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Next-gen X3 for SA: Details

BMW's third-generation X5 has just gone on sale in South Africa. Details from Germany reveal what's in store for the next version of its smaller brother, the X3.

The refreshed X3 has design tweaks, a new diesel engine option and a rear-wheel drive variant. What's more, there's loads of new technology as well as an M Sport and Sport Plus version.

IMAGE GALLERY: BMW X3

According to BMW SA, the new X3 will arrive locally in July 2015 with the following engines; xDrive28i, xDrive35i, xDrive 30d and xDrive20d.

The new X3 sport’s BMW’s next-generation TwinPower turbo diesels with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Depending on the engine variant specified, the new BMW X3 can be ordered with a six-speed manual or a eight-speed auto (standard on the xDrive30d and xDrive35d).

An eight-speed sport auto with shift paddles is also available as an option. All models now feature an increase in the amount of standard kit, much of it already used on the just launched X5.

POWER

Under the bonnet, there's a new generation of the automaker’s two litre, four-cylinder, diesel engines. The xDrive20d now produces 140kW/400Nm  (up from 135kW/380Nm), mated to an eight-speed auto. BMW claims its new xDrive20d is 7% more fuel efficient at 5.2 litres/100km,  has reduced emissions of 38g/km and is 0.4 seconds quicker from 0-100km/h (8.1).

The top of range models have an updated version of the automaker’s three-litre six-cylinder diesels including the 190kW/560Nm xDrive30d and 230kW/630Nm xDrive35d variants. Fuel consumption has dropped by 0.1 litres/100km for each 3.0 diesel-powered model to a claimed 5.9 and six respectively.

TWO- OR ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

The BMW X3 18d is available in sDrive form, while all other variants come with xDrive as standard.

Models equipped with xDrive have access to a new display featuring three-dimensional graphics that informs the driver of the SUV's body roll and pitch.

DESIGN TWEAKS

At the front, the circular headlights now extend to touch the widened, chromed grille, a design change to make the X3 more in line with its 3 and 4 Series siblings (LEDs are now optional, as well).

The front bumper has reshaped cooling ducts and the rear bumper gains metal trim. Side mirrors now have integrated LEDs. The SUV also grows by 1cm in length (4.6m).

The interior benefits from chromed and black trim on the centre console and new upholstery designs. The X3 can be kitted out with the automaker’s latest tech, including a new parking assistant, active driving assistant with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front collision warning, pedestrian warning and city collision mitigation.

XLINE, SE AND M SPORT

The new X3 is available in SE, xLine and M Sport trim. SE models are equipped with leather upholstery, dual aircon, cruise control, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, 17”, front and rear PDC, drive performance control, rain sensor and auto headlights.

Standard kit has been improved with the inclusion of the BMW Business navigation system, heatable front seats and an auto tailgate.

The optional SE Plus package adds Harman-Kardon speakers, sun protection glass, adaptive deadlights, high-beam assist and a 1” increase in alloy size.
 
The new xLine models are equipped with metal inserts in the bumpers, aluminium side cladding and bars in the air intakes and 18” alloys. The interior has exclusive xLine leather, copper trim and a sport leather steering wheel.

The M Sport variant has aerodynamic styling, upgraded exterior trim and 19” alloys (previously 18”). Inside, there’s anthracite roof-lining, sport seats, M Sport leather steering wheel and aluminium trim. The model also benefits from the automaker’s performance control and M Sport suspension.

Customer’s can also choose the optional M Sport Plus, which adds 20” colour alloys, xenons, sun-protection glass and Harman-Kardon speakers.

The new BMW X3 will on sale globally in June 2014 priced from the equivalent of R560 000 for an X3 sDrive18d SE.

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