Uncompromising Driving Pleasure: The New BMW X3

Philippines – Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official distributor of BMW cars in the country, launches the new BMW X3 today. Succeeding a top selling Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the new BMW X3 adds a new dimension to the pleasure of driving in its class by raising the benchmarks in agility and efficiency, while at the same time convincing through noticeably increased driving comfort. The Design: Urban elegance, dynamically flowing lines and the characteristic features of a BMW X model The body design of the new BMW X3 conveys urban elegance and versatile agility. The combination of a flat front end and a high rear end produces, when viewed from the side, a dynamically formed wedge shape, indicating the vehicle’s sporting characteristics. The convex and concave surfaces are accentuated with distinctively structured lines. At the front end of the new BMW X3, the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille, a large headlight assembly, a powerful-looking front apron and the distinctively contoured bonnet signalize self-assured presence. Together with the round headlights, the fog lamps, which are positioned far towards the outside, form the light source arrangement that is characteristic of BMW X models. The upper edge of the headlight assembly sports an accentuating chrome trim, creating the focused look so typical of BMW vehicles. The side view of the new BMW X3 is also characterized by a unique interpretation of typical BMW X design features. These include the powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and the instrument panel. The dynamic appearance of the silhouette is additionally accentuated by three characteristic lines. The rear end is characterized by horizontal lines, underlining the new BMW X3’s robust character. Accurately applied lines and expressively modeled surfaces create attractive light and shadow effects. The taillights have a distinctive T shape that is characteristic of the BMW X3. Interior: Premium ambience, intelligent functionality A generous and variable spatial concept, high-grade materials and a characteristic three-dimensional surface design provide the interior of the new BMW X3 with a modern, premium ambience and intelligent functionality. BMW-typical driver orientation is emphasized by the asymmetrically designed centre console. The raised seating position facilitates convenient entry, while optimizing the view of the surrounding traffic. Both up front and at the rear the new BMW X3 has a multitude of large storage compartments, trays and cup holders. The three rear seats offer outstanding comfort for travelling long distances. With a volume of between 550 and 1,600 litres, the luggage compartment of the new BMW X3 is the best in its segment. At the same time, the variability with which available space can be adapted to suit each personal requirement is also unrivalled. Engine range: Four-cylinder diesel of the latest generation The new BMW X3 xDrive20d now offers better performance and higher efficiency than any of its comparable rivals. It is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct injection, delivering a maximum power output of 135 kW/184 hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The engine develops sufficient power to allow the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, reaching top speed at 210 km/h. With an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100 km, the BMW X3 xDrive20d establishes a new benchmark for efficiency in this vehicle segment (CO2 emission level: 147 g/km in conjunction with automatic gearbox). BMW EfficientDynamics in the new BMW X3: Premiere for Auto Start Stop function in conjunction with automatic transmission The BMW X3 xDrive20d comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is combined for the first time with an Auto Start Stop function. When stopping at road junctions or in a traffic jam, the engine is automatically switched off. Furthermore, the equipment featured in all model variants, which include brake energy regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, demand-controlled ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and tires with reduced rolling resistance contribute towards lowering fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. Newly developed suspension, optimized xDrive and unique options for made-to-measure dynamics and comfort. The new BMW X3 comes with permanent four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive as standard. Its electronic control unit, which is interlinked with the DSC Dynamic Stability Control, counteracts at an early stage to oversteer or understeer through fast and precise response. By means of innovative tuning designed to enhance driving dynamics, the intelligent four-wheel drive technology optimizes not only traction, but, above all, handling in bends. The new BMW X3 also features completely redeveloped suspension technology. The combination of a double-joint spring-strut axel at the front and a five-link rear axle offers in conjunction with a widened track (92 mm wider than that of the predecessor) the ideal prerequisites for optimizing agility and driving comfort and an equal degree. EPS Electric Power Steering including the Servotronic function for speed-dependent power steering is incorporated in all versions of the BMW X3 model for the first time and contributes significantly to precise handling. Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X3 is also provided with an extremely torsion-resistant body, precisely defined support structures and large deformation zones. The safety equipment package comprises front and pelvic thorax airbags, side curtain head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts on all seats, belt force limiters, belt latch tensioners and crash-active front headrests as well as ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear compartment. Production at the BMW Spartanburg plant The new BMW X3 is produced at the BMW Spartanburg plant in accordance with stringent BMW Group quality standards. With the production of the BMW X5 and BMW X6 models, the location, which is based in the US Federal State of South Carolina, has become the competence centre for BMW X models within the BMW Group’s worldwide production network. Thanks to comprehensive extension measures, the preconditions for integrating the new BMW X3 into the production process have also been established. The new BMW X3 will be available at all BMW showrooms beginning February 11, 2011 with an introductory price of P4.490M.