New X3 Boasts Industry First Technologies
BMW expects good things from its all-new X3 sport utility, and for good reason. Its stylish design, impressive list of standard features and roomy interior yet compact exterior proportions should be enticing to consumers wanting all the
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| At $44,600 for the base X3 2.5i it will be $13,900 easier for BMW devotees to step up from a coupe or sedan into a more practical SUV. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
What's more, the X3 opens up an entirely new luxury compact SUV category. No premium brands, with the exception of Land Rover whose Freelander is only really premium in name, had yet to enter what is sure to be a popular genre.
At $44,600 for the base X3 2.5i it will be $13,900 easier for BMW devotees to step up from a coupe or sedan into a more practical SUV than it previously was when the German brand only had the $58,500 X5 3.0i in its lineup.
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| Standard safety features on the X3 include dual front and side airbags for front occupants, plus BMW's Head Protection System (HPS) both front and rear. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press, Canadian Auto Press) |
The base model features a 184-hp 2.5-L inline-6 mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, or optional 5-speed automatic with Steptronic sequential manual shift capability. The entry model might not include standard leather seats, but it is very well equipped with all the conveniences expected in a premium vehicle.
Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags for front occupants, plus BMW's Head Protection System (HPS) both front and rear. Rear side airbags are optional. Also, Trailer Stability Control, a system that recognizes trailer 'fishtailing' before it gets out of control and then reduces swing through applying Dynamic Stability Control - also standard.
The DSC system is called DSC-X in its AWD application, and combines with ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), HDC (Hill Descent Control) and BA (Brake Assist), among other technologies. Xenon headlights, much more powerful than standard or halogen beams, are joined in the rear by adaptive brake lights that glow brighter in panic situations.