BMW today announced the arrival of the enhanced, 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle®. In 2003 BMW founded the mid-size SAV segment with the launch of the original BMW X3. Since 2003, the BMW X3 has been a paragon of sporty dynamics, premium ambience, and robust agility—accumulating sales of more than one million units worldwide in the process. The second-generation BMW X3 has made a compelling case for itself since its introduction in 2010, boasting the best interior and cargo measurements and the greatest versatility in its class.
Now, the new BMW X3 is set to build on this leadership. A new opportunity for BMW Advanced Diesel power in the X3 xDrive28d will enhance efficiency while further reducing emissions.
This will also be the first-time that the rear-wheel drive BMW X3 sDrive28i will be available for the U.S. market, providing a great consumer entry point into the X3 family. The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 receive stylistic revisions that add further depth to the vehicle’s practicality, while updates to other details promise to impress the X3 customer.
The new BMW X3 will go on sale in spring 2014 as a 2015 model. Prices in the U.S. will start at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $39,325 for the X3 sDrive28i—with rear-wheel drive available for the first time. The X3 xDrive28i with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive will have an MSRP of $40,725, while the top-of-the-line X3 xDrive35i will have an MSRP of $45,825. The all-new X3 xDrive28d with BMW Advanced Diesel technology will start at $42,825. All prices include a $925 destination and handling fee.
Dynamic appearance and exclusive ambience.
The new BMW X3 presents a visually more powerful appearance with its new, modified twin-circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators—all of which shine a figurative spotlight on the signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a center console with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel display, and new cup holders with a sliding cover for the center console underline the vehicle’s premium appearance. New exterior colors, upholstery designs, interior trim strips, and light-alloy wheels enable even more refined individualization. The new xLine allows owners to lend even greater emphasis to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. The Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate enhances the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.
New BMW Advanced Diesel engine and gasoline sDrive models.
The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of one diesel and two gasoline engines, with outputs ranging from 180 hp to 300 hp. The state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption.
The new X3 xDrive28d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, available from 1,750 rpm, and will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The X3 xDrive28d will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just under eight seconds. BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new X3 a clean diesel.
Like its xDrive all-wheel drive counterpart, the new X3 sDrive28i features BMW’s brilliant 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. For customers with driving habits in which all-wheel drive might prove superfluous, the X3 sDrive28i provides an excellent alternative. Zero to 60 mph comes in a swift 6.2 seconds.
BMW ConnectedDrive: driver assistance and infotainment.
The new BMW X3 advances the company’s commitment to linking the driver, vehicle, and outside world, an area in which BMW is an undisputed leader. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the BMW X3 are the iDrive controller with touchpad functionality (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant, the full-color BMW Head-Up Display, and Active Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go, including Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.
Design and functionality: Powerful appearance and maximum versatility.
The design language of the new BMW X3 underlines the leading role it has traditionally occupied in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment. Taking its cue from its predecessor, the new BMW X3 blends exclusivity and dynamic appeal with impressive versatility. The new model is immediately identifiable as a member of the successful BMW X family and cuts an even more impressive figure on the road. Its design showcases an SAV that will carry out everyday tasks with consummate ease and do so while delivering unbeatable driving pleasure.
Striking presence.
Aside from its length, which has grown by less than an inch, the new BMW X3 has the same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor. However, the new BMW X3 comes with a host of exclusive details. At the front end, for example, the newly designed twin circular headlights stand out immediately. They can also be ordered in full-LED specification as an option and, like the LED front fog lights, lend even greater expression to the premium profile of the BMW X3. The characteristic, more strikingly-presented BMW kidney grille has an even sharper visual impact with its new surround, and powerful, newly designed front and rear bumpers highlight the poised and assured appearance of the new BMW X3. The LED turn signal indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors, while four new exterior paint shades and four newly styled light-alloy wheel variants broaden the scope for individualization.
Exclusivity and a high level of perceived quality in the interior.
The new X3 leads the way in its segment in terms of both interior spaciousness and rear load capacity (from 27.6 to 63.3 cubic feet). The interior is a compelling proposition with its carefully selected, exquisite materials. Understated chrome applications, the center console with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel look, and wood trim with chrome accents contribute to the high-quality surroundings.
Adding the final touches to the premium ambience are new cup holders in the center console with a sliding cover and the standard sport leather steering wheel. Customers can also choose from four new upholstery colors and four new interior trim strips.
xLine and M Sport offer boundless individualization.
The high-quality material and color concept shines the spotlight on the premium profile of the new BMW X3. xLine, which further emphasizes the dynamic and robust SAV character of the X3. xLine can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, satin aluminum side cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated under guards at the front and rear. It also allows customers to choose from additional leather upholstery variants, trim strips, and 19-inch light-alloy wheel options.
The superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect by specifying M Sport, with the M aerodynamic package and High-gloss Shadow Line trim maximizing the vehicle’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six paint finishes and two exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 19- and 20-inch sizes. In the cockpit, Anthracite roof liner and sports seats in various leather upholstery variants intensify the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sport automatic transmission, sport steering, and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic performance.
Raising everyday functionality a notch.
The BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are fitted with a 6.5” iDrive display and iDrive Controller. BMW Assist eCall, meanwhile, uses an integrated telephone unit to summon rapid assistance. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements, and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily and safely, and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. Elsewhere, the Hi-Fi Sound System Professional from Harman Kardon promises audio pleasure for the new BMW X3.
Powertrain: Dynamic and economical engines.
The high-revving character for which BMW is renowned, plus excellent power delivery, compelling refinement, and impressive efficiency, are also stand-out features of the cutting-edge gasoline engines available for the new BMW X3. Boasting High Precision Direct Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control, and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing, the gasoline engines provide outstanding dynamics yet incredibly low fuel consumption and emissions. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit in the X3 xDrive28i develops 240 hp and peak torque of 260 pound-feet. Fitted with the eight-speed automatic transmission, the X3 xDrive28i sprints from rest to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, The new BMW X3 xDrive35i also meets the highest dynamic standards. Its 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine develops 300 hp and produces maximum torque of 300 pound-feet, which is on tap between 1,200 rpm and 5,000 rpm.
Choice between rear-wheel and xDrive all-wheel drive.
Customers opting for the new BMW X3 with the 240 hp, 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine can choose between the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and classic BMW sDrive rear-wheel drive. The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivers optimum traction, need-based power distribution, and further improved dynamics and driving safety. In models equipped with xDrive, a new xDrive status display with three-dimensional graphics in the Control Display keeps the driver informed of the vehicle’s body roll and pitch. On vehicles equipped with a navigation system, a compass display is also shown in the instrument cluster.
Now in its Third Generation, BMW xDrive incorporates flexibility, responsiveness, and excellent handling characteristics. The system marks a significant evolution in xDrive capabilities, which has always depended upon networking the Dynamic Stability Control with the all-wheel drive system. With the overall Integrated Chassis Management system, all three control circuits work in parallel. This refined interaction achieves even quicker reactions to changing driving conditions and enhances xDrive’s already outstanding handling.
BMW xDrive is unique in design and construction. In normal conditions, driving torque is always transmitted to the rear wheels, and most of the time to all four wheels. Normal torque split is 80% rear/20% front. The portion of torque transmitted to the front wheels is controlled by a multi-disc clutch that can be fully open, fully engaged, or at any level of partial engagement in between. The torque split between rear and front wheels is thus steplessly variable. Engagement pressure on the multi-disc clutch is directed by an electronic control system in response to actual road and driving conditions. This gives xDrive a dynamic ability that is unparalleled by other all-wheel drive systems.
xDrive does more than just optimize traction; it can also enhance both agility and stability on grippy as well as slippery road surfaces. Using the same type of logic that Dynamic Stability Control employs to recognize and correct for excessive over- or understeer, xDrive adjusts the front/rear torque split to avoid these tendencies. If the system senses undesirable oversteer, it closes the multi-disc clutch completely, sending the maximum possible torque to the front wheels. In the case of excess understeer, xDrive opens the clutch completely, sending no driving torque to the front wheels. The Third Generation of BMW xDrive truly raises the bar for all-wheel drive systems in both passenger cars and sports activity vehicles.
Appearing yet again in the newest generation of xDrive is BMW’s Hill Descent Control.
Debuting in the 2000 original BMW X5, Hill Descent Control made it possible to control and steer the vehicle in downright dangerous and slippery conditions without even using the brake pedal. When activated, Hill Descent individually applies the brakes where needed to prevent slippage and increased speed. The driver simply needs to set the desired speed to descend (5 to15 mph), release the brake and gas pedals, and navigate down the hill. Hill Descent control comes standard on all xDrive equipped models.
8-speed automatic transmission.
Many new BMW models feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, which brings smooth shifting, sportiness, and efficiency to new levels of perfection. Compared to the exemplary 6-speed automatic offered in past BMW models, the 8-speed has “taller” cruising gears that make a significant contribution to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, as well as quietness. Its wider spread of ratios from lowest to highest gear enhances acceleration and response across the range of driving speeds. The revolutionary design allows for direct shifts from cruising gears to acceleration gears.
This new automatic’s attributes have been achieved via an innovative concept that provides the two additional ratios (7 and 8) with no increase in bulk or weight. In an arrangement never before employed in an 8-speed automatic, four planetary gear sets and five clutch packs are controlled in a way that no more than two of the five clutch packs are freewheeling at any given time. The modest increase in the number of mechanical elements allows the new transmission to achieve unusually high efficiency: the so-called “gearing efficiency” is higher than 98% in all eight gears. In 6th gear, it’s highest of all because that is direct drive, with no gearing reduction at all. Combine this with reduced friction and the ability to keep the torque converter “locked up” more of the total driving time, and the transmission becomes very much a part of the overall BMW EfficientDynamics concept.
The wider spread of ratios allows the engine to run at lower speeds, often in the “tallest” gear, 8th. Yet even with this wider spread, the steps between adjacent gears are reduced. In turn, this means a stronger, smoother flow of power during acceleration. For the same reason, faster shifts are a further benefit because only one clutch pack is disengaged to shift up or down by one or two gears. On the other hand, downshifting more than two gears is accomplished as a direct shift. For example, a downshift from 8th to 2nd gear is made with only one clutch pack disengagement, and occurs without stepping down through the intermediate gears. So, at one instant the driver can be enjoying the quiet, fuel-efficient low rpm of 8th gear, and in the next instant get maximum acceleration.
On the new BMW X3, a Sport Automatic transmission option with shift paddles is also available in conjunction with M Sport.
Coasting function and ECO PRO mode reduce fuel consumption.
Other features contributing to the economical running of the new BMW X3 are the ECO PRO mode selectable via the Driving Experience Control switch and the coasting function of the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which disengages the powertrain at speeds of approximately 30 to 100 mph when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator.
Safety, comfort and infotainment.
The new BMW X3 sees BMW ConnectedDrive providing further evidence of its groundbreaking role in the linkup of the driver, vehicle and, outside world. Among the outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the new BMW X3 is the latest, enhanced-capability generation of the Navigation system, complete with ECO PRO route guidance and an iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad. The touchpad allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs—a navigation destination, for example. Another highlight is the full-color Head-Up Display, which projects all important driving information and the assistance systems displays into the driver’s field of view. Among the other systems available as an option to further enhance safety is Active Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go, which includes features such as Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.
Taking the stress out of paralle parking is the Parking Assistant, which automatically steers the vehicle into parking spaces parallel to the road. BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps also make mobility services and smartphone applications available inside the vehicle via the central Control Display, and innovations such as the Concierge Services and ARTTI (Advanced Real Time Traffic Information) system can also be accessed.
The standard inclusion of the BMW Assist eCall function provides another boost to safety. This system springs into action automatically, as well as when help is summoned manually. As soon as the crash sensors report an airbag deployment, BMW Assist eCall uses the integrated SIM card to send the vehicle’s exact location along with all key information to the BMW call center, enabling rapid and effective assistance at the scene of the accident. BMW Assist eCall is now standard and has seen service in BMWs for ten years.—Scott Blazey
