BMW announces UK prices and specifications for X3 Sports Activity Vehicle

Following the debut of the X3 Sports Activity Vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor
Show, BMW today reveals details of engine line-up, specifications and prices
for the UK market.

At launch in Spring 2004, the X3 will be available with either 3.0 or 2.5-litre
petrol engines. Priced at £32,015 on-the-road, the 3.0i SE promises a maximum
231 bhp, taking it from 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 130
mph, or 137 mph for the 3.0i Sport model* which also debuts at launch. An
impressive 300Nm torque is achieved at 3,500 rpm with drive delivered through a
standard 5-speed automatic gearbox. A manual gearbox will not be available on
X3 3.0i models.

Joining the 3.0-litre launch models will be the 2.5i SE, priced at £28,615
on-the-road, together with the 2.5i Sport. Powered by BMW's award-winning192
bhp six cylinder engine, the 2.5i develops 245 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Its
6-speed manual box comes as standard; an optional 5-speed automatic is also
available. Additional performance figures for the X3 2.5i SE and Sport will be
confirmed closer to launch.

BMW managing director Jim O'Donnell commented, "The new X3 represents the
latest in a line of segment-defining vehicles from BMW. It is the first premium
Sports Activity Vehicle in the compact/mid-size sector, and its appeal is
already reflected in advance orders for much of next year's allocation - a full
eight months before the UK launch. I expect the X3 to be another benchmark to
which our competitors aspire."

Sure footed
All models in the X3 range feature BMW's brand new four-wheel-drive system,
xDrive. Setting new standards in agility for four-wheel-drive, xDrive
distributes drive to the axle which most needs it in an instant, improving
stability, driving pleasure and safety. Fully variable, the system uses an
electrically activated multiple-plate clutch. This means it can respond more
quickly than more conventional systems, which require the build-up of hydraulic
pressure to change drive distribution.

In most circumstances xDrive is also able to intervene before any serious loss
of traction takes place, because it is constantly processing vehicle data from
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) sensors. These measure individual wheel speed,
steering angle, lateral acceleration and yaw rates and give xDrive its
'intelligence', allowing it to pre-empt problems rather than merely reacting to
situations where traction is lost.

As the multiple-plate clutch allows front and rear axles to be completely
disconnected, xDrive can also provide 100 per cent drive to the rear axle.

Helmut Riedl, Chassis Director BMW Group added, "xDrive is the perfect system
for maximising the driving enjoyment of BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles. Through
its variable distribution of drive, front-to-rear, it offers intelligent power
as an antidote to loss of control, rather than braking or power reduction via
DSC. xDrive keeps the fun in driving."

Controlled
Naturally DSC still functions, but 'intelligent' xDrive means it is needed less
frequently. While xDrive ensures optimum grip by channelling drive forces
axle-to-axle, DSC acts on individual wheels only where one starts to slip,
cutting power and, if necessary, applying brakes.

An additional function of DSC is Trailer Stability Control (TSC), which comes
as standard with factory fitted tow bars. TSC monitors any pendulum effect,
applying brakes if DSC detects undue yaw movement characterised by the vehicle
being overly-influenced by its trailer.

On steep downhill gradients Hill Descent Control (HDC) can be activated via a
dashboard mounted button, slowing the vehicle automatically to programmed
speeds between three and 16 mph, stabilizing it and reducing the risk of wheel
locking.

Well equipped
As well as impressive levels of standard equipment, which includes automatic
air conditioning and cruise control, the X3 comes with a range of options to
accompany the active lifestyles of its owners.

These include a choice of either Business or Professional navigation system,
the Professional system featuring map guidance within a dedicated 16:9 colour
widescreen monitor. Complementing the X3's capacious interior - and cavernous
480-litre boot - is an optional Panorama Roof, providing more light and better
views for passengers.

Adaptive Headlights can also be specified, making night driving safer and
easier. These respond to steering inputs and swivel by up to 15 degrees,
illuminating more of the road ahead as well as any potential hazards.

Three new exterior colours complete the picture - Flamenco Red, Highland Green
and Mocha Brown. These are complemented by new seat options including Leather
Ambiente in Grey, Black, Terracotta, Grey Blue and light Sand Beige. Interior
trim options feature slate grey, aluminium buffed finish and fine wood trims in
light birch grain and dark maple wood.

Note to editors:

* The high-speed set-up is standard on X3 Sport models. As well as sports seats
for driver and front passenger, leather sports steering wheel, individual
high-gloss satin chrome and anthracite head lining, its 18" alloy wheels come
with VR rated tyres. This means the top speed on the 3.0i, ordinarily
electronically limited to 130 mph for standard HR rated X3 tyres, is de-limited
to the car's natural top speed of 137 mph.

Ends