The choice to forego the multi-powertrain strategy and develop a separate iX3 successor appears to have freed up the X3 to concentrate on excelling as a combustion automotive – though there may be some electrification on provide: a brand new 30e plug-in hybrid model is on the best way, and all different engines are gentle hybrids. There are 2.0-litre petrol (badged 20) and diesel (20d) choices and the M Efficiency-badged M50 examined right here, which is able to stay the range-topper till the full-fat X3 M arrives. Each mannequin has four-wheel drive, so carries BMW’s xDrive branding.
With 393bhp and 428lb ft of torque, the M50 options what BMW proudly trumpets as essentially the most highly effective six-cylinder inline petrol engine but in an M Efficiency mannequin, which sounds spectacular in case you don’t pause too lengthy to ponder all these caveats.
The fourth-generation X3 is 34mm longer than its predecessor (at 4755mm), 29mm wider (1920mm) and barely decrease. The slight adjustments are meant to offer the machine a sportier stance, and BMW claims the broader monitor can even support dealing with. You’d be hard-pressed to essentially discover a lot of a distinction in its dimensions, although.
However you in all probability will discover the distinction from the previous mannequin by way of design. Whereas the Neue Klasse fashions will usher in a contemporary period of BMW design, this X3 appears to bridge the generations. So it will get a big, upright kidney grille consistent with these options on the agency’s different current fashions, but additionally showcases BMW’s sustainability-driven ‘reductive’ pledge to chop again on design frippery. There’s no chrome grille encompass, for instance: on M50 fashions (and non-obligatory on others), the kidneys are framed by a elaborate LED gentle wrap known as the BMW Iconic Glow.
The bodywork additionally has fewer strains, though large wheel arches and a flat rear window play to SUV styling traits. The rear roof lip encompasses a spoiler, and there are additionally aspect air deflectors, whilst you’ll discover new gentle designs at each ends too. On the again, the exhaust pipes are hidden on all fashions bar the M50, which options pretty outstanding variations to play up its sportiness.
There’s a alternative of 9 commonplace paint colors, and wheel sizes vary from 18in to 21in.