All the cars proudly flaunting that Blue and White propeller logo have always had their edge when it comes to the typical driving feel. Heck, even the company likes to call its SUV division as SAV, which is an acronym for Sports Activity Vehicle.
Based on the sporty 3 Series sedan, the X3 is its high-riding sibling. For those of you who may not know, the new-gen BMW X3 only went on sale in the first quarter of 2018. However, to everyone’s surprise, the X3 still lacks a bit of flair when compared to either the other SUVs in this segment or other offerings from the Bavarian automaker.
Sure, with this new-gen update, the X3 has grown up by a sizeable margin meaning it has simply more presence than the model it replaces. But it still remains to be a tricky sell, for the very reason it just can’t match the luxury quotient of any of its rivals, be it the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 or. Lexus NX. Here’s why.
Specifications
It may not be much larger in absolute terms, but the design makes it look like a barely shrunken X5. This is particularly true from the side on, where the larger bonnet, larger ‘squared’ wheel arches and the more substantial tail-lights and bumper scream X5. Upfront, the X3 gets a larger, taller and more prominent kidney grille with slats that open and close, and the ‘double-barrelled’ headlights with their neat LED ‘inserts’ placed high, make it look even more grown-up.
As said above, the current-gen BMW X3 has grown in every dimension when compared to its predecessor. So, the 2018 model of the X3 is now 4,657mm in length, 1,881mm in width, and 1,678mm in height. The wheelbase, too, has grown to 2,810mm. Moreover, the fuel tank capacity is now 67-litres.
Under the hood, the 2018 BMW X3 comes with a petrol and a diesel powertrain. Starting with the petrol, it’s a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which is good for 248bhp and 350Nm of torque. It comes mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Next is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, which is capable of churning out 190bhp and 400Nm of torque. It is also paired to the same 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Mileage
Of course, the diesel derivative of the BMW X3 is rated to deliver a better fuel efficiency figure, at 16.4km/l. The petrol-powered SAV from BMW isn’t too far behind either since it is rated to deliver 13.32km/l.
Features
In comparison to the model it replaces, the quality of materials and fit-and-finish is a step up in the right direction. Even though, it does not feel quite as luxurious or opulent as some of its established rivals.
In terms of features, you do get gesture control, smart key, steering-mounted controls, ambient lighting with six dimmable light designs, wireless charging for smartphones, and much more. The higher-spec Luxury Line model additionally offers 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome radiator grille bars, Vernasca leather upholstery, fine-wood trim interior accents, etc to elevate the SUV’s opulence. Moreover, the X3 also gets 12.3-inch Multifunction Instrument Display, and 10.25-inch touch screenfor iDriveNavigation Professional, paired with 600 Watts high-end Harman Kardon audio system, with support for wireless Apple CarPlay.
Colours
The X3, as of early-2020, comes in four shades, namely, Mineral White, Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect, Black Sapphire, and Phytonic Blue.
Brochure
All the details regarding the BMW X3, namely, the engine, specifications, variant wise equipment, colours, dimensions, interiors, and exterior details are extensively covered in the brochure.
Variants And Prices
As of early-2020, the BMW X3 is available in two variants, one in the petrol-automatic configuration, and one in the diesel-automatic configuration.The prices start at Rs. 59.3 lakhs for the xDrive 20d Luxury Line variant going all the way to Rs. 60.5 lakhs for the xDrive 30i Luxury Line variant (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). For the variant-wise on-road prices, visit us at autoX.
