New BMW X3 debuts with a bold statement in design

New BMW X3 debuts with a bold statement in design

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‍The BMW X3 started the raging war in the SUV fold in 2003, where the likes of the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC later came into play in 2008 and 2015, respectively. 

Since then, the BMW X3 has gradually evolved to become what it is today. The third generation, which debuted in 2017, has proven to strike a good balance between sportiness, practicality, luxury, and efficiency, with the 20d model being our pick in the bunch. However, BMW is now retiring the third-gen SUV. 

It's set to enter its fourth generation before the end of the year, and what you're looking at is the new model that, like the outgoing variant, will be built here in South Africa at the manufacturer's plant in Rosslyn.

On the outside, it’s a complete departure from the looks of the current X3 that we have become accustomed to. The monolithic overall appearance, reminiscent of the XM, the large BMW kidney grille with its new structure of vertical and diagonally arranged bars, and the L-shaped LED daytime running lights contribute to this.

Other features include optional BMW Iconic Glow couture lighting on the front grille, standard adaptive LED headlights, a long roof spoiler, and exhaust tailpipes integrated out of sight in the rear apron.

While it may appear compact in pictures, at least, BMW says the new X3 is 34mm longer and 29mm wider than its predecessor. This should result in a more spacious interior setup. As for its height, it has been dropped by 25mm for a sportier stance. 

The 20d and 30e xDrive models of the new X3 come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, while the X3 M50 xDrive M Performance model features larger 20-inch alloys. Prospective buyers have the option to enhance their vehicle with packages such as the M Sport Package and the M Sport Package Pro, each offering a unique set of features. 

Besides looking new and more upscale than the outgoing model, the interior is pretty standard. It gets the same BMW Curved Display as most current BMWs, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a new gear selector, and a whole bunch of equipment. The equipment includes contrasting colours on the door trims and centre console, the new BMW iDrive featuring the brand's OS 9, and updated ventilation controllers. 

As for the boot space, the normal X3 boasts 570 litres that can be expanded to 1,700 litres by folding the rear seats, while the X3 30e xDrive features 460 and 1,600 litres. 

Powering the range is the same 20d xDrive, but now with 145kW (5kW more) and 400Nm from a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that is also paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. It sprints from 0-100km/h in 7.7 seconds (0.3 seconds quicker than its forebear) while shuffling through an 8-speed automatic transmission. 

A performance-focused M50 xDrive version is now available, and it features what BMW claims to be the most potent 3.0-litre 6-cylinder inline petrol engine ever fitted in a M Performance model. Paired with the same 48V mild hybrid system, the setup churns 293kW, enough to send the SUV from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds. 

As for the X3 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, it features a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that is paired with an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The setup pumps out 220kW and has an electric range of up to 90km. It comes standard with an 11kW AC charging capability. 

Earmarked to go on sale in Mzansi in the fourth quarter of 2024, the new BMW X3 is poised to make its mark in the global market, with its design expected to resonate well with customers, although aesthetic preferences are naturally subjective.

The BMW Group Plants in Spartanburg, USA, and Rosslyn, South Africa, will produce the upcoming BMW X3.

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