The BMW X3 LCI model has been debuted.
The BMW X3 has been around for nearly 20 years now, with the X4 joining the BMW portfolio one generation later. The third-generation X3 model has just been given a mid-cycle refresh, otherwise known as a facelift or “Life Cycle Impulse” in BMW speak. The facelift comes to the BMW X4 as well, a closely-related model with more coupé-like styling.
Here are some of the changes in brief:
- larger front grille with new design and finish
- bars for the X3
- mesh for the 4-cylinder X4 models (not shown in pics, as the official pics are X4 M40i)
- new, angular bumper design with vertical air intakes
- flatter headlight design
- Full LED headlights as standard on X3
- Adaptive LED headlights as standard on X4, optional on X3
- Laserlight optional on both X3 and X4
- Shadow Line M package for darkened trim
- New taillight graphic for X3 (see Halo Energy Sword for its design inspiration)
- new rear bumper, reflector, tailpipe and diffuser designs
- new rim options (19-21″ depending on specification)
Petrol options for the new X3 and X4 models are technically mild-hybrid vehicles, as they are equipped with 48V 11hp starter generator systems:
- 2.0L inline-4 TwinPower Turbo inline 4
- 181hp and 300Nm of torque in the xDrive20i
- 241hp and 350Nm of torque in the xDrive30i
- 3.0L inline-6 TwinPower Turbo inline 6
- 355hp and 500Nm of torque in the M40i
The X3 M40i and X4 M40i are not full BMW M cars. Those have also been revealed today, and we’ll cover them separately. That being said, these M40i cars have different aesthetic packages, including more aggressive inserts, rim options and M branded parts to go with their 3.0L engines.
There is also a plug-in hybrid option that combines the 181hp tuned 2.0L engine with an 107 horsepower electric motor in the gearbox for a total output of 288 horsepower and 420Nm of torque. This xDrive30e can be driven on pure electricity up to speeds of 135km/h and for 50km.
The facelifted X3 and X4 come with the latest BMW design language found on their compact executive line. This means the latest 3 and 4 Series interiors are now available here. Inside, standard equipment include a 5.1″ digital element in the instrument cluster and a 10.25″ infotainment system in the Live Cockpit Plus package.
With the upgraded Live Cockpit Professional, you get a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster and a 12.3″ infotainment unit. They all run on BMW Operating System 7, have Android Auto, Apple Carplay, Amazon Alexa, BMW Maps, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistance and OTA updates.
BMW Driving Assistant Professional is now available on both the X3 and X4, which gives it active cruise control at up to 210km/h. This includes stop and go functionality for traffic. A built-in dashcam is now optional as the BMW Drive Recorder.
Other updates to the interior include new sports seats wrapped either in Sensatec artificial leather or Merino leather. New ambient lighting options and more have been added to the mix.
