Twin-turbo tops revised X3 range… But not for Oz
BMW has come up with a compact, frugal and almost affordable alternative to the likes of Porsche's Cayenne and Benz's ML 63 AMGZero to 100km/h in 6.6sec, a top speed of 240km/h and an overall fuel consumption figure of 8.7lt/100km... These are great numbers for any vehicle, but they verge on being outstanding when you factor in that they actually belong to an SUV.
Say hello to the updated BMW X3 line-up -- specifically, the range-topping X3 3.0sd, which scores the twin-turbo 3.0-litre diesel engine from the 535d. Kicking out 213kW and a Schwarzenegger-esque 580Nm, it’s the most potent powerplant ever slotted into the X3.
Now for the bad news. We’re not scheduled to get this variant in Australia. What we receive instead are a pair of petrol engines (albeit excellent ones) -- a 2.5-litre six with 160kW/250Nm and a 3.0-litre unit with 200kW/315Nm. These versions are no slouches either, knocking off the 0-100km/h in 8.5 and 7.5sec respectively.
Significantly, both the new BMW X3 2.5si and the 3.0si boast more power and torque than the previous BMW X3 sixes. The engines are BMW’s latest mag-alloy mills meaning that in comparison to the ‘old’ X3 the X3 3.0si gains 30kW more power and 15 Nm more torque while the 2.5si gets 19 kW and 5 Nm.
Supplementing these two is a 3.0-litre (single-turbo) diesel with 160kW and 480Nm, enough for a 0-100km/h sprint in 7.9sec. As expected, fuel economy is a forte, BMW quoting an overall consumption figure of 8.6L/100km.
All models will be offered with a six-speed Steptronic auto with a sequential shift facility -- as we Aussies aren’t that big on manuals.
Due Down Under in early 2007, the revised X3 gains a subtly altered look thanks to a larger kidney grille that sits above a redesigned front bumper and spoiler.
The derriere is distinguished by new light clusters featuring rods of LED lights. In addition, colour-coded panels extend lower down the bodywork for a more cohesive look.
The makeover extends to the cabin, which scores a redesigned instrument panel, new steering wheel, centre console, seats, revised trim levels and a new roof lining, as well as improved storage compartments.
Tech upgrades include the provision of the latest traction control system allied to xDrive -- BMW’s moniker for its all-wheel-drive system.
Dynamic Stability Control + (DSC+) will be supplemented by a host of other electronic aids denoted by an alphabet soup of acronyms: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC-X), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Automatic Slip Control (ASC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), increased braking readiness, fade compensation, dry brake function and Hill Descent Control (HDC).
Got all that?
The new version of the successful X3 range is expected to arrive in Australia early in the New Year. Says BMW Oz, local specification and pricing will be announced closer to its launch date.
BMW has sold more than 260,000 X3s worldwide since the cars launch 30 months ago. To read carPoint's most recent review of the BMW X3 click here.
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