2016 BMW X3 in Durham, NC - $12,488

BMW has introduced the enhanced 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle®. The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin-circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), an eye-catching kidney grille, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – all of which shine a figurative spotlight on the signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived quality also defines the interior of the new BMW X3.

The new xLine allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. xLine models can be identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, satin aluminum side cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated under guards at the front and rear. It also allows customers to choose from additional leather upholstery variants, trim strips and 19-inch light-alloy wheel options.

The dynamic qualities of the BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect by specifying M Sport, with the M aerodynamic package and High-gloss Shadow Line trim maximizing the vehicle’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six paint finishes and two exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 19 and 20-inch format. In the cockpit, Anthracite roof liner and sports seats in various leather upholstery variants intensify the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sport automatic transmission, sport steering and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic performance.

Available in sDrive28i (rear-wheel drive), xDrive28i, xDrive35i and xDrive28d (turbo-diesel) models, the new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of one diesel and two gasoline engines. The state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with low fuel consumption. Base power for the X3 is generated by a 2.0L four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine, while the xDrive35i is equipped with a 3.0L in-line six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine.

The xDrive28d will feature the German automaker’s Advanced Diesel 2.0L four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo diesel engine. The turbo-diesel will accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in just under eight seconds. BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the X3 model a clean diesel.

Torque for all engines is communicated through an 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission, which brings smooth shifting, sportiness and efficiency to new levels of perfection. Compared to the exemplary six-speed automatic offered in past BMW models, the eight-speed has “taller” cruising gears that make a significant contribution to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, as well as quietness. Its wider spread of ratios from lowest to highest gear enhances acceleration and response across the range of driving speeds. The revolutionary design allows for direct shifts from cruising gears to acceleration gears.
Inside the passenger cabin, the BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are fitted with a 6.5” iDrive display and iDrive Controller. BMW Assist eCall, meanwhile, uses an integrated telephone unit to summon rapid assistance. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the new X3. The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. The tailgate can be automatically opened and closed from a new switch in the driver’s door.

A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily. Extendable sunshades and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. The intelligent safety button and the redesigned secondary control stalk switch which debuted in the 2014 BMW X5 are now used in the new BMW X3, driver and front passenger automatic door lock switches are now located in the doors. Elsewhere, the Hi-Fi Sound System Professional from Harman Kardon promises audio pleasure.

Dimensions & specifications 
Wheelbase: 110.6; overall length: 183.8; width: 74.1; height: 66.1
All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo – 240 hp at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and 258 lbs-ft at 1,450-4,800 rpm; 3.0L six-cylinder turbo – 300 hp at 5,800 – 6,000 rpm and 300 lbs-ft of torque at 1,300-5,000 rpm; 2.0L four-cylinder turbo-diesel – 181 hp at 4,000 rpm and 280 lbs-ft of torque at 1,750 -2,750 rpm.
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo – 21 city/28 hwy.; 3.0L six-cylinder turbo – 19 city/26 hwy.; 2.0L four-cylinder turbo-diesel – 27 city/34 hwy.
Cargo capacity: 63.3 cubic feet
Payload capacity: 413 lbs.

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, dynamic brake control, Bluetooth hands free phone system, dynamic cruise control, LED fog lights, automatic headlamps, remote keyless entry, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, hill descent control, start assist, universal garage door opener, BMW Assist, alarm system, all-season run-flat tires, traction control, and dynamic stability control. XDrive35i adds Xenon high-intensity discharge auto-leveling adaptive headlamps.

Optional safety features include: active blind spot detection, active driving assistant, ACC Stop & Go, surround view, speed limit information, adaptive LED lights, comfort access keyless entry, heads-up display, automatic high-beam headlights, navigation system, parking assistant, and rear-view camera.

Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper
Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2015 BMW X3 SAV starts from $38,500 for the sDrive28i, $40,500 for the xDrive28i, $42,000 for the xDrive28d, and $45,500 for the xDrive35i. Destination charges add $950.