BMW X3: New Benchmark

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

BMW brings the second generation of the X3 onto the market. While the first edition was only on the market, the now strong competition will also have to take the Bavarian SUV as a benchmark.

Driving seven years behind is not enough. When BMW brought the X3 to life in 2003, the competition was still asleep and from there on saw only the taillights of the Bavarian SUV. Times have changed, as have the increased competition, only one thing remains the same. The second generation, available from November 27th, will also set a benchmark for the competition.

Individually adjustable driving program

Because the engineers have eliminated the weaknesses of the previously quite comfortable mid-range SUV. The chassis has been optimized and the adjusting screws on the rear axle have been turned in particular. Optionally, fine-tuning can also be operated with three driving modes for an additional charge of 1100 euros. In conjunction with the new electric power steering, everyone can now set their own individual driving program.

The terrain is also no stranger to the new X3. Thanks to the all-wheel drive, the Bayer, which has grown to a length of 4.65 meters - and thus almost as long as the first generation of the X5 - can also be found in mud and mud. But the second generation is less likely to get to know this terrain than the kindergartens and schools in the big cities.

Higher quality interior

Because the SUV is more suitable than ever as a person carrier. The interior has been refined, the materials are more valuable than those of the predecessor. The big brother X5 served as a model, so that there is also enough space on the back seat. The compartment for suitcases and water boxes was also given more space. 70 liters more were given, so that at least 550 liters are now available, which can be expanded to a total of 1600 liters.

BMW was not quite as generous with the assistance systems. Especially in the premium offers - the cheapest X3 starts at 39,100 euros - the little helpers are at least in the surcharge list. But distance cruise control or Blind Spot Assist, two really good assistants on the way to relaxed driving, are missing.

Economical and sporty at the same time

But even without an assistant, the BMW is always sporty and, above all, economical. In and of itself, not a notable fact at BMW. But with the X3 20d and the associated Efficient Dynamics program, the premium off-road vehicle consumes just 5.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers, which is 14 percent less than its predecessor. And that with an output of 136 kW / 184 PS and a maximum torque of 380 Newton meters as well as the ability to sprint to the 100 km / h mark in 8.5 seconds.

You don't have to do without driving pleasure. Patience is required before the 2000 revolutions are reached. But after that, the diesel engine plows like a berserk and promotes driving pleasure.

Three more engines in the coming year

An alternative is the 225 kW / 306 PS X3 xDrive 35i, which starts at 51,800 euros. A four-cylinder and a six-cylinder diesel as well as a three-liter gasoline engine will be installed in the coming year, so that the competition will probably have to follow suit for the next seven years. (AG)