BMW Unveils All-New X3 Following Full Model Change | BMW

BMW X3

BMW Unveils All-New X3 Following Full Model Change

On October 19, BMW announced the all-new mid-size SAV,X3with immediate order acceptance and deliveries scheduled to begin in December.

Text by Akira Hara

Dynamic Exterior with Large Kidney Grille

While BMW refers to the new X3 not as an SUV but as a SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), its exterior has been completely redesigned while maintaining the characteristic X model style, resulting in a sportier and more dynamic appearance.

The front of the vehicle, incorporating BMW's latest design language, features a large kidney grille that adds depth to its expression, distinctive hexagonal headlights, wide and sporty air inlets, and deep, flowing lines on the bonnet, all emphasizing the SAV's robustness and dynamism.

Furthermore, the roofline, which evokes the flow of air, and the two bold character lines sculpted into the sides enhance the vehicle's presence, while the newly added air breathers reduce air resistance and underscore the SAV's active nature.

The interior features effective use of chrome trim, along with embossed "X" and "X3" logos on the rear door panels and center console, creating an X model-specific sense of individuality and luxury.

BMW X3

BMW Unveils All-New X3 Following Full Model Change (2)

Partial Autonomous Driving Standard

The model lineup includes two variants: the "20i" with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder twin-power gasoline turbo engine, and the "20d" with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder twin-power diesel turbo engine. Each is available in the luxurious and stylish "xLine" and the sporty "M Sport" trims.

While the gasoline model is currently under application and data is not yet available, the diesel model produces a maximum output of 140 kW (190 ps) at 4,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1,750-2,500 rpm. Its fuel consumption is rated at 17.0 km/ℓ.

The body measures 4,720mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,675mm in height, with a vehicle weight of 1,860kg. An ideal 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, akin to a sports car, coupled with the front double-joint strut axle and five-link rear suspension concept, and the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system that has been a hallmark since the first generation, are said to enable high driving dynamics and stable performance even on rough roads.

In terms of equipment, the vehicle comes standard with the latest "iDrive Navigation System" featuring voice recognition and a touchscreen, the comprehensive telematics service "BMW ConnectedDrive," and the "Driving Assistant Plus" safety and driver assistance system. Utilizing a stereo camera within the rearview mirror and five front and rear radar sensors, it enables partial autonomous driving. It warns of sudden stops and emerging obstacles in everyday driving scenarios and can maintain stable driving during high-speed travel and in traffic jams.

Prices range from 6.39 to 6.87 million yen for the X3 xDrive 20i, and from 6.62 to 7.10 million yen for the X3 xDrive 20d.