2016 BMW X3, X5 petrol launched

BMW has expanded its petrol model line-up with the launch of the X3 xDrive28i and the larger X5 xDrive35i. Priced at Rs 54.9 lakh and Rs 73.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), respectively, the two models are available in mid-level variants only with the pricing placing them up to Rs 1 lakh over their equivalent diesel counterparts.

Both models feature xDrive all-wheel drive and are locally assembled at the automaker’s Chennai factory.

The X3 xDrive28i is powered by the automaker’s 2.0-litre TwinPower four-cylinder turbo-petrol motor good for 245hp and 350Nm of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard. BMW claims that the SUV is capable of sprinting from 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds.

The petrol SUV in the mid-level xLine trim features an identical equipment list to its more affordable diesel sibling – the X3 20d xLine is priced at Rs 53.9 lakh. Equipment on offer includes front and rear parking sensors, parking camera, BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with Navigation, a 205W HiFi audio system and a host of safety features such as airbags, stability control and tyre pressure monitoring system.

The larger X5 xDrive35i on the other hand makes use of the automaker’s 3.0-litre TwinPower, in-line six-cylinder turbo-petrol motor good for 306hp and 400Nm of torque. As with its smaller sibling, the X5 xDrive35i too is offered with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and has a claimed 0-100kph sprint time of 6.5 seconds.

As with the X3, the larger X5 is available in the mid-level Design Pure Excellence trim but unlike the diesel model which has a seven-seat option, the petrol is offered as a five-seater only. Standard equipment on offer is identical to the diesel and includes adaptive LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, launch control, iDrive infotainment system with navigation, a 600W Harman Kardon audio system and safety system like airbags, stability control and traction control.

The petrol X3 directly rivals the Mercedes GLC 300 and Land Rover Discovery Sport petrol. In terms of pricing, the X3 petrol sits squarely between its two direct rivals with the GLC 300 being the more affordable at Rs 51.9 lakh and the Discovery Sport the more expensive at Rs 56.5 lakh. The petrol X5 on the other hand directly rivals the Mercedes GLE 400 and is priced on par.

The automaker plans to introduce petrol models across its entire line-up in light of the rising anti-diesel sentiment. The next petrol model from the brand could be the petrol X1 which the automaker confirmed for launch at the Auto Expo earlier this year.

(All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi)