New X3, same price

Ahead of its local launch in March, BMW Australia has today announced local pricing for its all-new X3 medium SUV.

With a starting price identical to the outgoing model, BMW has ensured the new X3 remains a strong value proposition for family buyers, despite substantial technology, design and performance improvements.

Available with diesel and petrol power, the all-new second generation X3 starts at $62,200 for the entry-level X3 xDrive20d, the list price equally that of its predecessor.

The X3 xDrive20d is powered by a 135kW/380Nm four-cylinder turbodiesel engine boasting fuel economy returns of 5.6L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 147g/km. Despite these frugal statistics, the base model X3 offers impressive acceleration figures, managing the 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.5 seconds.

Joining the turbodiesel offering, a six-cylinder petrol-powered model is also available from launch, the X3 xDrive28i priced from $71,900.

Introducing a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine to the range, the X3 xDrive28i develops an output of 190kW/310Nm for a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds. The combined fuel consumption tally is 9.0L/100km while CO2 emissions are 210g/km.

A third, more powerful diesel option will be available mid-year, the $74,990 X3 xDrive30d. Despite offering $10,000 of additional value, the top-spec diesel model is actually $2500 cheaper than the outgoing model.

Featuring a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the flagship X3 equals its petrol-powered sibling with 190kW but offers a brawny 560Nm of torque. The X3 XDrive30d also outperforms its petrol counterpart, hitting 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption remains impressive at 6.0L/100km.

Among a generous standard equipment list, all new X3 models feature a rear view camera with high resolution 6.5-inch colour monitor, USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless start and new eight-speed automatic transmission.

Servotronic electric power steering makes parking easy while also saving fuel, and for added practicality, the rear seat can be split 40:20:40 as required. BMW says the new X3's load space is the largest in its class at 550-litres. With all seats flipped down, this area expands to a capacious 1600-litres.

The braked towing capacity of the new BMW X3 is 2000kg.

X3 xDrive28i models gain 18-inch alloy wheels and electric seat adjustment (with memory function), whilst the X3 xDrive30d adds an X-Line styling package and automatic tailgate operation.

Optional packages include a 'Performance Control' system for improved agility when cornering and 'Dynamic Damper Control' for improved ride quality over varying road surfaces.

Additionally, 'Variable Sports Steering' reduces the degree of steering wheel movement required to further enhance response and agility.

As part of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, automatic stop-start, brake energy generation and the aforementioned electronic power steering help trim fuel consumption to achieve best-in-class results.

A comprehensive array of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies complement X3's versatility with internet access available for the first time. The system operates through compatible mobile phones and is transferred to the vehicle's iDrive system via Bluetooth.

"The new BMW X3 combines performance, elegance and practicality all in equal measure making it an especially relevant vehicle for the Australian market,” said BMW Group Australia Acting Managing Director, Peter Buchauer. "In essence, it is the ultimate all-rounder.”

More information on the new BMW X3 can be found at our launch review by clicking on this link.

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