The new X3 brings unrestricted everyday usability on any terrain

The new BMW X3 elevates its predecessor with a more striking, dynamic design language, powerful yet also efficient drive systems, and luxurious appointments that bring forward the brand’s ultimate promise of “Sheer Driving Pleasure.”

Looking at the design, the luxury crossover combines rugged off-road looks with sporting presence. Its five-centimetre-longer wheelbase, long bonnet and extremely short front overhang with finely balanced proportions emphasises the perfect 50:50 distribution of weight between the front and rear axle – give it the edge over its predecessor. It also features “three-dimensional” kidney grille and fog lamps in hexagonal shape. On the rear, the three-dimensional LED light clusters, markedly downward-sloping roof spoiler, and twin exhaust tailpipes allow the X3 to look suitably muscular.

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Those who are looking at variety can choose between two models: BMW X3 xDrive20d xLine comes with radiator grille and exterior details in Aluminium satinated and specifically designed 19-inch light-alloy wheels, while BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport model focuses its attention on the dynamic gifts of the all-new BMW X3 with M aerodynamic features, a particularly dramatic design on the 19-inch light-alloy wheels, and the new exterior paint shade of Phytonic Blue.

In terms of interiors, the two variants also take distinguished approaches on design. The xLine model focuses on pureness and elegance, and is standard-fitted with full Vernasca leather upholstery sports seats. It also comes with décor stitching and interior trim strips in black high-gloss with highlight trim finishers in Pearl Chrome. The M Sport model, on the other hand, provides an athletic visual showcase with an M Sport leather steering wheel, sports seats, anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner and new interior trim strips in Aluminium Rhombicle in the interior. Both variants also come standard with a number of new, chiefly comfort-enhancing equipment features not offered for its predecessor. These include three-zone automatic climate control, which adds separate temperature controls for the rear compartment, driver and front passenger. Elsewhere, the standard-fitted acoustic glazing of the windscreen contributes to the extremely low noise levels in the interior, even at high speeds.

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When it comes to tech, the BMW X3 has the latest version of the BMW iDrive system fitted as standard. The 10.25” touch sensitive central display provides a quick summary of the most pertinent information, and offers users intuitive access to whatever they are looking for. The 10.25” touch sensitive central display provides a quick summary of the most pertinent information, and offers users intuitive access to whatever they are looking for. Gesture control allows numerous infotainment system and telephone functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures. Drivers can also expect the Parking Assistant system that measures potential spaces while driving past at a low speed and aids the driver in steering, acceleration, braking, and gear selection to automatically position the car into parallel and lateral parking spaces.

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Above BMW officials Spencer Yu, Maricar PArco, REmmy Ng, and Karl Magsuci pose with the new BMW X3 at the Manila launch

Both the xLine and the M Sport are powered by a 2-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo diesel engine producing a 190 hp and 400 Nm. The power unit stems from the latest generation of BMW engines and operate even more efficiently than the models they replace. Further improvements have also been made to the efficiency of both the eight-speed Steptronic transmission with gearshift paddles and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The all-new BMW X3 also boasts a class-leading drag coefficient of Cd = 0.29. Reducing aerodynamic drag not only helps to lower fuel consumption, it also has a beneficial effect on noise levels. Besides its aerodynamically optimised proportions, the all-new BMW X3 also features additional underbody cladding that provides unprecedented underbody sealing. Further refinements, such as the restyled roof spoiler with aero edges at the sides, round off its aerodynamic superiority.

 

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