What is it?
This is BMW's ever-growing SUV, the X3, back for its third generation and driven for the first time in right-hand-drive form - albeit on Moroccan roads. Following a steer of the xDrive30d last month, it's also our first chance to sample the more frugal xDrive20d model, although it's no longer the entry-level choice; that's a slot now reserved for the new xDrive20i petrol model due in December.
Unlike the previous two generations, this X3's architecture owes more to the 5 Series than the 3 Series and the car is now longer and wider than the original X5. Its 51mm increase in length over the outgoing F25 model is reflected closely by a jump in wheelbase that boosts rear cabin space. Despite this growth and additional sound-deadening measures, increased use of aluminium and composites means our 2.0-litre diesel model’s weight is effectively unchanged at 1825kg.
The familiar four-cylinder engine's vitals endure, too, meaning 187bhp and 295lb ft – enough to deliver 62mph in 8.0sec via a revised eight-speed automatic gearbox (you can no longer buy a manual X3). The electronically controlled xDrive system now uses a more efficient transfer case sourced from the 7 Series and a lighter rear differential. Its rear bias has been ramped up, but all of the torque can, in principle, be sent to either axle. There's hill descent control as standard, but mud-plugging is more a hobby than a vocation. As BMW puts it: "The X3 is a capable off-road vehicle for its intended audience."
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Symanski
Rust and injectors.
A friend had an X3, 61 plate, and two years ago decided to sell it. Just then the injectors failed, a £ 2,500 expense.
Then someone came to look after the car and pointed out the boot was rusting badly. Really badly, and some parts of the rear structure too. BMW had to replace the boot and respray some of the rear.
BMW quality? Where???
TStag
This will be a good buy
This will be a good buy second hand if it depreciates as fast as it's siblings. Seriously by a Jag, Merc or Land Rover and save yourself a few bob on depreciation. Also it just looks dull....
Cobnapint
Second hand JLR values only benefit the main stealer...
Not the poor owner who just got stiffed after tolerating years of thankless return visits to the local dealership.
Seriously, don't start fretting about retained value - enjoy reliable motoring, get the BMW.
typos1
Yeah, but who in their right
Yeah, but who in their right mind would ever visit a dealer ? Youd go to reputable specialist, unless youre totally stupid.
XXXX just went POP.
Will86
Tyre profile
Interesting that even an M Sport X3 now has decent side walls to the tyres. Maybe BMW are waking up to the fact that rubberbands don't make good tyres.
Knucklehead
Angry Birds Pig
Is it just me or does it look like an Angry Birds Pig character? I can't unsee it - so neither should you!
clbmw
Damn you! I really liked the
Damn you! I really liked the look of this X3 now I just want to see one in an individual green :)
Merlot
Nav screen
I see it has the stuck on, aftermarket look nav screen that BMW seems to be gravitating to. At least Audi seems to have abandoned this for it's new larger cars albeit the approach they take for the A4/A5/Q5 looks so shocking I don't know how they got it through focus groups.
Deputy
Not for anyone younger than 45....
Come on BMW it's nearly 2018! I like your cars but your competitors are better connected (and Autocar reviews still don't do much on infotainment details)
230SL
You want to play with your
You want to play with your phone? Pull over, get a driver or take the bus.
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