Simple straight six motors have been a BMW hallmark for decades, but the German automaker is now firmly entrenched in the world of turbocharging as it moves to boosted lower-displacement engines. (The automaker's 1-Series coupe also used the naturally-aspirated 3.0-liter inline six in 2012, but that model is expected to be replaced by an exclusively turbocharged 2-Series for 2013).
BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system remains standard, as does an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite the arrival of a new engine, the entry-level X3 retains its xDrive28i nomenclature.
The uplevel xDrive35i returns mostly unchanged for 2013, although its 3.0-liter twin-scroll single turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine gains the same start/stop system used in the xDrive28i.
No styling changes are expected, although BMW has not released any images of the 2013s (the 2012s are pictured).
The reduced cylinder count brings with it a price hike to $39,395 including a mandatory $895 destination charge for the xDrive28i and $44,495 for the xDrive35i. BMW says those prices represent a $1,400 and $900 hike, respectively.
Some minor option shuffling means that a power tailgate is now standard on all models, while the optional Driver Assistance Package now includes lane departure warning and the similarly optional M Sport Package now comes with 19 inch wheels on the xDrive28i.
BMW says that the 2013 X3 will go into production at its Spartanburg, South Carolina, assembly plant in April before arriving in dealers in May.
