BMW Group Malaysia has launched the all new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Looking very much better ovber the previous X3 which did dismal sales here in Malaysia, BMW hopes that this new X3 will fare better against the hugely popular Audi Q5.
The new BMW X3 xDrive20d features the latest BMW Advanced Diesel Technology with a two litre, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine capable of producing 135kw/ 184 hp and a torque reading of 380Nm which is driven by an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
The 8-speed transmission system allows the driver to enjoy an exceptionally smooth driving experience with power and efficiency to match that of a double-clutch transmission system. This potent combination allows the new BMW X3 xDrive20d to complete the 0-100kmh sprint in a respectable 8.5 seconds.
As part of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, the new BMW X3 features optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight construction, Brake Energy Regeneration, Electromechanical Steering, demand-based control of ancillary components and functions and for the first time in any BMW vehicle in Malaysia, Auto Start/ Stop function in combination with automatic transmission.
Aesthetically, the new BMW X3 merges the typically muscular design cues of the BMW X Series with a dynamically stretched silhouette to produce an elegant, durable and sporting car. The typical characteristic upright kidney grille and triangular headlight arrangement of the new BMW X3 ensures an undeniably robust presence, emphasised by the flared wheelarches, short wheelbase and horizontal rear lines. Further accentuating its external looks are Bi-Xenon headlights with daytime driving light function that feature the signature Corona Rings, a BMW feature that also aids in providing added safety.
And the improvements on its predecessor are not only limited to the external. With 23 mm more knee room and a 20 mm increase in width over the previous BMW X3, the three rear seats certainly provide a sizeable space upgrade.
Providing a volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres, the luggage compartment of the new BMW X3 is also one of the best in its segment. It is, however, not just about pure volume as usable space is also essential to the SAV customer and the new BMW X3 has an adaptable interior which can be changed to suit personal requirements, with numerous ergonomically designed and useful storage areas throughout the vehicle. The rear seat backrests can be split 40:20:40 where the three segments can be folded down either individually or together. In this way, it is possible to adapt the luggage compartment according to individual user requirements.
As always with BMW interiors, the asymmetrical instrument panel and centre console are orientated towards the driver while the Radio BMW Professional, which includes a 6.5-inch monitor and 12 loudspeaker hi-fi system are a standard offering, ensuring all infotainment requirements are met and exceeded. With BMW ConnectedDrive, owners of the new BMW X3 will also enjoy complete USB connectivity and bluetooth hands free functions and are able to access a host of safety and infotainment functions such as BMW TeleServices and the optional BMW Telematics Platform Accessory (TPA), which includes an emergency Vehicle Recovery System as well as other BMW Assist remote services.
The all new BMW X3 xDrive20d offers two optional packages which are the Technology and Comfort packages. The Technology package features BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control working in unison with BMW Performance Control, BMW Navigation System Professional and extended connectivity for mobile devices, whilst the Comfort package features the automatic operation of the tailgate, comfort access system and a panoramic glass roof. Limited units of the new BMW X3 xDrive20d Special Edition will also be available from launch, boasting addtional features such as Dynamic Damper Control, Performance Control and 18” light alloy wheels.
Dynamic Damper Control and Performance Control are two proprietary BMW technologies that allow drivers to further enhance their driving experience. With the Dynamic Damper Control, electronically controlled dampers adapt to the driver’s style and various road surfaces and when used with Dynamic Driving Control, the drive technology allows drivers to toggle between “NORMAL”, “SPORT” and “SPORT+” modes to unleash the full driving potential of their BMW X3.
The new BMW X3 xDrive20d is covered by BMW’s extensive service program, BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear and tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle. The service program offers peace of mind BMW ownership and provides cover from three years from its original registration date or 60,000KM, which ever comes first.
The retail price for the BMW X3 xDrive20d (on the road, without insurance), with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair (BS+RI) start from RM 348,800.
