New 2011 BMW X3 launched

BMW India has launched its all-new X3 SUV. The new X3 is available with a 2.0 184bhp and 3.0-litre 258bhp diesel engines.

The X3 packs BMW’s eight-speed gearbox along with a Dynamic Damper Control and an engine start-stop function as standard. Also standard is BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles. 

The new model gets muscular styling as compared to the one it replaces and is 83mm longer and 28mm wider than the model it replaces and it sits on a slightly longer wheelbase. It also weighs 90kgs less than the earlier 2.0 diesel car

Additional features include bi-xenon headlights with LED rings.  The X3 2.0-litre gets 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch high resolution display screen while the 3.0 version gets 18-inch alloys and a bigger 8.8-inch high resolution display screen.

Bluetooth connectivity and a USB slot are standard so is the full-size panaromic sunroof. The unique 40:20:40 split rear seats can be flipped down to expand storage space as required.

The new X3 competes with the likes of Audi Q5, Land Rover Freelander and Volvo XC60. 

BMW has priced the 2.0-litre X3 at Rs 41.2 lakh while the 3.0-litre version starts at Rs 47.99 lakh. With Audi recently slashing prices of its Q5 2.0 TDI which now starts at Rs 35.13 lakh, the mid-size luxury SUV competition is sure to heat up.