BMW X3 [2014-2018]

Summary

BMW, the world-class luxury car maker from Germany, introduced X3 as a five-seater SUV that runs on diesel. The X3 comes in two different variants—X3 xDrive20d Expedition and X3 xDrive20d xLine. These two variants come with a 3-litre diesel engine, which has a displacement of 1995 cc. The car after its launch has done well in the Indian market. Considering the class of BMW and its features, the car is expected to increase its customers in the coming days.

Further to this, read BMW X3 Road Test details by our expert.

Exterior

BMW X3 gives a sporty look at first glance and has some ravishing features and extravagant design. The new version of X3 has new headlights and a refined front bumper which makes it look like its bigger version BMW X5. It also has LED indicators in the side mirrors giving it a stylish side look. The new headlights have an automatic washer systemthat cleans the headlights whenever required. The car also has some intelligent features like rain sensors and automatic driving lights with fog LEDs. The xLine version of BMW X3 has a panorama glass sunroof making it even more elegant. The exterior side mirrors for both the models are electrically foldable and have an automatic anti-dazzle function.The wheels are made ofhigh-quality alloys with super light weight and enormous impact strength.

Interior

X3 has all the important features inside that a luxury SUV should have. Starting with the automatic air conditioning, this SUV has active carbon microfilter increasing the comfort of air conditioning inside the caron both fronts and rear seats. WithVelour mats on the floor, extremely good quality leather materials are used on the steering wheel and the comfortable seats. The other internal features are centre armrest in therear, roller sunblind for rear side windows, interior mirror with anti-dazzle function, rear backrest and many more. The car also has a lot of legroom for the driver and the passenger in the front. The car is loaded with extra shelves that can hold a lot of small items in them. The trunk space of the SUV is very big making it a complete package of style and luxury with great space. The rear seats of the SUV are foldable and can create a lot of extra space in the rear to carry the extra luggage. It also has a separate i-phone charging slot with a world class music systemthat has all the features. 

In spite of all the positives in this luxury car, there is one thing that might cause a worry. Its extended transmission tunnel cramps up the leg room for the person sitting in the middle of the back seat of the SUV.

Engine and Transmission

Both the variants of the SUV comes with inline cylinder valves in the 3.0 litre diesel engine that has a displacement of 1995 cc and it can generate a maximum power of 140 kW at 4000 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1750-2500 rpm. The BMW Twin power Turbo 4 cylinder diesel engine with Servotronic assistance at all speed ranges ensures a very high-intensity power generation. The eight-speed automatic and Steptronic transmission system that also has an automatic hold function ensures a comfortable ride and easy driving on long journeys.

Performance and Handling

This diesel powered monster SUV has a capability of reaching thespeed of 100 km/h from rest in 8.1 seconds which is remarkable. The mileage of the SUV is 18.56 kmthat is slightly on a lower side of a diesel engine vehicle. The car runs like a super machine on roads and even on the bumpy areas giving a smooth experience to the driver and passengers.

Braking System

BMW X3’s efficient dynamics also provide a brake energy regeneration feature that is unique. The front and back tyres have disc brakes and are governed by the antilock braking system. X3 also has brake assist feature that provides more stability and control.

Mileage

The 1995 cc Diesel - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 16 kmpl in city and 18 kmpl on highways.

Safety Features

BMW always gives a lot of preference in the security of every car they produce irrespective of the segment it belongs. This SUV also has many safety features like front airbags for the driver and the front passenger.There are head airbags for the front and rear passengers, side airbags for the driver and the front passenger, Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist, cornering brake control (CBC), electronic vehicle immobiliser. Also, it has a side impact protection,  aDynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and many more.

Verdict

BMW has made a lot of effort to create this powerful SUV monster and it has worked for them. The SUV offers all the luxury in a diesel car that would attract every customer of this section. So if you are looking for luxury SUV and you want to save some extra bucks, then BMW X3 is the ideal option to go.

Competition

The biggest competition of BMW X3 in theIndian market is Audi Q5, which also falls in the same price range. Both these cars are comparable with each other as many features in both the SUVs are similar. The other toughcompetitor of BMW X3 is Mercedes Benz M class. Although, the price range of Mercedes Benz M class is quite high when compared to BMW X3, still both the cars are comparable in terms of class and elegance.

Pros

1. Spacious with a lot of trunk space
2. Runs on diesel
3. BMW has its class

Cons

1. Transmission tunnel reduces the rear leg room
2. Mileage is on the lower side