The 4th generation BMW X3 was recently unveiled. With a new design and new engines, will it be able to continue the success of the SUV?
BMW is renewing its flagship. The fourth generation of the BMW X3, the Bavarian manufacturer’s best-selling model, with almost 1.9 million units produced, has recently been unveiled. Does this fourth generation live up to its ancestors? While we’ll have to wait to get behind the wheel to get all the answers, we’ll already be looking at its stylistic renewal and technical features.
A new monolithic design
How can we not start with this new front end. The BMW X3 sports a new grille, even bigger than on the previous generation. The two nostrils are this time very distinct, and a new vertical and diagonal design decorates the interior. Note that as on other models of the brand, its outline can be illuminated if you take l’option BMW Iconic Glow.
The model is adorned with new lines on the hood that give a more plunging effect. The same effect applies to the new light signature, built in an L shape on the inside. Finally, the bumper has been redesigned, with a less complex shape, which gives the model more presence. From the front, we have a real impression of stability, with an assertive and imposing style.
From the side, the SUV has a more sloping roofline towards the rear, with more pronounced side skirts, like the curve of the wheels. The X3 has a sportier, more angular, more straightforward side. The model offers 18-inch or 19-inch wheels as standard, but they can go up to 21 inches as an option. The handles are now semi-integrated and blend better into the bodywork.
The new BMW X3 is a little longer and wider than the previous version. It measures 4.75m long and 1.92m wide. That makes it a beautiful baby! It has, however, lost a few centimetres in height and now measures 1.66m.
Finally, at the rear, BMW has revised its copy. And for the moment, the X3 is even more refined. The lights, now T-shaped, are much less bulky on the trunk. The rear spoiler is highlighted with a black shade different from the bodywork, while the rear bumper is simplified. The exhaust outlets disappear under the bodywork, except on the sportiest engine.
Four all-electrified engines for the BMW X3
BMW has simplified its engine range. Four are now available on the model, including a plug-in hybrid engine. This is the BMW X3 30e xDrive with a total power of 299 hp. With a gross capacity of 22.1 kWh, its battery can travel up to 90 km in 100% electric mode according to the manufacturer. Otherwise, all other engines are associated with a 48 V micro-hybridization. There is no longer 100% thermal. The aim is to avoid too high a CO2 penalty. You have two petrol engines, the first of 208 hp, and the sporty M50 xDrive version composed of an inline six-cylinder for a total of 398 hp. It is on the latter that you will be able to see the four exhaust outlets. You will also benefit from a tailor-made chassis and a host of other technologies specific to the M Performance model. Finally, there is the 197 hp diesel engine. Another inline six-cylinder diesel engine will be available a little later.
All engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, including steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters as standard, and adopt BMW xDrive intelligent four-wheel drive technology.
Inside, a bright and colorful atmosphere!
If the interior is a little sober at first glance, once the ambient lighting is turned on, it is much more colorful and it brings a lot of warmth. You can find it on the dashboard but also on the door panels and the central console. In total, 15 colors are available for the ambiance. As standard you will find heated and electrically adjustable sports seats, made of recycled and recyclable polyester. As an option you can opt for imitation leather seats. For a little while now, there has been no more animal leather in BMW models. The dashboard is draped in the same fabric as the seats, and displays some embroidery in the manufacturer’s colors. Finally, a new steering wheel with a flat part on the lower part takes place in front of the driver.
To manage the BMW X3, the SUV adopts a new digital panel including a 12.3-inch counter and a 14.9-inch control screen. It is the BMW Operating system 9 that operates everything. For those less comfortable with technology, a small joystick on the central console also allows you to move around the menus.
In the back, passengers will be treated like kings. There is plenty of room on board, both head and legroom. They will also be able to enjoy personal air conditioning. In terms of the trunk, the loading volume is announced at 570 L. And to open it, the automatic tailgate is standard.
Overall, the BMW X3 is even more luxurious than its predecessors, and more robust. But all these improvements come at a cost, the starting price of this fourth generation is €63,900 and the model can go up to €89,900 without options just depending on the engine.
Source: www.autoplus.fr
