BMW X3 2010 Review

BMW X3

BMW claimed a major victory with its release of the X3 back in 2004; calling it the creator of a whole new niche previously unexploited by automakers. What new niche exactly? A market apparently after a high-riding luxury wagon -- buyers requiring offroad abilities need not apply.

Meanwhile BMW has applied to two more "sports activity vehicle" segments with the recently introduced X1 and X6 brother to the latest larger (and in Europe, seven-place) X5 offering.

The X5 and X3, now in their second iteration, comprise two of the four models that make up the X lineup -- of which BMW is obviously proud.

The first-generation X3 was roundly criticised for its lack of offroad ability, dull on-road dynamics, average interior quality and nondescript styling.

In its new second generation (the first was facelifted late 2006) its status as an offroad-able vehicle is still under question. Like most softroaders it is without a 'real' 4WD's dual-range gearbox, however BMW has again applied hill descent control and mentions approach and departure angles in the product patter.

Gone is (most) of the body roll, road noise and less-than-usual-BMW cabin quality. It's a much better thing on the road now, with a controlled ride, and quiet, well-fitted interior.

The drive route out of Atlanta wasn't demanding but in corners the X3 sits reasonably flat and stays direct... However, we're hesitant to call it sporty, despite BMW's insistence that all its X models have a large dose of sport thrown in. This is still a family-sized high-riding wagon, and not to be confused with say, the brand's 'usual', sedan-based wagons.

In its evolution the X3 has grown. In fact it's not far short of the first gen X5 in overall dimensions.

The new X3 has a wider (by 92mm) track and longer (by 83mm) overall length, at 4648mm. Its overall width has also increased, by 28mm to 1881mm, which gives it a more prominent stance on the road. Now rolling on a 2810mm wheelbase (15mm over the old X3) the new X3's wheelbase is only 10mm less than the first generation X5's.

If you're in any doubt of where BMW thinks the new X3 sits, witness the fact it rolled out a first gen X5 to display alongside one of the launch cars.

Rear passengers have good leg, foot and head room and BMW says elbow room has improved for all five passengers.

The new X3 is also closer to the luxury wagon it wanted to be originally in terms of the interior, with better surface finishes and a dash/console design that resembles its bigger X5 brother's accommodation.

In fact we were advised by brand spokespersons that for a while at least the new X3 would be "smarter" than the current second-generation X5 and first generation X1 and X6, because it is now half a model cycle ahead.

Apart from some wind noise, presumably encouraged by the quite large side mirrors, the cabin remained quiet and comfortable over various road surfaces. While on the X3's side-view mirrors, their size would work well around requirements for towing and whatnot but they compromise front-side vision -- like many other SUV models. The blocked view is particularly noticeable on approach to intersections.

BMW claims segment-leading cargo space for the new X3, at 1600 litres in total with seats folded almost flat. With the second row in place there's easily enough room for three full-sized suitcases or a couple of golf bags. Ease of access to the luggage or golf bags is enhanced by the option of an electrically-operated rear door.

We drove the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel and 3.0-litre (straight) six-cylinder petrol engine-equipped models -- the 20d and 35i respectively. The 20d's diesel has earned the brand a best in class fuel consumption rating against competitors; at 5.6L/100km. It will be interesting to see how Audi and Co counter with their updates.

We couldn't get below 8.3L/100 during the drive program, however. This is disappointing considering there was little traffic and a large highway component to the test route.

The diesel is revvier than most of its ilk but nonetheless quiet and smooth. It really gets into its stride around 2000rpm but also reveals turbo lag and falters at lower revs (less than 1750rpm) in a high-ish (fifth or sixth) gear. We disputed the standard-fit upshift indicator on more than one occasion; at least while matched in this case to the six-speed manual.

At local release late next year Australians will be offered the diesel model only with the new eight-speed auto. Unfortunately BMW was not able to offer auto-equipped diesel models during the launch.

Trying the manual-equipped diesel model was worthwhile, however, for the fact that it comes standard with start-stop function. In this case it is unobtrusive and works much the same as any other offering we've tried from European automakers.

BMW Australia says it will investigate demand for the manual-equipped diesel offering after launch.

The six-cylinder offering is an altogether different beast. It sets the cat among pigeons in terms of power options in its 'category' (whatever that is) but it's almost overkill in the X3. Clever, efficient 'small' powerplants should be assigned to this size of offering; otherwise we're looking to (simply) buy the X5...

To that end, BMW is promising a high-tech (direct-injection) atmo four-cylinder petrol option later on. According to BMW we'll see the so-called N20 petrol offering in the 1 Series hatch and even updated Z4 before it will be applied to the X3... So, invest in the diesel or wait for the more efficient petrol version.

Brand spokesman Piers Scott told the Carsales Network that local customers should first anticipate the offer of the 5 Series' 3.0-litre petrol engine, rated at 190kW at 6600rpm and 310Nm from 2600 to 3000rpm, before the TwinPower in-line six demonstrated at launch.

BMW rounds out its green credentials with its normal suite of 'Efficient Dynamics' measures, in addition to application of lower-rolling resistance tyres, electric power steering, smart alternator and components (like power steering...) operating only on-demand.

If the engines aren't any real surprise, the new X3's ride is. As mentioned, reduction in body roll is noticeable and overall ride is helped the X3's adoption of BMW's clever adjustable damper control. It's the first of the brand's X cars to utilise the feature.

The Dynamic Damper Control feature is an option-fit upgrade on both models... But we'd suggest not an option for forward-thinking buyers -- especially if you opt for lower profile optional tyres (18s or 19s are standard depending on the model).

It's always difficult to pronounce as improved the suspension of a car based on overseas experience. But it seems that this system provides a genuine improvement to the X3's manners. We'll look forward to our local drive with interest.

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