BMW X3 has a modern and youthful design
Following the success of the BMW X5, a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the German-based company will launch a smaller version, the X3. The car has a modern design with a touch of youthful freshness.
The exterior of the X3 is quite similar to that of its larger brother but slightly different in external dimensions. The X3 is 4,565 millimeters in length, 102mm shorter than the X5.
The X3 still has the familiar curves of the X5, with its classic, "Hofmeister kick" in the rear side windows, but is slightly different, with newly designed double-kidney grille as well as front and rear lights.
Created in three variants -- X3 3.0i, X3 2.5i and X3 3.0d -- the BMW provides many choices for potential customers.
The highlight of the X3 is definitely its all-new intelligent xDrive, all-wheel-drive system, which provides infinite and fully variable distribution of drive forces between the front and rear axles.
The system will immediately recognize any need for change in power distribution and respond quickly to ensure that the wheels do not lose their grip.
The xDrive offers a higher standard of agility, driving pleasure and safety on the road. On slippery or tough terrain, it ensures better grip and traction.
The X3 3.0i variant develops a maximum output of 231 horsepower and a top speed of 224 kilometers per hour (kph) with its optional high-speed sports package.
The six-cylinder engine can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 7.8 seconds and ensures fuel economy with consumption of 11.4 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.
As for the X3 2.5i, the engine can develop a maximum output of 192 horsepower.
The diesel version has a maximum power output of 204 horsepower and can reach a top speed at 218 kph. Acceleration is slightly different in the 3.0i diesel version, which can go from 0 to 100 kph in 7.9 seconds. This variant promises good fuel economy too, with consumption of 8.4 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers.
Just like its bigger brother, the X3 offers the comfort of a sedan despite its function as an SAV and passengers can also enjoy a modern and spacious interior.
Additional attributes of the car are the panoramic roof and Adaptive Headlights.
The two-piece panoramic roof extends throughout almost the entire roof area, with a glass surface measuring no less than 0.65 square meter.
Adaptive Headlights improve driver visibility in the dark through the use of swiveling headlight units adjusting to the steering angle.
With the BMW AG plans to market the X3 in Europe and North America from early 2004; it is unsure when the vehicle will be available in the Indonesian market.
PT BMW Indonesia spokeswoman Helena Abidin said that X3 was among the carmaker's latest products, including the BMW 645 Ci, due to enter the local market to strengthen its position and brand awareness.
"So far we can't say when the X3 will enter the market and how much it will cost. We need to make technical adjustments for local conditions, including road surface, climate and fuel quality," she said.
"However, we promise to introduce the product as soon as possible."
Such a promise will be eagerly awaited by BMW maniacs.
-- Primastuti Handayani