The new BMW X3 2.0d - diesel power for BMW's mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle

BMW Great Britain is building on the early success of the new X3 model by
announcing details of the forthcoming two-litre diesel engined model.
Available in standard and SE models, the X3 2.0d will be available in October
2004 priced from £26,175 OTR.

Adding a further dimension to X3 ownership, BMW's highly praised diesel engine
produces 150bhp at 4,000rpm and 330Nm (243lb-ft) of torque at a calm 2,000rpm,
power being delivered through a standard six-speed manual gearbox.
Accelerating from standstill, 62mph is reached in 10.2 seconds while top speed
is 123mph. Yet the X3 2.0d delivers a frugal 39.2mpg on the combined cycle and
CO2 emissions of 191g/km.

xDrive

Differentiating the X3 from all competitors is xDrive - BMW's new and patented
four-wheel-drive system. Introduced on the new X5 in late 2003, all new BMW X3
models use the centrally mounted, electronically-controlled clutch to
distribute power to the axle with most traction in less than 100 milliseconds.
In conjunction with this clutch, BMW's standard DSC system can reduce power and
even brake individual wheels to ensure the car benefits from all available
grip. Setting new standards for traction from a 4 x 4 system, xDrive ensures
that any loss of footing, on - or off-road, is dealt with instantly rather than
waiting until the car becomes physically unstable.

The DSC system also assists Trailer Stability Control (TSC), which comes as
standard with a factory fitted tow bar. TSC monitors any pendulum effect,
applying brakes of individual, diagonally opposed wheels of the car if DSC
detects undue yaw movement characterised by the vehicle being overly-influenced
by its trailer.

DSC also contributes to the Hill Descent Control system (HDC). On steep
gradients and with HDC activated, the vehicle's progress is automatically
slowed to walking speed. Alternatively a target speed of between three and 16
mph can be selected using the cruise control buttons on the multi-function
steering wheel or the brake / accelerator pedals. DSC does this by applying
the brakes to individual wheels, stabilizing the car on descent and eliminating
any risk of the car sliding to the bottom of the slope.

Standard and Optional Equipment

All BMW X3 2.0d models are equipped with 17" alloy wheels, automatic air
conditioning, CD player, roof rails, an alarm and Brake Force Display, BMW's
new two-stage brake lights. SE models additionally feature a front centre
armrest, front fog lamps, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control,
on-board computer and Park Distance Control. All X3 models come with a range
of options to accompany the active lifestyles of its owners.

Options include either Business or Professional navigation system, the
Professional system featuring map guidance within a dedicated 16:9 pop-up
colour monitor. Complementing the X3's capacious interior and cavernous
480-litre boot is a storage rail system that provides a method of safely
transporting two bicycles upright in the boot. Also available is a Panorama
Roof, offering a large 0.65 metre square sunroof that benefits both front and
rear passengers, with a speed-dependant wind deflector to minimise interior
buffeting.

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 up to 90 per cent more of the road ahead as well as any previously
unseen, potential hazards.

Further models announced

From autumn 2005, a six-cylinder 3.0 diesel derivative will also be available
in SE or Sport form, details of which will be announced closer to its
introduction.

Ends