2010 BMW X3 Review

[BmwDubai]

The X3 is a compact crossover SUV from BMW.

Introduced in 2004, the X3 is built on the 3 Series car’s chassis and is designed to offer sedan-like on-road performance along with the practicality of a compact SUV. The five-seater X3 hasn’t done very well in the Middle East, unlike big brother X5, which is a regional darling.

When launched, the X3 had little competition; the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLK had not yet arrived on the scene. Things have changed now and knowing this BMW is working at launching the next generation X3 sometime in 2011.

The current X3 range in the Middle East includes the 2.0i, 2.5si and the 3.0si each of which come with a different petrol engine. The top end 3.0si features a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine rated at 260bhp. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard while a five-speed automatic transmission is optional on the 2.5si and the 3.0si. The 3.0si with xDrive has a favourable power to weight ratio, which translates into brisk acceleration, dynamic handling and high levels of grip.

Though the X3 comes with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive and hill descent control it was never really built to go off-road. It has also come to be known for its harsh ride especially on broken tarmac, an area that BMW has been improving through successive suspension upgrades.

A sport package is available and includes larger 18-inch alloy wheels (regular are 17-inch), firmer suspension and sport front seats. A leather-clad M steering wheel and leather gear knob are standard. Options include front and rear sunroof, leather upholstery, navigation system, steering-linked xenon headlamps, and front and rear parking sensors.

SOURCE: http://automiddleeast.com/2010-bmw-x3/