Autoblog

2011 BMW X3 fills out, adds a dash of sport

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:50:00 EST

2011 BMW X3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Behold the 2011 BMW X3. It's longer, wider and taller than its predecessors, but you'd be forgiven for thinking it looks remarkably similar to the last X3.

Naturally, BMW's twin-kidney grille is affixed up front, but like the new 5 and 7 Series, it's more upright and slightly larger than before. The lower air dam is slightly chiseled while staying true to BMW's recent organic shapes, and the wider headlamps come equipped with "Corona Rings" and optional Xenon bulbs.

Viewed in profile, the outgoing X3's slab sides have been augmented with a character line running aft of the front wheels and kicking up over the rear fenders, while an upswept D-pillar compliments the redesigned LED taillamps and subtle crease over the rear-mounted Roundel. All in, the new X3 (F25) is half an inch taller, 3.36 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider with a half-inch increase in ground clearance. In keeping with tradition, it's a "lifestyle" vehicle first with no pretenses of hardcore off-roading.

Like the outside, the interior is a subtle evolution of its forebear, with a staid German style balancing functionality and form. The joystick-style transmission lever carries over from BMW's most recent models, along with an 8.8-inch iDrive-controlled screen and a redesigned steering wheel with aluminum accents on the paddle shifters and lower spoke. With the rear seats set in place, rear cargo volume comes in at 19 cubic feet, growing to 56.6 cubes with the 60:40 rear seats folded flat.

The entry-level X3 xDrive28i comes equipped with BMW's naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline six rated at 240 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque, allowing BMW's best-selling 'ute to sprint to 60 in 6.7 seconds - about a half second quicker than the outgoing model. Step up for the X3 xDrive35i and you're basking in 300 hp and 300 lb-ft provided by BMW's new single-turbo N55 inline-six. The 0-60 run clocks in at a claimed 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph when kitted out with the optional Sport package.

Channeling that power to the ground is a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox with wider spreads and taller cruising gears to keep fuel economy in check, while standard all-wheel drive splits torque 40:60 front-to-rear thanks to an electronically controlled multi-disc diff and a host of other gizmos.

The MacPherson front struts have been redeveloped along with the multi-link rear suspension, while an optional electronic damping control adapts to the road and driver inputs. Normal, Sport and Sport Plus modes are mounted next to the gear selector, tweaking throttle response, transmission shifts, steering assist, DSC settings and suspension firmness.

The newest electronic system for the X3 is the Performance Control feature, which shuffles 80 percent of the torque to the rear under steady-state throttle. Like Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the BMW's system brakes the inside rear wheel and powers the outside roller to curb understeer and provide a more neutral driving feeling.

Production of the X3 will remain at BMW's Spartanburg, SC plant and sales are set to begin towards the end of the year. Hit the jump for the full details and check out the positively massive gallery of images below.

Gallery: 2011 BMW X3

Continue reading 2011 BMW X3 fills out, adds a dash of sport

2011 BMW X3 fills out, adds a dash of sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First details on 2011 BMW X3 leak out

Zach Bowman — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:31:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Europe, Paris Motor Show, BMW, UK, Luxury, Off-Road

2011 BMW X3 - Click above for image gallery

BMW has just dropped a few juicy details about the 2011 X3 on the web along with a few camo'd photos. With the addition of the X1 in European markets, the Bavarian automaker is looking to give its middle child a little extra interior space, so the 2011 X3 will be slightly wider and longer than the beasts currently prowling the Costco parking lot. Even so, weight has been slimmed by around 55 pounds and in a nod to ever-increasing fuel economy concerns, the automaker has also decided to switch the power steering on the X3 from pneumatic to electric to reduce drag on the engine.

Speaking of engines, there won't be any major surprises under the hood. UK buyers will be able to choose between a total of four engines - the standard fair available here in the land of the free plus two turbo-diesel mills. We wouldn't exactly hold our breath waiting for those to show up in our neck of the woods at launch.

Interestingly enough, Autocar reports that BMW is currently investigating a turbocharged four-cylinder variant as well as an AcitveHybrid flavor, though who knows if either of those are slated for U.S. consumption. Look for a full unveil at this year's Paris Motor Show.

Gallery: 2011 BMW X3

[Source: Autocar]

First details on 2011 BMW X3 leak out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW teasing 2011 X3 well in advance

Zach Bowman — Mon, 24 May 2010 10:39:00 EST

Filed under: Paris Motor Show, Crossover, BMW, Design/Style, Luxury

2011 BMW X3 teaser shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 Paris Motor Show may be five months out at this point, but that isn't stopping manufacturers like BMW from getting the ball rolling on the long, slow, aggravating striptease of new models. The German manufacturer has just dropped a few sneaky shots of the all-new 2011 X3 for the motoring world to start speculating over. So what do we see? A hood, a taillight, a few body lines and not much else.

It's clear that the hood now wears similar styling to what you'll find on the 3 Series and 5 Series thanks to a few more contours than the previous piece. Beyond that, we don't know too much about the new Bavarian high-rider other than it can whip up a bomb scare in a hurry.

Judging from the spy shots we've come across thus far, we aren't expecting particularly dramatic changes to the X3's exterior. A reworked fascia is likely to join the new hood and taillights, and there is some talk of a four-cylinder engine making its way under the hood for the first time.

Gallery: 2011 BMW X3 Teaser

[Source: BMW]

BMW teasing 2011 X3 well in advance originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW wants more people to custom-order X3s with high-margin options

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 17 May 2010 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, BMW

When the second generation X3 goes on sale early next year BMW wants more of its American customers to start special ordering the crossovers rather than buying them off the lot. Custom orders are more the norm in Europe where about half of all BMWs are spec'd up before being delivered to the buyer, and BMW has been promoting its Individual program which allows customers to pick and choose the colors and materials in their vehicles.

The advantage to BMW is that these optioned vehicles have much higher profit margins than the standard configurations typically stocked by dealers. If BMW can succeed in getting more custom orders for the X3 and other models it will improve the bottom line for both its dealers and the automaker as lots won't have to stock nearly as much inventory. The biggest problem is changing American's desire to show up at a dealer and drive something off the lot that day.

Promoting build-to-order will be much easier with the new X3 because production of the new model will be moved from Austria to the recently expanded Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. Building the crossovers here will allow BMW to drastically cut delivery times and BMW will also be more heavily promoting its factory delivery program and the driving classes it offers at the adjacent Performance Center.

[Source: AutoWeek]

BMW wants more people to custom-order X3s with high-margin options originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 May 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BREAKING: BMW X3 prototype reportedly causes bomb scare outside NY museum

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 09 May 2010 18:18:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Government/Legal, Safety, Crossover, BMW

2011 BMW X3 prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Note To Self: Don't leave camouflaged prototypes parked with the engine running next to Central Park in Manhattan. Just a week after a failed car bomb attempt in Times Square, Manhattan is understandably still a bit jittery. An apparent error in judgement by Martin Birkmann, head of product planning for BMW North America, reportedly triggered a bomb scare and the resulting evacuation of several blocks along Central Park West near the American Museum of Natural History this afternoon.

Birkmann was out evaluating a prototype 2011 BMW X3 covered in camouflage when he stopped to enjoy a bit of fresh air in the park. He inadvertently left the engine running and a woman walking her dog rightly thought the vehicle looked suspicious - particularly understandable given that New Yorkers are not as used to seeing such prototypes out and about as much as, say, your average Detroiter.

Police responded to investigate, and after clearing the area of bystanders, found no reason for alarm. Everyone was safe, although the back window of the X3 prototype was apparently shattered in the process. No doubt Birkmann will think twice about where he parks such vehicles in the future. Hat tip to Michael!

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3

[Source: New York Daily News | Image: CarPix]

BREAKING: BMW X3 prototype reportedly causes bomb scare outside NY museum originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 09 May 2010 18:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: BMW X4 back on the table?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Crossover, BMW

Were you, like us, just thinking that BMW's U.S. lineup would be fully complete if only it had just one more ~~crossover utility~~ Sports Activity Vehicle that slotted in somewhere between the small X3 and midsize X5? If so, we have good news. Just such a vehicle - logically and tentatively named the X4 - is rumored to be in development. Again.

Just as the X6 was designed as a sportier take on the more traditional SUV-shaped X5, the new X4 would inject a bit more Bavarian flavor into the plain ol' X3. Citing an unnamed source within the company, Autocar reports, "We haven't made any firm decision... however, the X6's success shows there is a continued demand for sporty off-roaders."

Yes, we've heard this rumor before, but not since 2008. Why the possible change of heart? Despite drawing ire from what seems to be a vocal minority, BMW reports that the X6 is handily outpacing its own initial sales projections. In fact, it's 80,000 sales worldwide is twice what the automaker had expected to sell. And one good turn deserves... something.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: BMW X4 back on the table? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3 out and about in Munich

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Paris Motor Show, Crossover, BMW

2011 BMW X3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're expecting the 2011 BMW X3 to debut sometime this year and judging by this latest crop of spy shots out of Munich, Bimmer's mid-level 'ute should be ready for prime-time when the Paris Motor Show rolls around this Fall.

Although the prototype appears slightly larger than the current model, the changes will be largely cosmetic, particularly up front, where the outgoing X3's plebeian proboscis has been dispatched in favor of BMW's new upright fascia. The headlamps appear to have grown in size and we're particularly digging the sculpted bumper, with its larger lower grille, more dramatic lip and angular air intakes.

The styling appears more standard on the sides and out back, although BMW is sure to redesign the D-pillar and fit new LED taillamps inspired by the rest of the range.

Naturally, the 2011 X3 will feature BMW's 3.0-liter six-cylinder powerplants - either naturally aspirated or turbocharged - with a handful of diesel mills available to our friends abroad. However, don't be surprised to hear about some kind of four-cylinder fitted to the X3 after its initial launch, and here's hoping that the 335d and X5 xDrive35d's impressive oilburner finds its way under the hood of the X3 in the U.S. in short order.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3 out and about in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: BMW X3 U.S. launch delayed by up to 6 months for custom order effort

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, BMW, Diesel, Luxury

According to BMW of North America's president, Jim O'Donnell, the Roundel crew will delay the launch of the 2011 BMW X3 by six months to establish a new customer ordering program and iron out which engines will be available in the States.

The move will apparently make the customization of the X3 both easier for consumers and less expensive for BMW, which plans to offer models with the top ten options on dealer lots. Production of the X3 will move from Magna Steyr's facility in Austria to the automaker's Spartanburg, S.C. plant, where it will be built along side the X5 and X6.

Traditionally, the X3 would be available with the bigger and more expensive inline-six at launch, but BMW plans to make four engines available at the onset, likely a naturally aspirated inline six, turbocharged six and possibly a diesel four-cylinder and the recently introduced six-pot from the 335d.

The delay means we won't be seeing the redesigned X3 in showrooms until the middle of 2011 -- some six months after BMW's U.S-built cute 'ute goes on sale in Europe. However, BMW plans to allow customers to begin ordering their X3s in October of 2010, so expect to see the revamped crossover unveiled in production (or light "concept" guise) early next year.

[Source: Autoweek]

REPORT: BMW X3 U.S. launch delayed by up to 6 months for custom order effort originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2010 BMW X3 coming in November

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, BMW

When the X3 launched in 2004 there was no Mercedes GLK or Audi Q5. Now that the other Germans have come with the competition, reports are indicate BMW is moving the launch of the 2010 X3 up to make sure it can compete.

The next X3 will be about four inches longer, a half-inch narrower, and a fraction of an inch taller. The extra length will help improve interior room, but the Sport Activity Vehicle is said to be tuned for increased sporting performance. The features list will include hand-me-downs from the 7 Series such as Night Vision and Heads Up Display, and -- in Europe at least -- six engines will be offered: two gasoline and four diesel. We in the U.S. will probably still make do with the either the naturally aspirated or turbocharged 3.0-liter gas engines and possibly a turbo'd four.

[Source: BMW Blog]

REPORT: 2010 BMW X3 coming in November originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW announces 38-mpg X3 xDrive 18d

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Green, Crossover, BMW

BMW X3 xDrive 18d - Click above for a high-res image gallery

BMW has just announced a new addition to its ~~SUV~~ Sport Activity Vehicle line called the X3 xDrive 18d. Have we mentioned how much we dislike the current naming scheme for BMW 'utes? In any case, the new X3 will come equipped with a 2.0-liter (oddly, not a 1.8-liter as you'd expect from the nomenclature) direct-injected and turbocharged diesel engine that puts out 143 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. More importantly, the 18d manages about 38 miles per gallon (46.5 mpg Imperial, 6.2L per 100 kilometers) in the EU combined cycle. That equates to 165 g/km of carbon emissions, for those keeping track of such things. Despite the all-wheel-drive system's extra weight and drag, the new X3 xDrive 18d is reportedly capable of scooting to 60 mph in just about 10 seconds. Any chance it'll come to the U.S.? Don't count on it. Full press release after the break.

Gallery: BMW X3 xDrive 18d

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW announces 38-mpg X3 xDrive 18d

BMW announces 38-mpg X3 xDrive 18d originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3

Dan Roth — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:32:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, BMW

Boy howdy does that camouflage make it difficult to suss out what's underneath! BMW's cooking up a new X3, expected to drop in 2011, and the changes don't look to be huge. The smallest SAV - BMW's acronym for ~~Stupid Ass~~ Sports Activity Vehicle - will get rhinoplasty to bring some Concept CS cues to the X3. The heavy camo on the rear windows suggest that BMW might be addressing some of the awkwardness that afflicts the current model, a definite plus. Word is that much sweat will be expended over an updated interior in order to keep up with competitors. A less-hideous X3 that retains its chassis moves while coddling you with a better interior? Sounds good to us, even though we'd still rather have an M3 wagon.

[Source: BMW blog, Photo: Priddy]

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW X3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hartge goes off-roading with the X3 "Hunter"

Drew Phillips — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 15:02:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, SUV, BMW, Lifestyle

Click above for a full resolution image

The closest BMW has ever come to having an off-road vehicle was sticking its V8 engines into Range Rovers. Even it's "Sport Activity Vehicle", the X5, rarely sees time off the pavement and sticks to hauling kids to school and soccer practice. Hartge has set out to change that with an off-road program for Bimmer SUVs, the latest of which is an X3 dubbed the "Hunter". The Bavarian tuner gives the mini-ute increased ground clearance with longer springs and shocks as well as spacers up front. An underbody stainless steel skid plate, shortened axle ratio, and automatic differential locks on both axles improve its exploring capabilities. All-terrain tires are a must, and they are mounted on Hartge's lightweight 18-inch "Classic 2" wheels. For the true enthusiast, Hartge offers washable seat covers and a "green look" interior. We doubt Land Rover and Jeep owners will be flocking to their local BMW dealership for a trade-in, but it's definitely one of the more capable off-road BMWs we've seen. The press release is after the jump, and you can view the X3 Hunter in action in the gallery below.

[Source: Hartge]

Gallery: Hartge BMW X3 Hunter

Continue reading Hartge goes off-roading with the X3 "Hunter"

Hartge goes off-roading with the X3 "Hunter" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Dec 2007 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 BMW X3 is the same but different

John Neff — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, BMW

The arrival of the X6 is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to BMW's impending onslaught of CUVs. We mustn't forget one of the CUVs that started it all for the Munich-based automaker - the smallish X3. Though just refreshed, the current X3 is awkward looking, something BMW hopes to fix when the 2010 X3 arrives in late 2009. Shown here in resplendent rendered speculation (click the Read link to see the full version), the next X3 will adopt a front end inspired by the BMW CS Concept that debuted at last year's Shanghai Motor Show. It would appear the concept's flaired nostrels have made their way to the X3's nose, while those split air intakes on the lower bumper are shared with the new X6 and will also likely become a future design cue for BMW activity vehicles. Of course, all new BMWs are getting the ubiquitous but excellent twin-turbo 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower, and we expect the X3 will be no different. That's a good thing, as Dan Roth discovered the current 260 HP 3.0L six in the current X3 gets winded pulling around the vehicle's 4,100+ lb. curb weight.

[Source: egmcartech]

2010 BMW X3 is the same but different originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW going to the dogs: Donates X3 to local Ohio K-9 unit

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:56:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Etc., Government/Legal, BMW

The K-9 unit in Hilliard, Ohio is completely funded by donations from local businesses and organizations. The latest firm to give something to the K-9 team is BMW Financial Services, which provided a specially modified BMW X3. The $50,000 SUV was given to the department in honor of the unit's second birthday and its stellar arrest record. The X3 was kitted out by BMW and other suppliers with a light bar, canine cage, remote controlled door latches, and it touted as being dog and criminal ready. In Hilliard at least, a dog's life has gotten just that much easier.

Thanks for the tip, Oss!

[Source: Auto-Talk]

BMW going to the dogs: Donates X3 to local Ohio K-9 unit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo's XC50 mini-ute still in the making

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 09:02:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Volvo

Volvo's new rival for the BMW X3 is apparently getting close to production. The new Volvo XC50 should reach dealers around the same time as another new Euro rival, the Audi Q5. Looks like there are going to be a lot of good competitors in the premium mini-ute segment. The XC50 will most likely be built on the C1 chassis underpinning the Euro Focus, Mazda3, Volvo S40 and V50. Engines should be similar to the V50's, minus the smaller ones. We're probably going to see gas engines ranging from 145 to 220hp, and perhaps the new diesel D5 unit putting out 180hp.

The Volvo XC50 will look like a mini-me version of the larger XC90. Not a copy, but similar. Infomotori sources are saying that the platform is the same as the V50, with a strong family resemblance to the new Volvo C30. It is also expected to share much with the next-generation Land Rover Freelander/LR3, including its trick AWD system.

Although only labeled a concept at this point, the car should be unveiled at the NAIAS in Detroit in January and go on sale as early as Spring 2008. Expected to be approximately the same size as the Toyota RAV4, it will compete a bit further upscale with the likes of the Lexus RX, BMW X3 and new Acura RDX.

[Source: InfoMotori]

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Volvo's XC50 mini-ute still in the making originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acura prices RDX at $33,610

Erin Mays — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Acura

After much anticipation, Acura's RDX will hit the showroom floor on August 10 with a sticker price starting at $33,610. The vehicle, slated to compete with the likes of the BMW X3, seats five and cranks out 240 hp thanks to its turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine, the first turbo'd Acura this side of the pond.

Adding the optional Technology Package scores you a 410-watt audio system and navi with voice recognition and rearview camera, among other goodies, but it will cost you -- the price jacks up to $37,110.

Acura projects that it will sell 16,000 by the end of 2006 and 40,000 when it has a whole year to work with in '07.

[Source: Automotive News]

Acura prices RDX at $33,610 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jul 2006 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW X3 gets restyle, new engines

Alex Nunez — Tue, 27 Jun 2006 15:06:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Etc., Europe, BMW

BMW's UK division officially revealed the restyled BMW X3 today, and the alterations to the little ute aren't just skin deep.

The car's overall shape is fairly unchanged, but a quick look fore and aft reveals restyled front and rear lower fascias. In front, a new bumper and spoiler are incorporated. Openings below the bumper are now larger, and the foglights have been moved up into the main bodywork. This gives the X3 a tougher appearance when viewed head-on. In back, the rear bumper receives a very subtle restyle, and the taillight clusters now house LEDs instead of traditional bulbs.

Inside, the center console benefits from improved-quality materials, and a new steering wheel is fitted (it should be noted that based on the press photo, this is the same wheel used on the North American model, save for an aluminum accent on the bottom spoke).

Underhood, things get interesting ...

(Keep reading after the jump. Photos, press release also follow)

[Source: BMW UK]

Continue reading BMW X3 gets restyle, new engines

BMW X3 gets restyle, new engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jun 2006 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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