The new model is slightly longer (+83 mm) and taller (+12 mm) than its predecessor. Ground clearance is up as well (+12 mm), while the wheelbase and tracks have been extended. According to Wierda, these new dimensions make the 2011 X3 as big as the original X5 from 2000.
A more refined interior
Inside, occupants will quickly notice the extra wood trim (BMW offers two choices of wood as well as brushed aluminum appliques). The driver-oriented cockpit also gains a large 8.8-inch high-resolution control display that serves for the iDrive multimedia interface (now standard) and the navigation system (optional).
There are plenty of storage solutions throughout the cabin – and larger ones, too. The compartments in the front door panels can even fit big water bottles. Meanwhile, two cup holders (instead of just one) are found in the centre console, which also receives a USB slot and Bluetooth interface for hands-free communication. Clearly, BMW wants to please American drivers!
Among the host of available options are cool technologies like head-up display (exclusive to X3 xDrive35i models) as well as top-view and rear-view cameras.
The front buckets offer a comfortable and commanding driving position, while the rear bench seat can sit up to three average-sized adults. Once folded, the 60/40-split seatbacks increase the available cargo room from 550 to 1,600 litres – right in the GLK's and Q5's ballpark.
More power, less fuel
The body transformation should not overshadow the work done underneath. Both trim levels are more powerful for 2011. The base xDrive28i gets a naturally-aspirated, 3.0-litre, inline six-cylinder N52 engine that produces 240 horsepower (+25) and 221 pounds-foot of torque (+36). BMW claims this two-ton X3 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds – or a half-second faster than a 2010 X3 xDrive30i with automatic transmission.
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| In true BMW fashion, interior ergonomics are still outstanding. At the same time, the layout is more refined and the list of features, more extensive. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com) |
A more refined interior
Inside, occupants will quickly notice the extra wood trim (BMW offers two choices of wood as well as brushed aluminum appliques). The driver-oriented cockpit also gains a large 8.8-inch high-resolution control display that serves for the iDrive multimedia interface (now standard) and the navigation system (optional).
There are plenty of storage solutions throughout the cabin – and larger ones, too. The compartments in the front door panels can even fit big water bottles. Meanwhile, two cup holders (instead of just one) are found in the centre console, which also receives a USB slot and Bluetooth interface for hands-free communication. Clearly, BMW wants to please American drivers!
Among the host of available options are cool technologies like head-up display (exclusive to X3 xDrive35i models) as well as top-view and rear-view cameras.
The front buckets offer a comfortable and commanding driving position, while the rear bench seat can sit up to three average-sized adults. Once folded, the 60/40-split seatbacks increase the available cargo room from 550 to 1,600 litres – right in the GLK's and Q5's ballpark.
More power, less fuel
The body transformation should not overshadow the work done underneath. Both trim levels are more powerful for 2011. The base xDrive28i gets a naturally-aspirated, 3.0-litre, inline six-cylinder N52 engine that produces 240 horsepower (+25) and 221 pounds-foot of torque (+36). BMW claims this two-ton X3 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds – or a half-second faster than a 2010 X3 xDrive30i with automatic transmission.
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| The rear bench seat proves relatively accommodating for three average-sized adults. With just two in the back, however, comfort is way better. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com) |