Launched two months ago with only a diesel engine option; the new BMW X3 now gets a petrol engine option, as well.
The BMW X3 xDrive30i packs a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol (shared with the 3- and 5-series) which makes 252hp and 350Nm of torque. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, BMW claims the petrol-engined X3 will do 0-100kph in 6.3sec.
The brand is expected to introduce a 360hp, 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol engine in the M40i (rivalling the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupé in India on power and price) and a 265hp, 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel motor in the xDrive30d, at a later date.
Thanks to its new underpinnings, the third-gen X3 is significantly stiffer and around 55kg lighter than its predecessor. While it retains the same overall dimensions, the wheelbase on the new X3 is longer, which helps liberate more interior space.
Compared to the second-gen model, the new X3’s interior has been significantly updated, as well. The in-cabin tech is shared with the 5-series, which includes the touch-and-gesture-controlled iDrive infotainment system, a head-up display and 360-degree cameras.
Unlike the xDrive20d – which can be had in a lower 'Expedition' trim – the xDrive30i is only available in a single, fully-loaded Luxury Line trim, priced at Rs 56.90 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
As for its competition, the BMW X3 xDrive 30i squares-off against the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic, the Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE and the hybrid Lexus NX 300h.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
