The new BMW X3

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.