Uncompromised Driving Pleasure, Unrivalled Value: The New BMW X3.
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MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA – March 8, 2011: The all-new BMW X3 has arrived on Australian shores having grown in size, value, and aesthetic appeal.
The-second generation X3 is the successor to BMWs highly successful mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) which sold more than 610,000 units worldwide since its launch in 2004.
The new model boasts the highest level of agility, driving dynamics, efficiency and variability in the segment as well as the introduction of BMW ConnectedDrive innovations which are unique in this class of vehicle.
BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Phil Horton said the new BMW X3 was already enjoying strong sales success overseas.
“There is enormous growth in demand for mid-sized lifestyle vehicles which makes the new BMW X3 extremely relevant in this market,” said Mr Horton.
“The combination of outstanding driving dynamics, real-world practicality and class-leading fuel-efficiency puts the X3 head-and-shoulders above its competitors,” said Mr Horton.
Two engine variants are available in Australia from launch. The entry-level price point for the BMW X3 will remain $62,200* for the BMW X3 xDrive20d, while the six-cylinder petrol engine-powered BMW X3 xDrive28i is priced from $71,900*.
A range-topping diesel variant, the BMW X3 xDrive30d, will be priced from $74,900* and will arrive in Australia later in the year.
All three models represent substantial increases in value over the models they replace, with the BMW xDrive30d offering more than $10,000 in added value despite a $2,500 price reduction compared to the outgoing model.
Recently awarded “Off-Roader of the Year” just months after its official launch, the new BMW X3 has made an instant and lasting impression on fans of all-wheel-drive vehicles: readers of Germany’s Off Road magazine voted it their favourite in the “SUV” category. This accolade sees the new BMW X3 following in the tyre tracks of its predecessor model, which was voted “Off-Roader of the Year” twice in succession – in 2006 and 2007, making the BMW X3 the new benchmark in its class.
The design: Elegance, flowing lines and the typically eye-catching design cues of a BMW xDrive model.
The body design of the new BMW X3 conveys urban elegance, durability and agility. The combination of a flat front end and a high rear end produces a dynamically formed wedge shape, hinting at the vehicle’s sporting characteristics. Convex and concave surfaces are accentuated with, giving the car body the appearance of a meticulously modelled sculpture. The BMW X-specific black bordering on the lower edge of the car body of the new BMW X3 displays a subtle but distinct design.
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 bonnet boasting six contour lines sweeping down to meet at the kidney grill, create a powerful road presence. Together with the round headlights, the fog lamps, which are positioned far towards the outside, form the triangular 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 Bi-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. Powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and the instrument panel are an indication of four-wheel drive technology and emphasise the robust character of the Sports Activity Vehicle. The dynamic appearance of the silhouette is additionally accentuated by three characteristic lines.
The new BMW X3’s brand-typical contour line at door handle level rises steeply at first within the front wheel arch area, then to flow gently to the rear end. Two less pronounced lines follow the course of the line above the wheel arches.
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, which are located far to the outside, have a distinctive T shape that is characteristic of the BMW X3.
Combined with optional Bi-Xenon light, LED light banks reflect a
typical BMW night-time design.
Roof rails in Aluminium satinated
are standard across the range, and serve to further emphasis the sportiness
of these vehicles. In addition, the X3 xDrive30d now includes the
specifically designed X Line package as standard, comprising moulding for
window frames and side sills in satinated aluminium, bumpers with front and
rear titanium-look inserts, stainless steel luggage compartment loading
sill and door sills with BMW Designation, adding a further individual
option cost saving of $1,200.
Interior: Premium ambience, intelligent functionality.
Generous and variable space, 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.
The horizontal orientation of the instrument panel accentuates the
increased space and width of the interior. Brand-typical driver orientation
is emphasised by the asymmetrically designed centre console. The raised
seating position facilitates convenient entry, whilst allowing an easier
driver view of the traffic. The control display of the optional operating
system BMW iDrive is harmoniously integrated into the instrument panel,
with the generous 6.5 inch screen now being standard across the range. 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
Load space is the largest in the class, and a high degree of variability in the interior mean the BMW X3 sets the benchmark in terms of practicality. A “40/20/40” split of the rear seats allows complete flexibility in the load-carrying capabilities of the new X3. Luggage space is a generous 550 litres, expandable to 1600 litres.
Compared to its predecessor, the new BMW X3 is lengthened by 83mm to 4,648mm, with width increasing by 28 mm to 1,881 mm and height by 12 mm to 1,661 mm. These dimensions allow the X3 to sit exactly between the BMW X5 and the BMW X1 in size.
There are ten exterior colour choices for the new BMW X3, for the first time on an X3 including metallic variants, being Vermillion Red, Sparkling Bronze and Bluewater. The colour Carbon Black metallic is also debuting on the X3, available exclusively in conjunction with the M Sports Package.
Interior colours can be selected according to individual taste, using a combination of black and beige with the trims of standard Satin Silver matt or no cost options Fine Brushed Aluminium, fine-wood Fineline Wave and Fineline Siena.
On the X3 xDrive20d, standard seat upholstery is Sensatec in the colours of Black or Beige, with leather Nevada standard on X3 xDrive28i and 30d (optional for X3 xDrive20d) in the choice of Beige, Havanna/Black, Oyster/Black, Red Brown/Black and Black.
The typical BMW xDrive experience: the ideal balance between agility
and comfort.
Road performance of the BMW X3 is characterised by
stability, neutral self-steering properties, supreme traction and
noticeably enhanced driving comfort compared to the predecessor model.
Agility, which is unparalleled within the competitive environment, is the
result of a well-balanced 50:50 weight distribution between the front and
rear axles, an entirely newly developed suspension including electric power
steering and the dynamically optimised intelligent four-wheel drive concept
BMW xDrive.
In conjunction with optional Dynamic Damper Control, it is now possible for the first time to vary the suspension setting on a BMW X3 model according to each driving style and the current situation at the push of a button using the Dynamic Drive Control function.
Intelligent four-wheel drive concept BMW xDrive: Supremacy on any
terrain and improved directional stability in bends.
The new BMW X3
features permanent four-wheel drive technology xDrive as standard. The
electronically controlled system ensures variable distribution of torque
between the front and rear axles. The control system, which is linked to
the DSC Dynamic Stability Control, counteracts any tendency to oversteer or
understeer through prompt and precise response. By means of innovative
configuration designed to enhance driving dynamics, intelligent four-wheel
drive technology optimises not only traction, but above all, handling in
bends. Even during steady cornering, a higher degree of torque is
transferred to the rear wheels. With optional Performance Control, the
vehicle’s agile handling can be enhanced even further. Targeted
braking of the rear wheel nearest the inside of the bend coupled with a
simultaneous increase in engine output ensures particularly spontaneous and
precise steering behaviour. This leads to enhanced dynamics in bends as
well as best possible traction.
The new BMW X3 also features completely redeveloped suspension technology. The combination of a double-joint spring-strut axle at the front and a multi-link rear axle offers the ideal prerequisites for optimising agility and driving comfort to an equal degree. A sports-oriented suspension is available as an option.
Included as standard, Electric Power Steering (EPS) with Servotronic is ncorporated in a BMW xDrive model for the first time, and contributes significantly towards precise handling. Furthermore, the system, whose power is generated by an electric motor, promotes the vehicle’s efficiency. Its electric motor only uses energy when power steering is required. The Servotronic function ensures power assisted steering according to speed. Newly devised and optionally available Variable Sports Steering reduces the degree of steering movement necessary to turn the front wheels. As a result, parking and cornering becomes simple and safe as less steering effort is required. In contrast, the steering precision characteristic of BMW is guaranteed at high speeds. Each demand-controlled steering ratio is created in this system by means of a variable rack and pinion setup.
The highly efficient braking system featuring large, internally ventilated discs at the front and rear as well as DSC ensure the highest degree of active safety. The functional range of DSC includes, inter alia, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X) and Hill Descent Control for controlled downhill driving.
Individual suspension settings: Bespoke sportiness and comfort.
A frther option for the new BMW X3 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. Apart from damper behaviour, accelerator pedal progression, engine response, the characteristic map of the power steering, DSC response thresholds and the gearshift dynamics of the automatic transmission are influenced. All factors are combined into a coherent overall setup.
The new benchmark in efficiency and power, with unmatched dynamics.
There will be a choice of two highly modern power units for the
new BMW X3 when it is launched in Australia, and both versions are leaders
in the segment. The new BMW X3 xDrive20d convinces with the lowest fuel
consumption and CO2 emission levels in its class, whilst the new BMW X3
xDrive28i fascinates with by far the sportiest driving performance, in
relation to which remarkably low fuel consumption is achieved. Available
after the launch, the range-topping X3 xDrive30d features a best-in-class
three-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine which produces an
astonishing burst of power and torque backed with very low consumption
figures.
Exemplary efficiency: The new BMW X3 xDrive20d.
The new BMW
X3 xDrive20d now offers better performance and higher efficiency than any
of its comparable rivals. It is powered by a two-litre, four-cylinder
turbocharged diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct
injection. It generates a maximum output of 135 kW at 4,000 rpm and a
maximum torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The generated pulling
power permits acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top
speed of 210 km/h.
The BMW X3 xDrive20d sets a new benchmark in efficiency in its vehicle segment with an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle, resulting in a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a CO2 emission level of 149 grams per kilometre. CO2 emission level is 147 grams per kilometre, topping its segment for emissions efficiency.
The efficiency characteristics of the four-cylinder diesel engine are optimised through innovative vibration damping technology. By means of the centrifugal-force pendulum, predominantly within the lower engine speed range, damping capacity of the two-mass flywheel is noticeably increased. This unique technology enables the driver to change to the next highest gear significantly earlier. Comfortable motoring at low engine speeds lowers fuel consumption, whilst mechanical strain on the powertrain is reduced along with vibration.
Athletic and majestic: The new BMW X3 xDrive28i.
Spontaneous
response, high-revving characteristics, outstanding running smoothness and
an efficiency that is unique in this performance class characterise the
power unit featured in the BMW X3 xDrive28i.
The powerful X3 xDrive28i boasts a smooth in-line six-cylinder three-litre engine which produces 190 kW of power and a maximum torque of 310 Nm whilst consuming fuel at a highly efficient rate of just 9.0 litres per 100km (EU) , and powering from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.9 seconds. The double-VANOS ensures an ideal torque curve at all engine speeds, with Valvetronic allowing the engine to breathe easily and efficiently.
The perfect all-rounder, a portrait of power and efficiency; The new
BMW X3 xDrive30d.
The range-topping BMW X3 xDrive30d features a
best-in-class three-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, producing a
maximum output of 190 kW at 4,000 rpm, and a massive 560 Nm of torque at as
low as 2,000-2,750 rpm. The car accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just
6.2 seconds, yet EU fuel consumption is just 6.0 litres/100 km.
BMW EfficientDynamics in the new BMW X3: Premiere for Auto Start Stop
function in conjunction with automatic transmission.
The new BMW X3
features completely new eight-speed automatic transmission, meaning smaller
gear steps and smoother changes, allowing the driver and passengers to
enjoy responsive and sleek acceleration, and greater comfort. In addition
to these benefits, the eight-speed transmission feature allows for greater
efficiency, as the engine runs at an optimal speed for longer, reducing
both fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Also unique within the competitive environment, the new BMW X3 xDrive20d and X3 xDrive30d feature the Auto Start/Stop function in conjunction with four and six-cylinder diesel engines and the eight-speed automatic transmission for the first time.
This function means that when stopping at road junctions or in a traffic jam, the engine is automatically switched off. As soon as the driver takes his or her foot off the brake pedal, the engine restarts. If the Auto Hold function is activated, brief pressure on the accelerator is sufficient. Furthermore, the efficiency of all model variants is increased, through Brake Energy Regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, on-demand control of ancillary components, rear axle with optimised warm-up behaviour, intelligent lightweight construction, optimised aerodynamics and tyres with reduced rolling resistance on the X3 xDrive20d 17-inch wheels.
Safety, spaciousness and luxury for all passengers as well as the
driver.
With outstanding capabilities in the most diverse
disciplines, the new BMW X3 puts on a convincing performance as an
all-round talent.
Powerful and efficient engines, increased agility with optimised comfort and four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive with its supreme off-road characteristics facilitate uncompromising driving pleasure. Moreover, the new BMW X3’s versatility is expressed not only in terms of road performance, but also in the utilisation of the available interior space.
No other vehicle in the segment offers a more generous amount of space, and storage volume variability is unrivalled within the competitive environment. With increased exterior dimensions compared with the predecessor model, a wheel base widened by 15 mm to 2,810 mm and a track width increased by 92 mm the new X3 is both spacious and welcoming. Both driver and front seat passenger enjoy increased interior width, which also offers outstanding comfort to rear seat passengers on three seats over long distances with significantly more leg and elbow room. Both at the front and at the back, the new BMW X3 has a multitude of large storage spaces and shelves. Large side pockets in the door panels provide space for 1.5-litre bottles at the front and 1-litre bottles at the back, with cupholders on the centre console rounding off the intelligent storage layout.
Interior and luggage compartment: The ideal size for any situation.
With a volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres, the luggage
compartment of the new BMW X3 is unrivalled in its segment. Variability is
featured, with the rear seat backrest able to be split at a ratio of 40 :
20 : 40, whereby the three sections can be folded down individually or
together. In this way, luggage compartment volume can be extended step by
step as required. If all seats are used, it is possible to store four
46-inch golf bags inside the luggage compartment. After folding down the
centre and one outer section of the rear seat backrest, three occupants and
their mountain bikes with the front wheels removed can be comfortably
accommodated.
Utmost protection and safety: Robust occupant compartment, six
airbags, active headrests.
Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X3
features a body with extremely high torsional stiffness, precisely defined
support structures and large-dimensioned deformation zones. Safety features
comprise front and pelvic thorax airbags, side curtain head airbags,
three-point automatic seatbelts on all seats, belt force limiters, belt
latch tensioners and active front.
High pedestrian protection standards are maintained thanks to corresponding deformation zones at the front end of the vehicle. Moreover, the bonnet of the BMW X3 features energy-absorbing deformation zones and elastic hinge kinematics. Dynamic brake lights warn drivers behind in an emergency braking situation.
BMW ConnectedDrive providing smart networking choices and a
convenience at your fingertips.
With an unparalleled choice of
driver assistance systems and mobility services offered by BMW
ConnectedDrive, the pleasure of driving the new BMW X3 is increased even
further. BMW ConnectedDrive optimises motoring comfort, safety and the use
of infotainment services through targeted networking between the driver,
the vehicle and the environment. Apart from top-class driver assistance
systems, emergency calling, vehicle information, enquiry and office
services, travel and leisure time planning and Internet, the new BMW X3
features innovative technologies for the integration of the Apple iPhone
and other smartphones as well as other mobile end devices that enable the
use of additional office functions and audio streaming via Bluetooth.
Unique in the segment: Optional Head-up Display and Top View.
The new BMW X3 is the only vehicle in its class to feature optional
Head-Up Display. Driver-related information such as current speed, warning
messages of the driver assistance systems, check control or navigational
instructiuons is projected onto the windscreen in an ergonomically-friendly
display sitting immediately within the driver’s field of vision.
A Rear View Camera is now a standard feature across the new BMW X3 range which offers effortless parking and safe maneuvering. Moreover, the reversing camera can be combined with the optional Top View system, thereby utilising two additional cameras in the side mirrors. The overall image generated according to the recorded vehicle data and its environment is displayed on the control monitor, showing the vehicle and its environment from a bird’s eye view. Top View camera is unique in the medium SAV segment.
In conjunction with optional Bi-Xenon headlights, the new BMW X3 can be equipped with Adaptive Headlights including cornering light and dynamic auto-levelling headlights. Adaptive Headlights ensure that the road is sufficiently illuminated when taking bends. Each turning direction of the headlights is effected in relation to steering angle, yaw rate and vehicle speed. With the aid of the fog lamps, an additional light cone illuminates the road in the direction the vehicle is travelling when cornering.
Additional safety at night is ensured by the also optional High-Beam Assist. This system automatically switches the high beam on or off according to the prevailing traffic situation.
Innovative extended connectivity of Bluetooth/USB with Voice Control
In addition to the standard Bluetooth and USB connection, this
option extends the connectivity of the Bluetooth/USB device and includes
Voice Control.
Depending on the features of the Bluetooth device itself, additional
functions are available on top of the standard Bluetooth/USB system,
including the following:
Exclusivity with individual flair: Premium options and accessories
The premium character of the new BMW X3 is underlined by the
extensive range of standard comfort features, which include automatic
climate control, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors,
leather-clad steering wheel, audio system with MP3-capable CD drive and
AUX-In connection, as well as an on-board computer.
In addition, the new X3 xDrive28i and X3 xDrive30d now both feature electric seat adjustment for driver and passenger as standard, 18 inch alloy wheels, with Automatic Tailgate operation and X Line also standard on the X3 xDrive30d.
As soon as the car key is taken inside the new BMW X3, it is sufficient to press the Start/Stop button in order to start the engine, a function named Comfort Go, which is included as standard across the range. The available optional equipment includes automatically dimming exterior and rear view mirrors, high-end audio systems, the navigation systems Business, Professional with hard disc storage and Automatic Tailgate operation. A panorama sunroof with electrically operated front glass section and inner lining provides the desired amount of light and fresh air.
Dynamic appearance: M Sports Package for the new BMW X3.
The
M Sports Package for the new BMW X3, available from June 2011, comprises
attractive components for areas such as suspension, aerodynamics, exterior
and interior with which the outstanding dynamics of the Sports Activity
Vehicle can be further optimised and also visually enhanced.
The package includes the M aerodynamics package, exhaust tailpipes with chrome tips, BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line for the side window surrounds and the roof rails. Body components of the M aerodynamics package for the front end, sides and rear end are painted in body colour, the rear apron trim is finished in Dark Shadow metallic.
A sports suspension and 18-inch M light alloys as well as Performance Control for the four-wheel drive system xDrive increase the Sports Activity Vehicle’s dynamic handling potential. Sports seats (in a fabric/leather trim on the BMW X3 xDrive20d and standard Nevada leather on remaining variants) , an M steering wheel with multi-function buttons including Cruise Control, doorsills with the M logo provide the interior of the new BMW X3 featuring the M Sports Package with the prerequisites for even more driving pleasure. The premium-class sporting ambience is rounded off by the BMW Anthracite roofliner, Fine Brushed Aluminium interior trims and a stainless steel trim insert for the luggage compartment sill.
These generous option packages are available for $4,800 on the X3 xDrive20d; $4,100 on the X3 xDrive28i; and just $3,000 on the X3 xDrive30d.
Enhanced production efficiencies at BMW Spartanburg plant
(USA).
Start of production of the new BMW X3 was preceded by a
substantial extension of the BMW Spartanburg plant situated in the US
Federal State of South Carolina. Spartanburg production now compromises the
new BMW X3, the BMW X5 and the BMW X6. As a result, the BMW Spartanburg
plant, which was in put into operation in 1994, has strengthened its
significance as a competence centre.
