BMW X3

Summary

The new generation BMW X3 is launched in the country after being showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo. The crossover is available in a single diesel powertrain across two trims. The third-gen X3 can be had in four colour options combined with a choice of leather upholstery. The all-new X3 locks horns with the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, Jaguar F-Pace and the Lexus NX. It is assembled in India at BMW’s Chennai facility.

Exterior

The G01 X3 retains its unmistakable ´SAV´ body style. The chrome-finished Kidney grille is larger than before with closed air-dams housed inside. The full-LED headlamps have a curved design compared to previous car’s chiselled unit. The new X3 sits on 18-inch wheels as standard (19-inch on Luxury Line). The silhouette is unchanged but the wheelbase has increased. At the rear, the wraparound LED taillights are similar to the ones seen on other X models. There is a small spoiler on the powered tailgate which adds to the X3’s sporty appeal. The bumpers get dual circular exhaust tips with faux diffusers.

Interior

The cabin is typical BMW affair with a floating 10.25-inch infotainment system that comes with smartphone connectivity, premium leather upholstery, 600W sound system, ambient lighting and an all-new 12.3-inch fully-digital instrument cluster. BMW is also offering the ‘Display Key’ with the X3, apart from welcome lights, three-zone climate control and wireless charging. The boot capacity of 550 litres can be expanded to 1,600 litres by folding down the 40:20:40 rear seats.

Engin & Transmission

In the 20d guise, the X3 is powered by turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel motor producing 190bhp and 400Nm and The xDrive30i is powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder motor which produces 250bhp and 350N. It is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission that sends power to the xDrive system. BMW will introduce a petrol-powered X3 later this year. Other hardware on the crossover includes an adaptive suspension, hill ascent/descent control, six-airbags, driving modes, and a rear-view camera with park assist.