2012 BMW X3

Basic Specs

Base Price $36,750
Drivetrain All Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs) 4112
City (MPG) 19
Hwy (MPG) 25
Horsepower 240@6600
Torque (lb-ft) 221@2750-4000
Wheelbase 110.6
Length (in.) 183.0
Width (in.) 74.1
Height (in.) 65.4

BMW has finally completely redesigned its smallest SUV, the X3, complete with changes inside, outside and under the hood.

Despite the long list of improvements, the all-new X3 is actually slightly less expensive, despite being slightly larger and offering a choice of naturally-aspirated or turbocharged inline six-cylinder engines.

The latest generation X3 gains 3.3 inches in overall length, with an added .6 inches to the wheelbase, along with an extra 1.1 inches of width and 1.4 inches of height. Depending on the model, the new X3 still manages to shed about 50 lbs.

Thanks to the larger outer shell, passengers will gain 0.8 inches of legroom in the back row, along with another 2.8 cubic feet of storage space in the rear hatch area.

The exterior of the new model is still recognizable as an X3, albeit with a decidedly more modern look. Nothing radical here, but the X3 now shares the same basic design language as seen on BMW ’s new 5- and 7-Series models.

The outgoing X3 has been criticized for a sub-par interior, but BMW has addressed that issue for the new generation SUV, employing a number of high-end materials.

In the European markets, the new X3 launched with two trim levels — X3 xDrive20d and X3 xDrive35i. The xDrive20d model features a 184 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque version of BMW’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel. While not the powerhouse of the X3 lineup, the four-cylinder diesel is quite peppy, accelerating the X3 from 0-62 in 8.5 seconds, carrying on to a top speed of 130mph.

North American-specification X3s use two familiar inline six-cylinders. Starting at $37,625, the X3 xDrive28i receives a 240-horsepower naturally-aspirated unit also used in the 328i. Stepping up to the $41,925 X3 xDrive35i adds a turbocharged unit rated at 306 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque, transforming the X3 into a serious performer. The sprint from 0-62 takes just 5.7 seconds, with the xDrive35i topping out at 152mph.

Both powerplants are backed by BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission, with the six-cylinder version of the X3 featuring automatic stop-start technology.

Although not unveiled quite yet, BMW is expected to offer an M Sport version of the new X3. The package will come complete with a swap to 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, an M Sport leather steering wheel and the full exterior M Sports aggressively-styled body kit.

Other final touches include a reworked interior that include new sport-minded seats with uniquely matched headliner and matching upholstery, M Sports gear selector and variable steering.

Although not standard, M Sports-equipped X3's will also have an available exclusive color: Carbon Black Metallic.

Key Competitors
Competing against the X3 in the premium small crossover segment are the elegant Audi Q5 , the surprisingly stylish Volvo XC60 and the rugged-looking Mercedes-Benz GLK350.

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    • General
    • Body Style: SUV
    • Size: Compact
    • Market Segment: Near-Luxury
    • Weight: 4112 lbs
    • Exterior
    • Length: 183.0 in.
    • Width: 74.1 in.
    • Height: 65.4 in.
    • Wheelbase: 110.6 in.
    • Ground Clearance: TBD
    • Front Track: 63.6 in.
    • Rear Track: 64.3 in.
    • Weight Distribution: 49.9/50.1
    • Drag Coefficient: 0.35
    • Interior - General
    • Seats: 5
    • Passenger Volume: TBD
    • Cargo Volume: 27.6 cu. ft.
    • Cargo Volume (Seats Folded): TBD
    • Interior - Front Row
    • Volume: TBD
    • Leg Room: 39.9 in.
    • Head Room: 40.7 in.
    • Shoulder Room: 57.3 in.
    • Hip Room: TBD
    • Interior - Second Row
    • Volume: TBD
    • Leg Room: 36.8 in.
    • Head Room: 39.1 in.
    • Shoulder Room: 56.0 in.
    • Hip Room: TBD
    • Propulsion
    • Fuel Type: Gas
    • Engine Type: 3.0L I6
    • Power: 240 hp @ 6600 rpm
    • Torque: 221 lb-ft @ 2750-4000 rpm
    • Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
    • Highway Fuel Economy: 25 mpg
    • City Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
    • Forced Induction: None
    • Direct Injection: No
    • Chassis
    • Layout: All Wheel Drive
    • Front Suspension: Strut-Type
    • Rear Suspension: Multi-Link
    • Wheels
    • Front: 17" Aluminum
    • Front Tires: 245/55
    • Rear: 17" Aluminum
    • Rear Tires: 245/55
    • Trailering & Hauling
    • Trailer Weight: 3000 lbs
    • Payload: 904
    • Tongue Weight: TBD

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      Technology Package

      • • Online Information Services • Park Distance Control • BMW Assist including Mobile Office and Bluetooth audio functionality • Navigation system • Rear View Camera with Top View • Real Time Traffic Information • Premium Package

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      • • Xenon headlights • Cargo net • Adaptive light control • Comfort Access keyless entry • Rear manual side window shades • Power tailgate

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      • • Interior light package • Storage package • Auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors • Panoramic moonroof • Lumbar support • Universal garage-door opener

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      • • Sports leather steering wheel with paddle shifters • Sport automatic transmission with shift paddles • X-Line exterior trim package • Roof rails in Aluminum Satin • Sport seats

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      • • Performance Control • Dynamic Damper Control • Variable sport steering

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      • • Retractable headlight washers • Rear seat backrest with 40:20:40 split • Heated Steering Wheel • Heated rear seats • Heated front seats

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