First ride in the BMW X3: Bigger, faster, more economical

Larger, more dynamic and more comfortable than before coming in November, the new BMW X3 on the market. After only six years of construction takes the new generation against Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLK. The most dangerous opponent should it come from the ranks.

In terms of size and engine power

With the first generation of the BMW X3 was a lonely furrow for many years, before rejoining the competitors. More than 600 000 units sold speak for themselves. From the autumn, the success will continue. In the optic, the SUV-oriented newcomer significantly at the larger X5, more engines to the X3 X1 against shares with his little brother. That could turn out in the first few years as the strongest competitor. For many interested the cheaper compact SUV expected in terms of size and engine power range.

Source of Strength

With a length of 4.65 meters, the X3 has grown to nine centimeters. More length, more width and height more hot despite consistently more powerful engines but not necessarily more weight. "The models weigh between 20 kilograms and 25 kilograms less than its predecessor," said Heinz Krusche, for many years responsible for driving dynamics in the BMW. Thus, should the base model BMW X3 xDrive 20d, with its 135 kW/184 hp four-cylinder common-rail diesel with 5.5 liters fuel consumption per 100 kilometers satisfied. Nevertheless, there are 210 km / h top and a maximum torque of 350 Nm. At the market launch of the new X3 will also be available on a xDrive 35i with 225 kW/306 hp and 400 Nm. Like all six-cylinder is the top model with an eight-speed automatic sports combined, the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel offers a modified software for more driving pleasure. The X3 will of the first BMW that has as standard in all engine and transmission variants have a standard start-stop system. Together with the other efficiency measures intended to reduce consumption compared to predecessors so by about 15 percent.

In the spring of 2011, the twin engine is supplemented by other variants. Thus, the X3 will get including a four-cylinder diesel with 154 kW/210 hp and a three-liter inline six with 250 hp. Both engines are already known from X1 and other BMW models. Also in 2011 also, the new four-cylinder gasoline engine with turbocharging and double are finding their way.
The greatest strength

The greatest strength of the medium-SUV, however, remains the driving dynamics. There, the X3 has further refills significantly. Was the first generation not only taut and athletic, but very hard on the rear axle thud, then the second generation presented here clearly balanced. "Especially wide we could tune the suspension with the optional electronic dampers," said Heinz Krusche, "here, the driver can choose between comfortable and very athletic. They are two completely different cars." Pitch and roll movements are hardly noticeable and the newly developed electro-hydraulic steering system is in terms of precision and road feedback in a class by itself.
Force distribution

The six-cylinder petrol engine in the X3 xDrive 35i turns vicious and willing high, before he goes into high gear, and thus lower consumption of the eight-stage automatic transmission. Compared to its predecessor, the low tendency to understeer at the 1.8-ton X3 car was reduced significantly more difficult. Thus, the normal force distribution differs in the ratio of first drive in the BMW Cars X3. 40:60 to brisk ride much in favor of the rear axle off and thus provides a dynamic thrust of that of the more than 200 kilograms X1 exceeds lighter again.
Interior

Compared to more than its predecessors presents itself to the new dimensions in the interior clearly valent and larger. Thus, there are displays and operating units in the style of 5 and 7, to more shoulder, leg and knee room. However, the leg rest in the second row is still quite short and the bank could just be padded for long rides softer. After all, according to the growing dimensions of the hold also slightly enlarged. Long overdue, the X3 has now also has a power tailgate - unfortunately only for additional charge.
Price list

The price for the base model BMW X3 prices xDrive 20d should be around 38 000 euros, the level of the predecessor. The top model X3 xDrive 35i with optional equipment befitting easy to press at 60 000 €. While there are features fully electric leather seats, Keyless Go, hard drive navigation or head-up display, however, be-lane, overtaking or night vision system remain as sidelined as a distance cruise control.