PressClub Global · Article.
The new BMW X3
Tue Sep 05 19:00:00 CEST 2006 Press Kit
+++Six-cylinder petrol engines with magnesium/aluminium crankcase, 160 kW/218 hp and, respectively, 200 kW/272 hp maximum output+++All-aluminium six-cylinder diesel engines with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors+++Six-cylinder top-of-the-range diesel with VTT and 210 kW/286 hp maximum output+++Six-speed automatic transmission with new dynamic gearshift+++Further enhanced: Integrated Chassis Management+++DSC Dynamic Stability Control with additional functions+++Exterior design expressing agility and quality all in one+++Functional and modern: sophisticated ambience inside the car.
Press Contact.
Andreas Lampka
BMW Group
Tel: +49-89-382-23662
send an e-mail
Author.
Andreas Lampka
BMW Group
1. Fresh Power for the Achiever. The new BMW X3. (Short Version) 2. The Concept: Fascinating Combination of Agility and Versatility. 3. Design: Unmistakable, Striking, Dynamic. 4. Interior: Versatile, Practical, Refined. 5. Power Units: Maximum Muscle, Enormous Efficiency. 6. Manual Gearbox and Automatic Transmission: Quick and Comfortable. 7. All-Wheel Drive: Spreading out Power the Intelligent Way. 8. Chassis and Suspension: Stable Foundation, Innovative Control Systems. 9. Bodyshell and Safety: Aerodynamic Outside, Robust Inside. 10. Equipment: Attractive Options for Supreme Demands. 11. Production: Strong Partnership for Great Quality. 12. Specifications and Output Diagrams. 13. Exterior and Interior Dimensions.
Offering a unique combination of agility and versatility, the new BMW X3 is
continuing its predecessor's unique story of success. Powerful new engines,
fresh design and a sophisticated interior make BMW's Sports Activity Vehicle
(SAV) already widely lauded for its outstanding agility and driving dynamics
even more attractive than before.
With its wide range of features and new technologies, the new BMW X3 has
everything it takes to further expand its exceptional position as a premium
offer in its segment. Specific modifications at the front, rear and side give
the new BMW X3 even more dynamic character, while the interior is dominated by
particularly sophisticated materials, flowing lines, and stylish colour schemes.
Additional driving dynamics on country roads, in city traffic and off the
beaten track is guaranteed by new power units delivering their muscle smoothly
to the road by way of BMW xDrive permanent all-wheel drive with variable power
distribution.
The top engine featured in the new BMW X3 is the second generation of
the world's most sporting and dynamic diesel: The newly developed 3.0-litre
straight-six featured in the BMW X3 3.0sd boasts Variable Twin Turbo (VTT)
technology for maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp (10 kW/14 hp more than on the
first-generation VTT diesel) and peak torque of 580 Newton-metres or 427 lb-ft
(+ 20Nm).
The new BMW X3 also features BMW's new generation of straight-six
petrol engines displacing 3.0 and, respectively, 2.5 litres. Boasting a
composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase, VALVETRONIC and bi-VANOS, these
engines deliver maximum output of 200 kW/272 hp (+ 30 kW/41 hp over the
previous engine) and, respectively, 160 kW/218 hp (+ 19 kW/26 hp).
Even more effective and faster interaction of BMW's intelligent xDrive
all-wheel drive with DSC Dynamic Stability Control and engine management is
ensured on all engine variants by Integrated Chassis Managements (ICM) with its
optimised computer technology.
Dynamic performance borne out by powerful design.
New design and body features at the front and rear of the BMW X3 provide an
even more intense expression of the vehicle's striking and dynamic looks. Both
front and rear, the bumpers are clearly separated into two levels and are
finished largely in body colour, again emphasising the sophisticated and
sporting but elegant appearance of the new BMW X3. Only the protection elements
particularly exposed to impacts are made of robust plastic.
A particular feature of all BMW X models is their so-called "six-eye face" -
and on the new BMW X3 this very special face is characterised by new dual
circular headlights with their light sources and reflectors housed beneath a
clear glass cover. This look is further enhanced by foglamps arranged on one
line extending diagonally to the outside from the main headlights to the
wheels. Again, this particular configuration supports the impression of a
dynamic vehicle crouching powerfully on the road, and is further enhanced
by the painted front air dam beneath the outer bumper.
Having grown in size and featuring grid rods varying in colour depending on the
model variant, the BMW kidney grille is a particularly outstanding highlight
bound to catch the eye.
New rear light clusters with clear glass covers on LED-fed horizontal light
rods ensure powerful and striking night design, while also giving the new BMW
X3 a clear sign of distinction during the day. Another characteristic factor is
the horizontal lines stretching out in a dominating look from the tailgate all
the way down to the bumper and accentuating the powerful stance of the new BMW
X3 also from this angle.
Viewed from the side, the BMW X3 stands out clearly through its discreet wedge
shape further enhanced by the lower character line. This specific contour line
is taken up in the lower side area of the front and rear air dams, giving
further emphasis to the sleek, stretched and dynamic look of the vehicle.
Top-quality materials and refined design in the interior.
The harmonious lines of the new BMW X3 extend smoothly into and within the
interior, with a gentle flow of shapes and transitions from one section to the
other. The high level of quality applied in choosing and finishing all
materials comes out clearly and tangibly in all details, superior function and
refined design providing a perfect match.
The instrument panel is characterised above all by new decorative trim taking
up the colour and materials of the trim on the centre console. Galvanised metal
on the door handles and controls, exclusive leather and cloth options,
harmonious colour schemes and patterns in the roof lining, as well as
high-quality synthetic surfaces with a classy grain finish reflect the
character of the interior both sophisticated and elegant all in one.
New three-spoke steering wheels and generous storage boxes integrated in the
door linings further enhance the supreme impression of high quality.
A choice of no less than four levels of equipment, ten paintwork colours, six
interior colours, and five trim options gives the customer absolute freedom in
personalising his or her new BMW X3. And last but not least, the material
chosen for the seat upholstery is also used consistently on the centre console,
the armrests and in the door linings.
Premiere: a diesel right at the top.
The new BMW X3 is available with a choice of no less than three petrol and
three diesel engines. In all cases, these new six-cylinders combine
more power with greater torque, reduced weight, and enhanced efficiency.
The entry-level power unit in both petrol and diesel guise is a four-cylinder,
with the particular performance characteristics of all engine variants making a
significant contribution to the agile driving behaviour of BMW's very special
SAV.
Yet a further, truly unique feature in engine technology is that the BMW X3 is
the first BMW to feature a diesel power unit right at the top of the engine
range, with BMW's new 3.0-litre straight-six diesel enhanced by Variable Twin
Turbo (VTT) technology making its debut in the BMW X3 3.0sd.
Unique torque and output thanks to Variable Twin Turbo.
The new BMW X3 3.0sd is powered by the most sporting and dynamic
six-cylinder diesel ever available in a production car: The second generation
of BMW's top-end diesel now developing maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp features
Variable Twin Turbo (VTT) technology introduced by BMW in 2004 as the world's
first car maker in the BMW 535d.
Also referred to as two-stage turbocharging, this technology incorporates
both a small turbocharger cutting in at lower engine speeds and an additional
turbocharger activated for growing power and performance requirements. Maximum
torque now raised to an even more significant 580 Nm or 427 lb-ft is maintained
consistently from 1,750-2,250 rpm.
This supreme power and muscle also comes out clearly in the performance
of the new BMW X3 3.0sd: Acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h comes
in just 6.6 seconds, top speed is a most significant 240 km/h or
149 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is nevertheless a very
economical 8.7 litres of diesel fuel for 100 kilometres, equal to 32.5 mpg Imp.
And last but not least, particle filters and an oxidation catalyst ensure
highly effective emission management and control at all times.
New 3.0-litre diesel engines: powerful and light.
One of the reasons for the outstanding efficiency of BMW's top-end diesel
is the reduction in weight by 25 kilos and introduction of the latest
generation of common-rail direct fuel injection complete with piezo injectors.
These two factors also benefit the 3.0-litre straight-six diesel in the
BMW X3 3.0d likewise featuring an all-aluminium crankcase and piezo injectors
in the fuel injection system. The increase in injection pressure to 1,600 bar
ensures a particularly fast and efficient charge effect in the combustion
chambers, and the combination of this superior technology
with a turbocharger featuring variable turbine geometry (VTG) provides maximum
output of 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 500 Nm or 369 lb-ft.
The new BMW X3 3.0d accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed
of 210 km/h or 130 mph. Special V-class tyres available as an option from the
factory allow an even higher top speed of 220 km/h or 136 mph,
for even greater superiority on fast routes.
Returning average fuel consumption in the EU cycle of 7.9 litres diesel/
100 kilometres (equal to 35.8 mpg Imp), the new BMW X3 3.0d also offers maximum
efficiency. And it almost goes without saying that this model
likewise comes as standard with a particulates filter fitted close to the
engine.
The new BMW X3 2.0d is an even more outstanding example of superior economy:
Featuring a four-cylinder power unit with common-rail fuel injection,
this model's maximum output is 110 kW/150 hp, with torque peaking
at 330 Nm or 243 lb-ft all the way from 2,000-2,500 rpm. Acceleration to
100 km/h is in 10.2 seconds, and the top speed of the BMW X3 2.0d
is 198 km/h or 123 mph, on average fuel consumption of just 7.2 litres/
100 kilometres or 39.2 mpg Imp. Here again, a particulates filter comes
as standard on BMW's four-cylinder diesel.
Petrol engines: more power, less weight.
The particularly light, fast-revving and efficient straight-six petrol engines
in the new BMW X3 comes in two displacement and performance levels.
Both engines boast a composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase, variable
VALVETRONIC valve control, and a coolant pump controlled and masterminded on
demand. And weighing just 165 kilos or 364 lb, these out¬standing power units
also contribute to the well-balanced distribution
of axle loads and, accordingly, to the excellent agility and driving dynamics
of the BMW X3.
The new BMW X3 3.0si features a 3.0-litre six-cylinder developing maximum
output of 200 kW/272 hp and peak torque of 315 Nm or 232 lb-ft. Acceleration
from 0-100 km/h comes in just 7.2 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h or 130
mph on standard tyres and an even more impressive 232 km/h or 144 mph on
optional V-class tyres available from the factory.
Delivering average fuel consumption in the EU cycle of 10.1 litres/100 km or
28.0 mpg Imp, the BMW X3 3.0si offers a level of economy quite exemplary in
this performance category.
The 2.5-litre six-cylinder in the BMW X3 2.5si develops maximum output of 160
kW/218 hp and peak torque of 250 Nm or 184 lb-ft. The result is acceleration to
100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, and a top speed of 210 km/h or
130 mph (221 km/h or 137 mph on V-class tyres). Average fuel consumption in the
EU cycle, in turn, is 9.9 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 28.5 mpg Imp.
The 2.0-litre power unit featured in the new BMW X3 2.0i is the only
four-cylinder in the world to feature VALVETRONIC variable valve control.
Two other equally outstanding features are bi-VANOS variable camshaft
management and BMW's DISA variable intake manifold.
Benefiting from these technologies, the BMW X3 2.0i offers an exceptionally
high standard of performance, smoothness and efficiency for a four-cylinder.
Acceleration to 100 km/h, in turn, comes in 11.5 seconds, and the top
speed of the new BMW X3 2.0i is 198 km/h or 123 mph. And average fuel
consumption in the EU cycle, finally, is 9.3 litres/100 kilometres,
equal to 30.4 mpg Imp.
New automatic transmission for superior dynamics, efficiency,
and comfort.
With the exception of the BMW X3 3.0sd, all versions of BMW's new SAV come as
standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic transmission complete
with Steptronic available as an option also features six gears for extra
convenience.
Automatic transmission is standard on the new top model in BMW's SAV model
series, the BMW X3 3.0sd, where an automatic transmission developed especially
to interact with an extra-powerful engine ensures appropriate
choice of the right driving gear at all times. Hence, the new six-speed
auto¬matic transmission handles this task at incomparable speed and with
outstanding precision and efficiency.
New converter technology and particularly powerful software serve to
reduce reaction and gearshift times compared with a conventional automatic
transmission by up to 50 per cent. And thanks to the direct gear search
function, even the process of skipping one or several gears when shifting down
does not require any additional time.
Through its exceptionally dynamic shifting process and direct interaction
with the engine, the new six-speed automatic transmission brings out all the
sporting and active qualities of the new BMW X3 3.0sd to a truly unprecedented
level. And at the same time it is simply perfect for comfortable, relaxed and
efficient cruising at low engine speeds.
Permanent all-wheel drive the intelligent way: BMW xDrive.
The new BMW X3 owes its all-round potential largely to BMW's permanent,
intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensuring fully variable front-to-rear
power distribution through its exceptionally fast and precise reaction. Via a
power divider complete with an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch,
BMW xDrive feeds the power of the engine precisely to where it can be
used best and with maximum effect. The result is not only maximum traction on
difficult terrain, but also superior driving dynamics, with the system
counteracting any over- or understeer in bends right from the start.
The differential lock function, in turn, is ensured by the brakes intervening
on any of the wheels threatening to spin.
Power distribution 40 : 60 in normal driving situations.
In normal driving situations engine power is divided 40 : 60 front-to-
rear for optimum smoothness and performance. And then xDrive responds
immediately to any change in surface conditions or driving dynamics
by modifying the ratio of power distribution accordingly. On surfaces varying
extremely in their frictional coefficient from front-to-rear, for example,
BMW xDrive is able to re-direct almost the entire drive power of the engine
instantaneously to one single axle.
Another advantage of the system is its ability to counteract oversteer in fast
bends by closing the multiple-plate clutch tighter and feeding additional power
to the front wheels in the interest of optimum driving stability.
Enhanced to an even higher standard: Integrated Chassis Management.
To ensure such fast and precise reaction, xDrive all-wheel drive, DSC Dynamic
Stability Control, and engine management are connected to one another
by Integrated Chassis Management. With the suspension control sensors also
feeding xDrive with the data required for determining current driving
conditions, xDrive is able to respond proactively, as it were, in order to
stabilise the vehicle at all times.
With its new control philosophy, Integrated Chassis Management ensures even
faster and more precise coordination of xDrive and DSC. While so far
the behaviour of the vehicle was influenced almost independently by engine and
brake management, on the one hand, and the management of longitudinal forces,
on the other, these three control cycles now operate in parallel. So while the
management of longitudinal forces masterminds the division of engine power
front-to-rear, brake management is able to intervene individually on each
wheel, applying the brakes appropriately in the interest
of optimum traction and driving dynamics.
Engine management, in turn, is able to reduce or increase drive power whenever
required.
Forming such a precise network with DSC, BMW xDrive ensures a fast
and precise response to any change in driving conditions and, as a result,
an even higher standard of driving dynamics.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control with additional functions.
The new BMW X3 features an even more sophisticated system of Dynamic Stability
Control now enhanced by numerous additional functions: BMW's new DSC not only
ensures superior driving stability and traction, but also optimises the effect
of the brakes by increasing brake pressure as required in response to even the
slightest fading under extremely high brake temperatures.
Building up moderate brake pressure at an early point in time, the system also
enhances brake standby in situations likely to require spontaneous application
of the brakes. Regular Dry Braking, in turn, a function activated automatically
as soon as the driver switches on the windscreen wipers, optimises brake
performance in the wet.
DBC Dynamic Brake Control, to present yet another example, automatically
maximises brake pressure in an emergency when the driver is required
to brake all-out. And last but not least, the Set-Off Assistant significantly
facilitates the process of setting off on an uphill gradient.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control also comprises the ABS anti-lock brake system,
ASC Automatic Stability Control, HDC Hill Descent Control, Trailer Stability
Control, and CBC Cornering Brake Control preventing the vehicle
from swerving whenever the driver applies the brakes lightly in a bend.
DTC featured for the first time also in a BMW X model.
DTC Dynamic Traction Control also included in the new DSC system likewise
enhances the superior driving dynamics of the new BMW X3. With DTC raising the
thresholds for intervention by the engine and the brakes to a higher level, the
BMW X3 is able to set off smoothly under difficult conditions
such as loose snow, intentionally allowing the drive wheels to slightly spin.
DTC also allows a particularly sporting and active style of motoring by
offering the driver higher lateral acceleration all the way to a light and
controllable
drift in bends. Pressing down the DTC button somewhat longer, the driver is
able to completely deactivate DSC, as on BMW's other models. In that
case all that remains is a transverse lock function with the brakes intervening
on the wheel spinning.
The new BMW X3 comes as standard on 17-inch light-alloy wheels,
the BMW X3 3.0sd featuring even larger 18-inch wheels as standard.
Various other light-alloy wheels measuring 18 and even 19 inches are also
available as an option, while the Tyre Defect Indicator likewise fitted
as standard informs the driver in good time of any loss of tyre pressure.
Generous and safe: the bodyshell of the new BMW X3.
With its solid body structure and complete range of retention and safety
systems masterminded by a central electronic control unit, the new BMW X3
offers passive safety of the highest standard.
High-strength longitudinal arms and crossbars, together with bolted-on
deformation units, ensure appropriate diversion and absorption of impact forces
in a collision from the front. The consequences of a side-on collision, in
turn, are minimised inter alia by diagonal door reinforcement bars with
high-strength steel profiles hooking on to the side frame in the event of
deformation for additional absorption of impact energy. As a result,
the passenger cell remains largely undamaged even in a severe collision.
Within the interior not only frontal and side airbags, but also curtain head
airbags at the side all come as standard, inflating out of the covers in
the A-pillars and roof lining and protecting both the front and rear occupants
from injury.
The new BMW X3 measures 4,569 millimetres or 179.9'' in length, 1,853
millimetres or 73.0'' in width, and 1,674 millimetres or 65.9'' in height - and
precisely these figures make BMW's five-door SAV absolutely ideal for many
purposes and requirements. As the more compact member of BMW's SAV model range,
the new BMW X3 combines supreme agility and
handling with generous and flexible space inside, offering everything required
for perfect versatility onroad and offroad.
Loading capacity beneath the luggage compartment cover is 480 litres or
16.8 cubic feet. The large tailgate opening far up for extra convenience and
the low loading sill make loading and unloading of even bulky objects an easy
exercise. And after folding down the asymmetrically split rear seat bench, the
luggage compartment offers maximum capacity of no less than 1,560 litres
or 54.6 cubic feet.
Features and equipment: from comprehensive to exclusive.
Apart from the wide range of colours, upholstery and trim surfaces, attractive
options and special features give the customer a wide range of choice in
personalising his or her new BMW X3. Sophisticated navigation and audio
systems, for example, ensure an even higher standard of travelling comfort
in the new BMW X3 enhanced to an even higher level by the BMW Assist telematics
service available as an option.
Bi-xenon headlights also available as an option provide optimum visibility at
night and add that special BMW look through the ring-shaped parking lights
included in the headlight units.
The headlights may also be combined with BMW's Adaptive Lights moving
in the right direction in bends and on winding roads for optimum illumination
of the road ahead. And last but not least, Bending Lights integrated in the
foglamps facilitate a change in direction at night as well as the process of
manoeuvring the vehicle at low speeds.
PDC Park Distance Control measures the distance to an obstacle in front of or
behind the vehicle. When parking, therefore, the driver, benefits from an
acoustic signal "telling" him the distance from the vehicle to an object in the
way.
Last but again not least, fresh air fans are able to enjoy their driving
pleasure in the new BMW X3 in a particularly attractive manner, with the
two-piece panorama roof measuring 0.65 square metres in size providing an
exceptionally generous view of the sky above.
Given its wide range of qualities, the BMW X3 has become an outstanding
achiever in international car markets. And indeed - virtually unlimited options
in the use of the vehicle, sporting and dynamic driving characteristics,
the stylish presence of the X3's body design, and superior quality of finish
make the new BMW X3 a genuine exception in the all-wheel-drive market.
In everyday traffic the new BMW X3 combines effortless handling with agile
driving characteristics. Five large and generous seats and a luggage
compartment able to handle even major loads underline the vehicle's all-round
qualities. And when driving in winter, off the beaten track or as a sturdy
vehicle towing a heavy trailer, the BMW X3 benefits from the offroad qualities
of its body structure, the chassis and suspension, as well as the traction
advantages of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
Versatility is therefore the big strength of the BMW X3 not only inside the
vehicle, but also in terms of driving features. So that, in a nutshell,
the new BMW X3 provides the foundation for superior mobility in all situations,
combining the joys of activity and spontaneity all in one.
Article Offline Attachments.
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