The X3 was totally revamped for 2011 and continues forward unchanged for 2012, but 2013 will see a new turbocharged four-cylinder base engine was equipped with a larger body, more powerful engines and a more comfortable ride than its predecessor.
Two engines were offered at launch, a 240-horsepower/221 ft-lb 3.0-litre normally aspirated inline six, and a 300-horsepower/300 ft-lb, turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six. Both used BMW's eight-speed automatic transmission-no manual transmission was offered. For 2013, the normally aspirated engine will be dropped in favour of BMW's new TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine.
The 2.0-litre powerplant also produces 240 horsepower, but rather than 221 ft-lbs of torque, the new engine is capable of 260 ft-lbs, from 1,250 rpm. This will improve the performance of the entry-level X3 model considerably.
The new 2.0-litre four-cylinder makes 240-horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: BMW)
BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system is supplemented by the Performance Control feature, which adjusts torque split to the outside wheel deemed most beneficial to the cornering maneuver the X3 is undertaking. The system also applies brake pressure to a countering wheel to aid the process.
Ride and handling benefit from a wide track, along with a double-joint spring-strut suspension system in the front and a multi-link rear suspension arrangement. The X3's optional Electronic Damping Control automatically adjusts the firmness of the shock absorbers to suit the situation.
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