New BMW X3 Showcased At Auto Expo 2018

BMW has always been known to cause a stir at the Auto Expo and it’s no different this time around. Apart from launching the value-for-money 6 GT and the insanely powerful AWD M5, the Munich-based carmaker also showcased the third-gen X3 today. The older X3 was long overdue for a generation change but a quick glance at the spec sheet suggests that it is well worth the wait.

Based on the CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform, the new X3 has grown to the same size as the first-gen X5 and is 51mm longer, 10mm wider than its predecessor. The wheelbase too has grown by 54mm and should help free up more space on the inside. However, it is shorter by 2mm when compared to the outgoing SUV. The SUV sits on 18-inch alloy wheels and sports a ground clearance of 204mm. In terms of styling, the X3 features a prominent kidney grille, which is now flanked by all-LED headlamps. At the rear, it gets all-LED tail lamps that spill over to the electrically-operated tailgate.

The new X3 will be available in two variants - the xDrive 20d and the xDrive 30d. The former is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, twin-turbo diesel engine that churns out 190PS of max power and 400Nm of peak torque. The 30d, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.0-litre, twin-turbo, straight-six diesel motor that produces 257PS of power and 620Nm of peak torque. Both engines will be paired to an 8-speed ZF auto ‘box while power will be sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The cabin is like any other BMW that is currently on sale. Most of the control surfaces are inclined towards the driver while the front seats are electrically-adjustable and feature memory function. Features include the iDrive system that consists of a 10.2-inch touchscreen display with gesture control, a panoramic sunroof and climate control. In addition to this, you can also opt for a full-colour heads-up display (HUD) and a 12.3-inch screen that acts as the instrument cluster. Other optional extras include ambient air package, ambient lighting and a three-zone climate control.

Apart from standard safety equipment like ABS, hill descent control, dynamic stability control and traction control, the X3 also features automatic differential brake, cornering brake control and dynamic brake control. Apart from the standard trims, the X3 will also be made available with the MSport package with beefier anti-roll bars, a stiffened suspension setup with electronically-controlled dampers, MSport brakes and a variable sport steering.

The new X3 will be more expensive as compared to the outgoing model, which had a starting price of Rs 47.5 lakh ex-showroom India. But given its increase in size and the addition of new features, the price seems rather justified and makes the X3 better equipped to go against its rivals, the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Jaguar F-Pace.

Stay tuned to Zigwheels as we bring you more updates from the Auto Expo 2018.