car has huge amount of internal space, which provides comfort to the passengers. Front headroom of the car is 985 mm and it has legroom of 1165 mm. Further, the rear legroom of the car is 760 mm. 

Mileage, Average and Fuel Economy of BMW X3 

Loaded with 1995 cc diesel engine, the BMW X3 xDrive 20d delivers average mileage of 14.0 kmpl.  However, the BMW X3 xDrive 30d car is equipped with 2993 cc, turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine, which provides mileage of 10 kmpl in city and 12 kmpl on highways. Both are diesel model cars and hence, one can get maximum benefit in the present day when fuel prices are rising constantly. 

On-road Drive of BMW X3: 

Driving BMW X3 would be fun as the car is designed using latest technology. It comes with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), which makes the car safe. In case of limits, when entire control goes in the hands of the driver, this technology intervenes.  BMW X3 car has Hill Descent Control (HDC), which can be activated by the driver, while driving through steep downhill roads. Brakes are applied to each wheel individually by the automatic speed control to reduce the motion of the car. By using accelerator or brake, drivers can vary their speed.  

Loaded with excellent braking system, the car provides maximum safety to the passengers. Both variants of BMW X3 come with ABS (Anti Lock Braking System). Handling becomes more reliable as the car comes with Automatic differential brake (ADB-X). The cornering break control feature also provides maximum safety on roads.

Power of BMW X3:  

The four-cylinder, 2.0 litre, 1995cc, diesel engine of BMW X3 xDrive 20d with turbocharger generates maximum power of 184 hp at 4000 rpm. Torque generated by the engine is 380 Nm at 1750 to 2750 rpm. The BMW X3 xDrive 30d is loaded with 2993 cc, turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine, which has  common-rail direct injection. At 4000 rpm, the power generated by the engine is 258 hp. Further, the torque churned is 560 NM at 2000 to 2750 rpm. 

Acceleration and Pick Up of BMW X3:  

For high pick up and acceleration, powerful engines are provided to both variants of BMW X3. The  BMW X3 xDrive 20d comes with 2.0 litre, 1995cc, diesel engine, which delivers high power due to which the car can reach top speed of 210 kmph. In 8.5 seconds, the car can reach 100 kilometre mark from standstill. The BMW X3 xDrive 30d has 2993 cc, turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine, which provides high power and torque. Engine of the car also contributes in terms of acceleration and speed. In 6.2 seconds, the car can attain top speed of 100kmph. 

Safety and Security of BMW X3: 

BMW has left no stone unturned to maker X3 a safe car. The new SUV comes with safety belts, which are tensioners and feature force limiters. In the event of a sudden jerk, the seat belts of BMW X3 are tightened by the tensioners for maximum safety of the passengers. Three automatic seatbelts and three headrests are provided in the rear seats. The new BMW X3 also has airbags, which provide maximum safety in case of collision.  Side airbags provides protection to the driver and front passengers.  

Only the appropriate airbags is inflated by the impact depending system to the correct degree. The body of BMW X3 car is designed for absorbing high degree of shock. Further, a first aid kit along with a warning triangle is also provided.  

Comfort and Convenience of BMW X3: 

For the comfort and convenience of the passengers, BMW has added various features to its X3 car. The SUV has leather seats and leather wrapped steering wheel, which are comfort attributes. AC of the car is highly effective due to which, one can maintain adequate temperature inside. All functional keys are mounted on the steering wheel for the convenience of the driver. By one touch of the finger, the front and rear windows of new BMW X3 can be opened and closed. For the front and rear seats of the car, head restrain are provided. At the rear and front seat, the car also has cup holders.  This SUV from BMW comes with electronic seat adjustment facility. In terms of space, BMW X3 2011 has received positive ranking. It has sufficient amount of headroom, rear room and leg room.  

Wheels of BMW X3:  

The new BMW X3 xDrive20d comes fitted with 17-inch light alloys and the new BMW X3 xDrive30d with 18-inch light alloys. Loaded with alloy wheels Star-spoke 204, 8J x 17 / 235/55 R17, the car delivers excellent performance on road. Wheel base of BMW X3 is 2795 mm. Due to the large wheel base, the car is able to maintain proper grip on road. 

Stereo and Accessories of BMW X3: 

For the music lovers, BMW has added a high fidelity HiFi music system in its X3. Impeccable sound quality is generated by ten high quality speaker and seven-band equaliser. Even at low volumes, superb bass playback is supplied by the carver technology. 

Dealers of BMW X3:  

There are many dealers of BMW X3 in India due to which one can purchase this luxury car conveniently. Information regarding the price can be collected from these dealers. The authorised dealers’ names are listed below: 

City Dealers

Delhi Deutsche Motoren Pvt. Ltd.

Mumbai Infinity Cars Private Limited

Navnit Motors Pvt. Ltd.

Chennai KUN Exclusive

Hyderabad Delta Motors

Bangalore Navnit Motors

Company Quotes for BMW X3: 

Dr. Andreas Schaaf, President, BMW India said, “The first-generation BMW X3 was the pioneer in its segment. We are confident that the second generation BMW X3 will inherit the position of its predecessor as the benchmark and will strengthen it further. The launch of the new BMW X3 is a significant milestone in our growth strategy in India and will beyond doubt accelerate the luxurious and dynamic characteristic of the brand.” 

“With the new BMW X3, we make a clear statement. The new BMW X3 is elegant like a true BMW and spacious like no other car in the segment. The enhanced agility optimised driving comfort and innovative equipment options in the new BMW X3 are designed not just to drive but to live the road, feel every bend and master every terrain.” Dr. Andreas Schaaf, President, BMW India further added.

Competitor Analysis of BMW X3:  

In the Indian market, BMW X3 competes with Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60.  In pulling power and fuel efficiency, BMW X3 2011 dominates Audi Q5 but in terms of exterior and interior style, the latter beats the former. Even though both cars are available in same price range but Audi Q5 provides higher mileage than BMW X3.  On comparing BMW X3 with Volvo XC60, it is clear that the looks of the former is better.  BMW X3 also delivers higher mileage as compared to Volvo XC60. However, the price tag of both cars is similar. Apart from the other models, BMW X3 also competes with BMW X1 and BMW X5.  

The price of BMW X5 is higher than BMW X3 and it is also superior in terms of pulling power and acceleration. However, BMW X3 gives better mileage than BMW X5. 

Pros of BMW X3: 

The BMW X3 car 2011 is known for its robust design and muscular looks. Leather seats increases the comfort level of this car. Further, the different engine options provide freedom of choice to the customers. 

Cons of BMW X3: 

Inspite of many advantages, BMW X3 is not free from drawbacks. It does not have traction control and there are no folding rear seats present in it. 

Conclusion of BMW X3: 

A perfect masterpiece, with hardly any flaws, the new BMW X3 provides tough competition to other SUV’s available in the market. Available in diesel engine, the car provides relief in the present scenario, when fuel prices are rising constantly.