A favourite of the local luxury medium-size SUV market, the BMW X3 now has the latest BMW X3 Diesel available for 2017. Luxury SUV owners could be reputed to be a more arrogant class of drivers, but we don’t all have to be obnoxious to be a luxury SUV owner. There is loads to like about the new X3 Diesel; from AWD off-road traction to refined handling and performance, the new X3 Diesel definitely puts its best foot forward.
It seems that the X3 range has been around for ages now, and in fact it has. The front engine, AWD X3 was first produced back in 2003, so it’s seen some changes as the years have rolled on. Totally modern, however, the latest X3 diesel brims with some very fine technology that keeps it at the forefront of rivals Audi Q3, Audi Q5, buyers and designers minds.
Outside the exterior has undergone some beauty treatments to flash it up a bit more. There are new DRL LED headlamps that are narrower and sleeker looking, the kidney grille is big and bold, while the rear has had a butt tuck with sleeker tail lights and twin exhausts now enclosed in the outside corners of the bumper.
Jump inside, and the cabin has a higher-end feel about it with more chrome and silver trims. It is a very comfortable cabin, with the seats exceptionally nice. Lots of storage compartments are handy for housing all sorts of paraphernalia. There are a range of luxury levels you can choose from. The new BMW X3 Diesel comes with a standard entry level trim right through to the premium model with the lot. No longer available in beige, BMW X3 interior trims do, however, have a nice range of colour tones. BMW’s standard faux-leather SensaTec upholstery is nice, while the real leather package costs a bit more and feels superb. The M Sport package makes it look more belligerent with darkened trim and aero additions. All models come with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard; optional rims include the M Sport and X Line 19-inch alloys for looking even sportier.
Boot space is useful for carrying luggage and is right up there with the best in class. Seating is good, and though compact in the rear, the X3 offers good leg room and head room for passengers on the outside positions on the rear seats. Life’s a little bit cosier for middle sitting rear-seat passengers built like a prop forward.
On the road, the new BMW X3 diesel is the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class. This is what you want to hear – particularly as the X3 Diesel is enjoyable to drive, and though not and M-car has good handling dynamics for a compact SUV. The X3 is easy to drive and goes about its business with assertive aplomb – just the way most buyers will want. Adaptive dampers, driver modes, and loads of active safety features ensure that the car remains very controlled and comfortable even in the wet. Take the BMW X3 Diesel off-road, and the car performs really well, with plenty of traction in the mud and snow, and decent ground clearance. Of course, there is that great feeling of driving a car with a bit more of a stately ride height – and you’ve just got to love that.
Powered by a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, the BMW xDrive28d puts out a lengthy 380 Nm of torque and segment-topping fuel economy. Boasting a nice new eight-speed transmission, the automatic is a gem and is performance programmed in the M Sport package.
Features like keyless entry, power front-seat lumbar support, and satellite navigation with premium sound systems are for the premium X3 model. There is even wireless smartphone charging and Wi-Fi hotspot in-vehicle internet access which is really useful and modern – a feature I really like. Apple CarPlay compatibility is also available. A rear-view camera is standard, with a Driver Assistance Package, along with rear-obstacle detection an optional extra for some of the X3 versions. The ultimate Driver Assistance Plus package includes blind-spot detection and vehicle surround-view video, plus lane-departure and forward-collision warning. Crash testing has earned it a very credible 5-stars.
You should look at shortlisting a new BMW X3 Diesel if you’re after a nice looking, very nice driving medium SUV. The Diesel motor in the new X3 is a special motor that sets it apart in terms of being a frugal performer. These are well-designed and well-put together vehicles that should put a smile on your face.
The current BMW X3 Diesel models include the:
For any more information on the BMW X3 or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of BMW dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!