FatBoySlim
Expert Member
It's called upselling and catering for all markets, a common phenomenon in standard business.
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The BMW X3 Thread
- Thread starter FiestaST
- Start date
It's called upselling and catering for all markets, a common phenomenon in standard business.
FatBoySlim
Expert Member
Agreed. The first X3 that caters for men, or straight men at least.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
[video=youtube_share;anp7z3L0_vg]https://youtu.be/anp7z3L0_vg[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW announces plan to electrify EVERY model series
Expect a charging port to soon be available on any BMW model series.
The BMW Group has announced that all of its model series will in the near future be able to accommodate electrification, with a full-electric or plug-in hybrid drivetrain being offered in addition to the regular combustion engine option.
The German automaker said that “additional electrified models” would be brought to market in the coming years. Beyond 2020, the company added that its “next-generation vehicle architecture will enable further fully electric vehicles”.
The BMW Group furthermore announced that the new battery-electric Mini would be a variant of the three-door model and go into production in 2019. The battery Mini’s electric drivetrain will be built at the BMW Group’s e-mobility centre at Plants Dingolfing and Landshut in Bavaria, before being integrated into the car at Plant Oxford.
The Munich-based brand also confirmed that an all-electric BMW X3 was scheduled to arrive in 2020.
By 2025, the BMW Group said it expected electrified vehicles to account for between 15 and 25% of sales. However, it added that “factors such as regulation, incentives and charging infrastructure” would play a major role in determining the scale of electrification from market to market.
“In order to react quickly and appropriately to customer demand, the BMW Group has developed a uniquely flexible system across its global production network. In the future, the BMW Group production system will create structures that enable our production facilities to build models with a combustion engine, plug-in hybrid or fully electric drivetrain at the same time,” the automaker said in a statement.
The BMW Group currently produces electrified models at ten plants worldwide.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-announces-plan-to-electrify-every-model-series/
Expect a charging port to soon be available on any BMW model series.
The BMW Group has announced that all of its model series will in the near future be able to accommodate electrification, with a full-electric or plug-in hybrid drivetrain being offered in addition to the regular combustion engine option.
The German automaker said that “additional electrified models” would be brought to market in the coming years. Beyond 2020, the company added that its “next-generation vehicle architecture will enable further fully electric vehicles”.
The BMW Group furthermore announced that the new battery-electric Mini would be a variant of the three-door model and go into production in 2019. The battery Mini’s electric drivetrain will be built at the BMW Group’s e-mobility centre at Plants Dingolfing and Landshut in Bavaria, before being integrated into the car at Plant Oxford.
The Munich-based brand also confirmed that an all-electric BMW X3 was scheduled to arrive in 2020.
By 2025, the BMW Group said it expected electrified vehicles to account for between 15 and 25% of sales. However, it added that “factors such as regulation, incentives and charging infrastructure” would play a major role in determining the scale of electrification from market to market.
“In order to react quickly and appropriately to customer demand, the BMW Group has developed a uniquely flexible system across its global production network. In the future, the BMW Group production system will create structures that enable our production facilities to build models with a combustion engine, plug-in hybrid or fully electric drivetrain at the same time,” the automaker said in a statement.
The BMW Group currently produces electrified models at ten plants worldwide.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-announces-plan-to-electrify-every-model-series/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
NEW M5 AND X3 M40I TO DEBUT AT BMW M FESTIVAL IN SA!
BMW South Africa has announced that it will hold an “M Festival” at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg on 21 and 22 October 2017, with a handful of enticing upcoming models set to debut locally at the event.
The local arm of the German automaker says the festival will give “customers, fans and car enthusiasts” a preview of upcoming BMW M products, as well as allowing them to experience hot laps and book test drives across the range.
The new F90-generation M5 will make an appearance ahead of its local launch, while the special-edition M4 CS will hit the market at the festival itself. In addition, BMW says the first M Performance model in the new X3 range – the BMW X3 M40i – will be on display, ahead of its local launch in November.
The X3 M40i will employ a 3,0-litre inline-six with an output of 265 kW, which the Munich-based brand says will send the flagship X3 to 100 km/h in just 4,8 seconds.
“South Africa has been one of the top performers in the world in terms of BMW M market share and sales,” said Alexander Baraka, general manager for marketing services at BMW Group SA.
“For example, since 2015, BMW South Africa has been ranked fifth in the world in terms of overall BMW M market share and managed to rise up to third place this year.
“It is therefore very clear that South Africans are big fans of our BMW M vehicles and – as seen at the international BMW M Festival held annually at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring – we would like to use the BMW M Festival as an opportunity to inspire our customers and fans with innovative experiential platforms,” Baraka added.
BMW says those who attend will get the opportunity to “participate in drag races” and drifting, book test drives and enjoy live music and “gourmet food”. The BMW DTM race team (Team Schnitzer with driver Tom Blomqvist) will also make an appearance, offering visitors hot laps in the M4 DTM car.
In addition, the Gauteng BMW Car Club Concours Event will take place at the BMW M Festival.
A one-day pass will set you back R150 if you opt for the “M-Ticket” (which includes access to the festival, main music stage, food and lifestyle village, as well as a peek at the M cars display, vintage M display and the right to sign up for “one of hundreds” of BMW M car track test drives, on a first-come, first-served basis), while going for the “M-VIP Ticket” instead will cost you R500 (but adds access to the BMW M Sky Lounge with cash bar, bar snacks, private ablutions, VIP parking and entrance to the evening’s M-Afterparty).
An “M-Hospitality” package, priced at R2 500, will also be on offer, adding VVIP parking, a private area within the M VIP lounge with a view of the track, concierge, all-day canapés as well as “all local spirits, beers and wines”.
If you prefer a weekend pass, the M-Ticket will cost R250, the M-VIP Ticket R900 and the M-Hospitality package R4 500.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/new-m5-and-x3-m40i-to-debut-at-bmw-m-festival-in-sa/
BMW South Africa has announced that it will hold an “M Festival” at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg on 21 and 22 October 2017, with a handful of enticing upcoming models set to debut locally at the event.
The local arm of the German automaker says the festival will give “customers, fans and car enthusiasts” a preview of upcoming BMW M products, as well as allowing them to experience hot laps and book test drives across the range.
The new F90-generation M5 will make an appearance ahead of its local launch, while the special-edition M4 CS will hit the market at the festival itself. In addition, BMW says the first M Performance model in the new X3 range – the BMW X3 M40i – will be on display, ahead of its local launch in November.
The X3 M40i will employ a 3,0-litre inline-six with an output of 265 kW, which the Munich-based brand says will send the flagship X3 to 100 km/h in just 4,8 seconds.
“South Africa has been one of the top performers in the world in terms of BMW M market share and sales,” said Alexander Baraka, general manager for marketing services at BMW Group SA.
“For example, since 2015, BMW South Africa has been ranked fifth in the world in terms of overall BMW M market share and managed to rise up to third place this year.
“It is therefore very clear that South Africans are big fans of our BMW M vehicles and – as seen at the international BMW M Festival held annually at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring – we would like to use the BMW M Festival as an opportunity to inspire our customers and fans with innovative experiential platforms,” Baraka added.
BMW says those who attend will get the opportunity to “participate in drag races” and drifting, book test drives and enjoy live music and “gourmet food”. The BMW DTM race team (Team Schnitzer with driver Tom Blomqvist) will also make an appearance, offering visitors hot laps in the M4 DTM car.
In addition, the Gauteng BMW Car Club Concours Event will take place at the BMW M Festival.
A one-day pass will set you back R150 if you opt for the “M-Ticket” (which includes access to the festival, main music stage, food and lifestyle village, as well as a peek at the M cars display, vintage M display and the right to sign up for “one of hundreds” of BMW M car track test drives, on a first-come, first-served basis), while going for the “M-VIP Ticket” instead will cost you R500 (but adds access to the BMW M Sky Lounge with cash bar, bar snacks, private ablutions, VIP parking and entrance to the evening’s M-Afterparty).
An “M-Hospitality” package, priced at R2 500, will also be on offer, adding VVIP parking, a private area within the M VIP lounge with a view of the track, concierge, all-day canapés as well as “all local spirits, beers and wines”.
If you prefer a weekend pass, the M-Ticket will cost R250, the M-VIP Ticket R900 and the M-Hospitality package R4 500.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/new-m5-and-x3-m40i-to-debut-at-bmw-m-festival-in-sa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
425bhp (317kw) BMW X3 M: upcoming Macan Turbo rival due this year
Following the launch of the all-new X3, a pumped-up version has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring with almost no camouflage
BMW will launch a hot X3 M later this year as the range-topping variant of the latest X3 SUV to rival the Porsche Macan Turbo.
The new X3 flagship model has been photograped testing at the Nürburgring with next to no camouflage, revealing the M division enhancements its body will recieve over the regular car.
Bolder bumpers and more prominent exhausts are clear signals to the car's performance. It'll also get larger diameter wheels, although this test car' features mismatched alloys. Like the regular car, the X3 M will feature LED lighting as standard.
The biggest changes for the M model are under its bonnet, where the X3 M uses a 425bhp turbocharged straight six engine, which is related to the one used in the M3 and M4.
The new X3 M, also due to face the Mercedes-AMG GLC63, will be built around the same revised high-strength steel platform with a modified double-wishbone (front) and multi-link (rear) suspension as the new X3 - a set-up that is predicted to be used for an X4 M model next year.
It will sit above the current hottest model, the X3 M40i M Performance. That car is also powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six but in less hardcore form, so it generates 355bhp - still good enough to get the M40i to 62mph in 4.8sec. This suggests the X3 M could cover 0-62mph in around 4.5sec.
The X3 M40i costs from £51,280, so the X3 M is likely to be available from just over £60,000 - aligning it closely with the Macan Turbo, which starts at £62,540
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-bmw-x3-and-x3-m-hot-suv-latest-spy-pictures
Following the launch of the all-new X3, a pumped-up version has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring with almost no camouflage
BMW will launch a hot X3 M later this year as the range-topping variant of the latest X3 SUV to rival the Porsche Macan Turbo.
The new X3 flagship model has been photograped testing at the Nürburgring with next to no camouflage, revealing the M division enhancements its body will recieve over the regular car.
Bolder bumpers and more prominent exhausts are clear signals to the car's performance. It'll also get larger diameter wheels, although this test car' features mismatched alloys. Like the regular car, the X3 M will feature LED lighting as standard.
The biggest changes for the M model are under its bonnet, where the X3 M uses a 425bhp turbocharged straight six engine, which is related to the one used in the M3 and M4.
The new X3 M, also due to face the Mercedes-AMG GLC63, will be built around the same revised high-strength steel platform with a modified double-wishbone (front) and multi-link (rear) suspension as the new X3 - a set-up that is predicted to be used for an X4 M model next year.
It will sit above the current hottest model, the X3 M40i M Performance. That car is also powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six but in less hardcore form, so it generates 355bhp - still good enough to get the M40i to 62mph in 4.8sec. This suggests the X3 M could cover 0-62mph in around 4.5sec.
The X3 M40i costs from £51,280, so the X3 M is likely to be available from just over £60,000 - aligning it closely with the Macan Turbo, which starts at £62,540
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-bmw-x3-and-x3-m-hot-suv-latest-spy-pictures
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW has invested an additional R160-million in Plant Rosslyn.
BMW Group South Africa has announced the investment of an additional R160-million in Plant Rosslyn ahead of the start of production of the new X3.
The fresh investment is in addition to the R6-billion announced back in November 2015.
The local arm of the Munich-based automaker says the latest investment will raise the factory’s maximum production capacity from 71 000 units to 76 000 units, which leaves the plant with “excellent potential” to hit the highest volume ever in its 44-year history.
Production at Plant Rosslyn will transition from the 3 Series to the X3 in the first half of 2018. Interestingly, the new X3 will be produced for the local market and later also exported to Europe.
BMW SA says “supplier development and localisation strategies are in progress”, adding that it is “confident that the BMW X3 will be more localised than the current BMW 3 Series”.
“We are greatly encouraged by the amazing performance of our BMW X-models around the world. This growth trend supports our decision to produce the BMW X3 in South Africa,” said Tim Abbott, CEO BMW Group South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
“The potential for the future is exciting as ultimately production volume is determined by global demand for our products.”
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-sa-invests-r160m-more-ahead-of-x3-production/
BMW Group South Africa has announced the investment of an additional R160-million in Plant Rosslyn ahead of the start of production of the new X3.
The fresh investment is in addition to the R6-billion announced back in November 2015.
The local arm of the Munich-based automaker says the latest investment will raise the factory’s maximum production capacity from 71 000 units to 76 000 units, which leaves the plant with “excellent potential” to hit the highest volume ever in its 44-year history.
Production at Plant Rosslyn will transition from the 3 Series to the X3 in the first half of 2018. Interestingly, the new X3 will be produced for the local market and later also exported to Europe.
BMW SA says “supplier development and localisation strategies are in progress”, adding that it is “confident that the BMW X3 will be more localised than the current BMW 3 Series”.
“We are greatly encouraged by the amazing performance of our BMW X-models around the world. This growth trend supports our decision to produce the BMW X3 in South Africa,” said Tim Abbott, CEO BMW Group South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
“The potential for the future is exciting as ultimately production volume is determined by global demand for our products.”
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-sa-invests-r160m-more-ahead-of-x3-production/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW SA boss says: 'We're going to need more X3s!'
BMW is to pump yet another R160 million into its Rosslyn plant to speed up production.
That’s on top of the R6 billion investment announced in November 2015 to rebuild the production line for the new X3, which will be built here for the local market and for export to Europe, starting in the first half of 2018.
The extra input will increase the new production line’s maximum capacity by almost 10 percent, from 71 000 a year to 76 000 - which, if it’s realised, would be the highest yet in the plant’s 44 year history.
Success story
BMW South Africa CEO Tim Abbott said the group had been encouraged to plan for increased production by the unexpected success of its SUV range worldwide. X-models accounted for more than 30 percent of BMW sales in 2016, he said - and one in four of those was an X3.
The production line machinery was ready, he said, and the staff had been trained in the new technology; supplier development was in progress, he added, and he was confident that the new X3 would have more local content than the outgoing 3 Series, which would continue to be built at Rosslyn until early in the new year.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/bmw-sa-boss-says-were-going-to-need-more-x3s-11453594
BMW is to pump yet another R160 million into its Rosslyn plant to speed up production.
That’s on top of the R6 billion investment announced in November 2015 to rebuild the production line for the new X3, which will be built here for the local market and for export to Europe, starting in the first half of 2018.
The extra input will increase the new production line’s maximum capacity by almost 10 percent, from 71 000 a year to 76 000 - which, if it’s realised, would be the highest yet in the plant’s 44 year history.
Success story
BMW South Africa CEO Tim Abbott said the group had been encouraged to plan for increased production by the unexpected success of its SUV range worldwide. X-models accounted for more than 30 percent of BMW sales in 2016, he said - and one in four of those was an X3.
The production line machinery was ready, he said, and the staff had been trained in the new technology; supplier development was in progress, he added, and he was confident that the new X3 would have more local content than the outgoing 3 Series, which would continue to be built at Rosslyn until early in the new year.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/bmw-sa-boss-says-were-going-to-need-more-x3s-11453594
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Here’s how much the new BMW X3 will cost in SA…
Back in June, the new BMW X3 was unveiled in the United States. And now, ahead of a local launch scheduled for November, we can reveal South African pricing for the latest version of the compact luxury crossover, which will be built at Plant Rosslyn from some time in the first half of 2018.
Interestingly, BMW South Africa will import the first batch of new X3 units before local production kicks off at Plant Rosslyn next year.
At launch, the third-generation X3 range will comprise four all-wheel-drive derivatives – two turbocharged petrol engines and two turbodiesel units – each available with the Munich-based brand’s familiar range of equipment lines.
The local G01-generation X3 line-up will kick off with the xDrive20d, priced at R687 506. This derivative employs a 2,0-litre oil-burner (carried over from the outgoing range) worth 140 kW and 400 N.m, mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (a gearbox offered throughout the new range). The obligatory 0-100 km/h dash takes a claimed 8,0 seconds, and BMW says it will sip at 5,7 L/100 km.
Next up is the xDrive30i model (R745 956), which uses a 185 kW/350 N.m 2,0-litre turbocharged petrol four-pot, for a claimed 6,3-second sprint to three figures and a claimed fuel consumption of 7,6 L/100 km.
Forking out R873 088, meanwhile, will buy you the xDrive30d, which boasts a 3,0-litre inline diesel mill delivering 195 kW and 620 N.m – or enough for a claimed 5,8-second sprint from standstill to 100 km/h. Fuel economy, BMW says, comes in at 6,2 L/100 km.
And the range-topper? Well, that’d be the X3 M40i, priced from R1 000 676. Under the bonnet lurks the Bavarian automaker’s petrol-flavoured 3,0-litre turbo-inline-six sending a substantial 265 kW and 500 N.m to all four corners via a sports version of the eight-speed automatic transmission. Vital stats include a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4,8 seconds, a top speed of 250 km/h and claimed fuel economy of 8,9 L/100 km.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/heres-how-much-the-new-bmw-x3-will-cost-in-sa/
Back in June, the new BMW X3 was unveiled in the United States. And now, ahead of a local launch scheduled for November, we can reveal South African pricing for the latest version of the compact luxury crossover, which will be built at Plant Rosslyn from some time in the first half of 2018.
Interestingly, BMW South Africa will import the first batch of new X3 units before local production kicks off at Plant Rosslyn next year.
At launch, the third-generation X3 range will comprise four all-wheel-drive derivatives – two turbocharged petrol engines and two turbodiesel units – each available with the Munich-based brand’s familiar range of equipment lines.
The local G01-generation X3 line-up will kick off with the xDrive20d, priced at R687 506. This derivative employs a 2,0-litre oil-burner (carried over from the outgoing range) worth 140 kW and 400 N.m, mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (a gearbox offered throughout the new range). The obligatory 0-100 km/h dash takes a claimed 8,0 seconds, and BMW says it will sip at 5,7 L/100 km.
Next up is the xDrive30i model (R745 956), which uses a 185 kW/350 N.m 2,0-litre turbocharged petrol four-pot, for a claimed 6,3-second sprint to three figures and a claimed fuel consumption of 7,6 L/100 km.
Forking out R873 088, meanwhile, will buy you the xDrive30d, which boasts a 3,0-litre inline diesel mill delivering 195 kW and 620 N.m – or enough for a claimed 5,8-second sprint from standstill to 100 km/h. Fuel economy, BMW says, comes in at 6,2 L/100 km.
And the range-topper? Well, that’d be the X3 M40i, priced from R1 000 676. Under the bonnet lurks the Bavarian automaker’s petrol-flavoured 3,0-litre turbo-inline-six sending a substantial 265 kW and 500 N.m to all four corners via a sports version of the eight-speed automatic transmission. Vital stats include a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4,8 seconds, a top speed of 250 km/h and claimed fuel economy of 8,9 L/100 km.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/heres-how-much-the-new-bmw-x3-will-cost-in-sa/
Hardly news. The new X3 has been in the online configurator for a while now.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW X3 Specs and Price in South Africa
All BMW X3 models sold in South Africa come with BMW's all-wheel-drive system and all feature automatic transmissions. An 8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission is available as an option, except for the X3 M40i, where it is standard. There are 4 levels of trim: Standard, xLine, Luxury Line and of course the M Sport package. There are plenty of options to consider to truly make each and every X3 unique.
xDrive20d R684 200
xDrive30i R739 800
xDrive30d R868 300
X3 M40i R991 100
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-x3-2018-specs--price/43584/
All BMW X3 models sold in South Africa come with BMW's all-wheel-drive system and all feature automatic transmissions. An 8-speed Sports Automatic Transmission is available as an option, except for the X3 M40i, where it is standard. There are 4 levels of trim: Standard, xLine, Luxury Line and of course the M Sport package. There are plenty of options to consider to truly make each and every X3 unique.
xDrive20d R684 200
xDrive30i R739 800
xDrive30d R868 300
X3 M40i R991 100
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-x3-2018-specs--price/43584/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
What Car? first drive
[video=youtube_share;0WIi-9fh04A]https://youtu.be/0WIi-9fh04A[/video]
[video=youtube_share;0WIi-9fh04A]https://youtu.be/0WIi-9fh04A[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
DRIVEN: BMW X3 M40I
Not always a fan of car designer speak, especially when delving into topics such as “sculpted crease lines” and “emotive surfacing”, I really like head designer, Calvin Luk’s summed-up description of his latest creation, the all-new BMW X3. Standing alongside him at the international launch of the third-generation of one of the most important models in BMW’s current portfolio, Australian Luk says he views the new (G01) X3 as a rugby player dressed in a fitted suit. And, while it helps that it’s the sportiest version of the new range, the X3 M40i, that we’re staring at at the time, I do tend to agree with his observation.
Within what is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested segment battles of recent times, the new BMW X3 is, alongside the likes of the Jaguar F-Pace, setting its stall out to be one of the most dynamic-looking options available. Built on BMW’s new larger but lighter CLAR platform, the third-generation X3 is only marginally longer and wider (though lower) than the model it replaces, yet viewed in the metal you immediately get the sense that the brief was to make the vehicle look bolder and more athletic that before. As such, the company’s signature grille is that much more pronounced, the roof line is that much more swept and the bonnet creases are that much more appreciable. In the first ever M Performance X3, it’s a package granted even more presence by bespoke bumper treatments (front and rear), neat Cerium Grey highlighting (including side mirrors), tailpipe dimension upgrade and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Serving as a constant reminder of that bold exterior styling, the aforementioned bonnet creases (similar to those on the larger X5) are a prominent sight from behind the steering wheel of the new X3. While the M40i’s cabin is lifted with appropriate touches such as sports seats and chrome accenting, like the exterior package, the new X3’s cabin as a whole feels far more svelte and leaner in its application than before. Certainly the adoption of a new platform (and, accordingly, a 50 mm longer wheelbase) has freed up valuable interior space, but you do also get the sense of a greater emphasis placed on ergonomics in the new car. More sculpted than in the previous model, the fact that the centre console is fashioned to face the driver’s seat is immediately obvious. A welcome inclusion in the new interior package is the presence of a more front-and-centre (10,2-inch) infotainment display that now offers touchscreen (yes, as well as gesture control) functionality. To this end, build quality and the use of materials also appears to have been a key focus of attention when designing the new car – a standard that the workforce at Rosslyn will be looking forward to replicating once production of the new X3 begins in South Africa in 2018.
As aggressive as the new X3 M40i looks, its exhaust note (even in default mode) is arranged to do those looks justice. Powered by a (B58) turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, the M40i fires to life with all the verve and purpose of a modern hyper-hatch. And it’s a feeling that never really leaves. Boasting 265 kW and a sturdy 500 N.m from just 1 400 r/min, the newest member of the M Performance portfolio always feels tightly wound up and ready for action. It’s this fact that perhaps most distinguishes the fastest X3 to date from the likes of the new Audi SQ5, the Ingolstadt model offering a somewhat more convincing dual personality.
That said, I have a feeling the SQ5 would have a tough time keeping pace with the X3 M40i over a mountain pass, such is the dynamic ability (highlighted by excellent body control and hot hatch-like turn-in precision) offered by the BMW. While an adaptive suspension setup is optional, the M40i comes standard with M Sport brakes and suspension arrangements as well as an xDrive all-wheel-drive setup tuned for a more pronounced rearwards bias. Tune all the systems, including the excellent eight-speed automatic transmission, to Sport mode and a bonus feature is a smile-inducing cacophony of exhaust pipe pops and crackles on the overrun; not something obviously associated with a school-run SUV.
Indeed, as a family friendly SUV with the heart of a hot hatch, the new BMW X3 M40i may be the most unapologetically brash contender in this segment. But it is afforded this attitude by the fact that the vehicle it’s based on appears to be very well sorted in terms of overall balance, poise and precision. While its bolder styling, compared with the likes of, say, the forthcoming Volvo XC60, will arguably narrow its broad appeal, based on first impressions the new BMW X3, with its sharp new interior packaging and the kind of built-in dynamics that has won BMW so many fans to date, it looks destined to hit the ground running in its latest tussle for segment dominance.
FAST FACTS
Model: BMW X3 M40i
Price: R1 000 676
Engine: 6 cylinder, inline, turbocharged
Power: 265 kW
Torque: 500 N.m
0-100 km/h: 4,8 secs
Top Speed: 250 km/h (limited)
Fuel Consumption: 8,9 L/100 km
CO2: 204 g/km
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan: 5 year/100 000 km
http://www.carmag.co.za/driving_impression/driven-bmw-x3-m40i/
Not always a fan of car designer speak, especially when delving into topics such as “sculpted crease lines” and “emotive surfacing”, I really like head designer, Calvin Luk’s summed-up description of his latest creation, the all-new BMW X3. Standing alongside him at the international launch of the third-generation of one of the most important models in BMW’s current portfolio, Australian Luk says he views the new (G01) X3 as a rugby player dressed in a fitted suit. And, while it helps that it’s the sportiest version of the new range, the X3 M40i, that we’re staring at at the time, I do tend to agree with his observation.
Within what is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested segment battles of recent times, the new BMW X3 is, alongside the likes of the Jaguar F-Pace, setting its stall out to be one of the most dynamic-looking options available. Built on BMW’s new larger but lighter CLAR platform, the third-generation X3 is only marginally longer and wider (though lower) than the model it replaces, yet viewed in the metal you immediately get the sense that the brief was to make the vehicle look bolder and more athletic that before. As such, the company’s signature grille is that much more pronounced, the roof line is that much more swept and the bonnet creases are that much more appreciable. In the first ever M Performance X3, it’s a package granted even more presence by bespoke bumper treatments (front and rear), neat Cerium Grey highlighting (including side mirrors), tailpipe dimension upgrade and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Serving as a constant reminder of that bold exterior styling, the aforementioned bonnet creases (similar to those on the larger X5) are a prominent sight from behind the steering wheel of the new X3. While the M40i’s cabin is lifted with appropriate touches such as sports seats and chrome accenting, like the exterior package, the new X3’s cabin as a whole feels far more svelte and leaner in its application than before. Certainly the adoption of a new platform (and, accordingly, a 50 mm longer wheelbase) has freed up valuable interior space, but you do also get the sense of a greater emphasis placed on ergonomics in the new car. More sculpted than in the previous model, the fact that the centre console is fashioned to face the driver’s seat is immediately obvious. A welcome inclusion in the new interior package is the presence of a more front-and-centre (10,2-inch) infotainment display that now offers touchscreen (yes, as well as gesture control) functionality. To this end, build quality and the use of materials also appears to have been a key focus of attention when designing the new car – a standard that the workforce at Rosslyn will be looking forward to replicating once production of the new X3 begins in South Africa in 2018.
As aggressive as the new X3 M40i looks, its exhaust note (even in default mode) is arranged to do those looks justice. Powered by a (B58) turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, the M40i fires to life with all the verve and purpose of a modern hyper-hatch. And it’s a feeling that never really leaves. Boasting 265 kW and a sturdy 500 N.m from just 1 400 r/min, the newest member of the M Performance portfolio always feels tightly wound up and ready for action. It’s this fact that perhaps most distinguishes the fastest X3 to date from the likes of the new Audi SQ5, the Ingolstadt model offering a somewhat more convincing dual personality.
That said, I have a feeling the SQ5 would have a tough time keeping pace with the X3 M40i over a mountain pass, such is the dynamic ability (highlighted by excellent body control and hot hatch-like turn-in precision) offered by the BMW. While an adaptive suspension setup is optional, the M40i comes standard with M Sport brakes and suspension arrangements as well as an xDrive all-wheel-drive setup tuned for a more pronounced rearwards bias. Tune all the systems, including the excellent eight-speed automatic transmission, to Sport mode and a bonus feature is a smile-inducing cacophony of exhaust pipe pops and crackles on the overrun; not something obviously associated with a school-run SUV.
Indeed, as a family friendly SUV with the heart of a hot hatch, the new BMW X3 M40i may be the most unapologetically brash contender in this segment. But it is afforded this attitude by the fact that the vehicle it’s based on appears to be very well sorted in terms of overall balance, poise and precision. While its bolder styling, compared with the likes of, say, the forthcoming Volvo XC60, will arguably narrow its broad appeal, based on first impressions the new BMW X3, with its sharp new interior packaging and the kind of built-in dynamics that has won BMW so many fans to date, it looks destined to hit the ground running in its latest tussle for segment dominance.
FAST FACTS
Model: BMW X3 M40i
Price: R1 000 676
Engine: 6 cylinder, inline, turbocharged
Power: 265 kW
Torque: 500 N.m
0-100 km/h: 4,8 secs
Top Speed: 250 km/h (limited)
Fuel Consumption: 8,9 L/100 km
CO2: 204 g/km
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan: 5 year/100 000 km
http://www.carmag.co.za/driving_impression/driven-bmw-x3-m40i/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW X3 30d xDrive 2017 review
Should I buy one?
The car beneath all this increasingly common technology is a good one. It carries its SUV height and mass with aplomb, it provides fine-mannered dynamics that a keen driver will find reasonably enjoyable (the keen will favour the rapid and fleet-footed M40i, however) and its interior is that well crafted that it’s a pleasure to sit in and touch. There’s plenty of scope for configuring it to suit your favoured materials and palette, too.
This X3 also bears the hallmarks of the car’s advance towards autonomy, if without breaking any new ground. More useful for many will be its heightened connectivity potential. Some will probably prefer to spend on that, and various other options, rather than choosing the 30d over the less potent but still brisk 20d. The 30d’s extra cylinders and extra thrust add refinement and go for no more than a small impact on economy. Indulgent diesels, however, could be becoming a thing of the past.
BMW X3 xDrive 30d SE
Where Lisbon, Portugal; On sale November; Price £44,380; Engine 6 cyls, 2993cc, turbocharged diesel; Power 261bhp at 4000rpm; Torque 457lb ft at 2000-2500rpm; Gearbox 8-spd automatic; Kerbweight 1895kg; Top speed 149mph; 0-62mph 5.8sec; Fuel economy 49.6mpg; CO2 rating 149g/km; Rivals Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/x3/first-drives/bmw-x3-30d-xdrive-2017-review
Should I buy one?
The car beneath all this increasingly common technology is a good one. It carries its SUV height and mass with aplomb, it provides fine-mannered dynamics that a keen driver will find reasonably enjoyable (the keen will favour the rapid and fleet-footed M40i, however) and its interior is that well crafted that it’s a pleasure to sit in and touch. There’s plenty of scope for configuring it to suit your favoured materials and palette, too.
This X3 also bears the hallmarks of the car’s advance towards autonomy, if without breaking any new ground. More useful for many will be its heightened connectivity potential. Some will probably prefer to spend on that, and various other options, rather than choosing the 30d over the less potent but still brisk 20d. The 30d’s extra cylinders and extra thrust add refinement and go for no more than a small impact on economy. Indulgent diesels, however, could be becoming a thing of the past.
BMW X3 xDrive 30d SE
Where Lisbon, Portugal; On sale November; Price £44,380; Engine 6 cyls, 2993cc, turbocharged diesel; Power 261bhp at 4000rpm; Torque 457lb ft at 2000-2500rpm; Gearbox 8-spd automatic; Kerbweight 1895kg; Top speed 149mph; 0-62mph 5.8sec; Fuel economy 49.6mpg; CO2 rating 149g/km; Rivals Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/x3/first-drives/bmw-x3-30d-xdrive-2017-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
We drive BMW's all-new, SA-bound X3
BMW has launched a butched-up and teched-up new generation X3 in its bid to stay ahead in the midsized SUV game.
Or SAV, as BMW insists on calling its Sports Activity Vehicle, which arrives in South Africa next month. And it’s not wrong with that moniker, because the third-generation X3 has been lightened by up to 55kg and is a wieldy thing to drive, with slick handling for a high-riding adventure vehicle.
The twisty roads of southern Portugal, where the X3’s international media launch was held last week, revealed an eager performer with BMW-typical steering and handling characteristics, 50:50 front to rear weight distribution, and relatively minor body roll. This car belongs to a sportier breed of modern adventure vehicles, especially the M Performance M40i version we drove in Portugal which sets the pulse racing with its power and M Sport suspension.
This turbocharged straight-six petrol 3-litre (not a 4-litre as the badge implies) lays down a spirited 265kW and 500Nm. That’s a massive 40kW and 100Nm hike over the old X3 flagship, and makes the new M40i good for a 250km/h top speed and sea-level 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.8 seconds, says BMW. It’s a gem of an engine with a responsive nature and gratifyingly gruff note from the sports exhaust. And, if the factory figures are to be believed, it will sip just 8.4 litres per 100km.
The all-new X3 will also be available in 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre turbodiesel versions when it’s launched here, respectively mustering outputs of 140kW/400Nm and a burly 195kW/620Nm and fuel figures of 5.4 and 6.0 litres/100km. All versions get an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The standard Driving Experience Control switch lets the driver switch between economy, comfort or sports modes. Optionally, customers can order Dynamic Damper Control which adjusts the suspension to the road surface and driving situation.
The third-generation X3 has also bulked up in its styling, and although the length stays much the same, it grows a little wider and gets a larger kidney grille to add some visual snarl. It’s now more like a shrunken X5 than a stretched X1 in terms of its road presence. The rear also delivers a bolder visual punch if you opt for the full-LED tail lights with their three-dimensional look.
On the technology front the third generation X3 boasts updated semi-automated driving features including lane keeping assist, self steering, and active cruise control. The infotainment’s been upgraded with a larger display and the ability to control it via voice, touchscreen, and also gesture control for features like the audio volume and answering calls.
Also new is the optional BMW Display Key that made its debut in the 7 Series. With a built-in screen, this device shows a variety of status information on the car and serves as the control unit for the optional auxiliary heating, for example.
The cabin gets a more upmarket feel with improved fit and finish, and the window buttons and other controls are given a classier touch with an optional electroplated accents package.
Access to the roomy 550 litre boot is gained through an automatic tailgate, and the rear seats can be flipped down remotely from the load compartment to expand it to 1 600 litres.
Overseas versions of the X3 will be offered in rear- or all-wheel drive, but locally all models will have drive to both axles via the xDrive system. The X3’s not a hardcore offroader but the all-wheel drive and raised 204mm ground clearance do give it ability beyond mere climbing of shopping mall pavements. On a mild offroad course at the Lisbon launch, the X3 had enough ride height to avoid scraping its belly on fairly substantial bumps. It was also able to keep moving forward in axle-twisting situations where two diagonally opposite wheels were off the ground, thanks to the intelligent xDrive system which directs torque to the wheels with the most grip.
Initially the X3s to be launched here will be built in BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the USA but from April next year they will be sourced from BMW South Africa’s Rosslyn factory, where X3 production has replaced the 3 Series. Customers can choose from four model lines - Standard, xLine, Luxury Line and M Sport.
The new X3 will be on display at this weekend’s BMW M Festival at Kyalami, with tickets priced from R150. For more information visit the www.bmwmfestival.co.za website.
PRICES (standard models)
X3 xDrive20d - R687 506
X3 xDrive30i - R745 956
X3 xDrive30d - R873 088
X3 M40i - R1 000 676
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/we-drive-bmws-all-new-sa-bound-x3-11621663
BMW has launched a butched-up and teched-up new generation X3 in its bid to stay ahead in the midsized SUV game.
Or SAV, as BMW insists on calling its Sports Activity Vehicle, which arrives in South Africa next month. And it’s not wrong with that moniker, because the third-generation X3 has been lightened by up to 55kg and is a wieldy thing to drive, with slick handling for a high-riding adventure vehicle.
The twisty roads of southern Portugal, where the X3’s international media launch was held last week, revealed an eager performer with BMW-typical steering and handling characteristics, 50:50 front to rear weight distribution, and relatively minor body roll. This car belongs to a sportier breed of modern adventure vehicles, especially the M Performance M40i version we drove in Portugal which sets the pulse racing with its power and M Sport suspension.
This turbocharged straight-six petrol 3-litre (not a 4-litre as the badge implies) lays down a spirited 265kW and 500Nm. That’s a massive 40kW and 100Nm hike over the old X3 flagship, and makes the new M40i good for a 250km/h top speed and sea-level 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.8 seconds, says BMW. It’s a gem of an engine with a responsive nature and gratifyingly gruff note from the sports exhaust. And, if the factory figures are to be believed, it will sip just 8.4 litres per 100km.
The all-new X3 will also be available in 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre turbodiesel versions when it’s launched here, respectively mustering outputs of 140kW/400Nm and a burly 195kW/620Nm and fuel figures of 5.4 and 6.0 litres/100km. All versions get an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The standard Driving Experience Control switch lets the driver switch between economy, comfort or sports modes. Optionally, customers can order Dynamic Damper Control which adjusts the suspension to the road surface and driving situation.
The third-generation X3 has also bulked up in its styling, and although the length stays much the same, it grows a little wider and gets a larger kidney grille to add some visual snarl. It’s now more like a shrunken X5 than a stretched X1 in terms of its road presence. The rear also delivers a bolder visual punch if you opt for the full-LED tail lights with their three-dimensional look.
On the technology front the third generation X3 boasts updated semi-automated driving features including lane keeping assist, self steering, and active cruise control. The infotainment’s been upgraded with a larger display and the ability to control it via voice, touchscreen, and also gesture control for features like the audio volume and answering calls.
Also new is the optional BMW Display Key that made its debut in the 7 Series. With a built-in screen, this device shows a variety of status information on the car and serves as the control unit for the optional auxiliary heating, for example.
The cabin gets a more upmarket feel with improved fit and finish, and the window buttons and other controls are given a classier touch with an optional electroplated accents package.
Access to the roomy 550 litre boot is gained through an automatic tailgate, and the rear seats can be flipped down remotely from the load compartment to expand it to 1 600 litres.
Overseas versions of the X3 will be offered in rear- or all-wheel drive, but locally all models will have drive to both axles via the xDrive system. The X3’s not a hardcore offroader but the all-wheel drive and raised 204mm ground clearance do give it ability beyond mere climbing of shopping mall pavements. On a mild offroad course at the Lisbon launch, the X3 had enough ride height to avoid scraping its belly on fairly substantial bumps. It was also able to keep moving forward in axle-twisting situations where two diagonally opposite wheels were off the ground, thanks to the intelligent xDrive system which directs torque to the wheels with the most grip.
Initially the X3s to be launched here will be built in BMW’s Spartanburg plant in the USA but from April next year they will be sourced from BMW South Africa’s Rosslyn factory, where X3 production has replaced the 3 Series. Customers can choose from four model lines - Standard, xLine, Luxury Line and M Sport.
The new X3 will be on display at this weekend’s BMW M Festival at Kyalami, with tickets priced from R150. For more information visit the www.bmwmfestival.co.za website.
PRICES (standard models)
X3 xDrive20d - R687 506
X3 xDrive30i - R745 956
X3 xDrive30d - R873 088
X3 M40i - R1 000 676
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/we-drive-bmws-all-new-sa-bound-x3-11621663
FiestaST
Honorary Master
CarsGuide review
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[video=youtube_share;rsbaQEciq8U]https://youtu.be/rsbaQEciq8U[/video]