BMW X3 xdrive30d Steptronic

Larger, lighter and more sophisticated than ever, the new BMW X3 makes a strong case

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I6,32 sec 195 kw/620 N.m 240 km/h NTRODUCED globally in 1999 and in South Africa two years later, BMW’S reluctance to label its rst-generation X5 an SUV was a clear indication of the Bavarian brand’s priorities. Instead, BMW tweaked the descriptor into “sport activity vehicle”, thereby melding the burgeoning call for adventure-seeking vehicles with the kind of driver-focused, dynamic ability on which this Munich-based manufacturer has built its reputation.

In the decades that have followed, as the X family has evolved to include derivatives appeasing every conceivable niche, each incarnation 7,44 L/100 km 162 g/km has retained a healthy hint of athleticism. The latest of these is the third-generation (G01) X3 that we test for the rst time this month.

With its two predecessors quickly establishing the model range as one of the most signi - cant not just in the greater X family, but also in BMW’S complete portfolio, this new X3 has a sizeable reputation to uphold. It may be notably larger from every angle than the rst X3 (and the rst X5), but given its bolder-than-ever stance and sharp lines, it’s clear BMW wants its bestselling SUV to boast as much dynamic DNA as possible. For the full effect, an optional M Sport package (as tted to our test unit) is offered on all models bar the M40i, which sports it own bespoke design.

Sharing its platform with the 5 Series, the X3 is around 55 kg lighter, model for model, than the range it replaces. And that’s despite clear dimensional gains, the most signi cant of which is a 50 mm stretch in wheelbase. While this increase undoubtedly provides handling bene ts, it’s the improvement in occupant space