At BMW, it’s all about the ‘X’-factor
Utility vehicles dominate every corner of dealer showrooms, including those selling luxury brands.
Since the 2004 model year when the X3 joined the larger X5 in BMW’s stable, it has become one of the most successful vehicles in a utility lineup that now also includes the X1, X2, X4, X6 and soon-to-arrive X7.
For 2018, a whole new X3 is rolling off the factory floor in South Carolina. Although similar to the previous model, overall length has increased by 3 inches and the distance between the front- and rear-wheels is up by 2.2 inches (yes, more rear-seat leg space).
Cargo space with the three-section (40:20:40) back seat in the upright position or folded (nearly flat) is a bit more generous than before, but that’s beat out by the Volvo XC60, Cadillac XT5 and the Lincoln MKX.
Outside, a more prominent kidneyshaped grille and headlamps are most apparent, otherwise the X3 looks quite familiar. It’s evidence that once BMW devises a winning design formula, the company rarely deviates.
The automaker takes a lessconservative approach on the inside of the X3. Previously criticized for a too-plastic-y cabin, the X3’s interior now ranks high in sumptuousness, starting with a dashboard that’s both stylish and easy to navigate and use. The available 8.8- and 12.3-inch touchscreens also work via voice command or with the optional gesture control. They’re freestanding and perched in plain sight above the control panel.
The base xDrive30i is fitted with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For the time being, the only other model is the X3 M40i with a turbo six-cylinder that punches out 355 horses and 359 pound-feet.
The engines are connected to eight-speed automatic transmissions controlled by paddle shifters. There’s also an actual console-located shift lever instead of pushbuttons or a rotary knob.
According to BMW, the four-cylinder X3 will accelerate to 60 mph from rest in six seconds. Driven sedately, it achieves a fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway.
The six-cylinder chops the zeroto-60 time to 4.6 seconds.
All-wheel-drive is standard for both models, but the six-cylinder’s version sends a greater amount of torque to the rear wheels in normal operation (likely anticipating more aggressive standing starts). In poor traction conditions, the system can send the bulk of engine torque to the wheel that has the most grip.
The M40i should also be easy to spot since it comes with sportier
body attachments, flared fenders and 19-inch wheels (18s are standard) that happen to be shod with run-flat rubber.
All X3s, starting with the $43,650 xDRive30i (including destination charges), come with plenty of gear, including tri-zone climate control, 12-speaker audio and a power-operated tailgate. The M40i adds a twopiece panoramic moonroof, front and rear parking assist, sport suspension, brakes and exhaust system.
Anyone familiar with BMW vehicles will acknowledge that the base price is just the beginning. There’s a lengthy list of options to consider, such as navigation and leather-covered interior with wood and chrome trim. There’s also heated front seats and steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster with head-up windshield display, and a factory-installed trailer hitch. That’s just scratching the surface.
Note that BMW’s active-safety technologies are optional — and not standard — in both models. Selecting these plus other extra-cost items could easily add $10,000 or more to the final tally.
This will raise some eyebrows, but consider the base price the starting point to building the X3 precisely the way you want it. Given the vehicle’s popularity, the eventual price is hardly a deal-breaker.