The top-shelf X3 xDrive35i features BMW’s newest turbo-charged six (the “N55”). With 300 horses and 300 “torques” it is able to do the zero to 100 km/hr deeds in only 5.8 seconds.
According to BMW, the faster acceleration times are achieved, in part, via the new 8-speed automatic transmission. This enables X3 to have a shorter gear for getting off the mark, quicker shifting, and quite a taller cruising gear; the latter will advance the fuel efficiency cause.
Fuel efficiency is further increased by a system that decouples the charging systems when accelerating, and re-coupling it upon deceleration (a form of regenerative braking).
The vehicle features the third-generation of BMW’s AWD system, called xDrive. In normal conditions, the front/rear torque split is 40/60, but the split can be infinitely variable. Keeping torque flowing to all four-wheels at all times is key to X3’s dynamic responsiveness, says BMW.
Drivers can also ratchet up X3’s sportiness, by selecting the optional “Adaptive Drive” electronic damping package and turning on the “Sport” mode (the other mode is “Normal”).
Inside Story
Through the years, the previous X3 found itself a bit shy on creature comforts. The new one rectifies the situation by offering a full suite of electronic gizmos and premium materials.
The Central Display of the optional navigation system with the fourth-generation iDrive controller, is integrated into the new instrument panel, and features a new 22 cm (8.8 inches) hi-res monitor.
X3 debuts BMW’s “mobile office” features, which includes the ability to sync email with your smart phone (emails can then be read back to you, via the text to speech mode).
Other new options are park distance control, rear view mirror with camera, power tailgate, and heads-up display.
The previous X3 had precious little legroom in the back. The new one gives you want you need, and some more elbowroom to boot. Rear cargo volume also increases, to 550 litres (with both rear seats up).
According to BMW, the faster acceleration times are achieved, in part, via the new 8-speed automatic transmission. This enables X3 to have a shorter gear for getting off the mark, quicker shifting, and quite a taller cruising gear; the latter will advance the fuel efficiency cause.
Fuel efficiency is further increased by a system that decouples the charging systems when accelerating, and re-coupling it upon deceleration (a form of regenerative braking).
The vehicle features the third-generation of BMW’s AWD system, called xDrive. In normal conditions, the front/rear torque split is 40/60, but the split can be infinitely variable. Keeping torque flowing to all four-wheels at all times is key to X3’s dynamic responsiveness, says BMW.
Drivers can also ratchet up X3’s sportiness, by selecting the optional “Adaptive Drive” electronic damping package and turning on the “Sport” mode (the other mode is “Normal”).
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| The new 2011 BMW X3 offers a full suite of electronic gizmos and premium materials. (Photo: BMW) |
Inside Story
Through the years, the previous X3 found itself a bit shy on creature comforts. The new one rectifies the situation by offering a full suite of electronic gizmos and premium materials.
The Central Display of the optional navigation system with the fourth-generation iDrive controller, is integrated into the new instrument panel, and features a new 22 cm (8.8 inches) hi-res monitor.
X3 debuts BMW’s “mobile office” features, which includes the ability to sync email with your smart phone (emails can then be read back to you, via the text to speech mode).
Other new options are park distance control, rear view mirror with camera, power tailgate, and heads-up display.
The previous X3 had precious little legroom in the back. The new one gives you want you need, and some more elbowroom to boot. Rear cargo volume also increases, to 550 litres (with both rear seats up).
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