On sale in its current form since the 2011 vintage, the second generation of the X3 was ripe for a redesign, and the German manufacturer recently revealed all the details of the third generation that will be available in Canada before the end of the year. Well, almost all the details.
Two versions of the X3 will be available in 2018. The X3 xDrive30i is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 248 horsepower and a torque of 258 lb-ft. It will replace the current xDrive28i variant and, according to BMW Canada, accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.3 seconds.
Both models are also equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and, of course, an all-wheel drive system, although the power distribution of the M40i further favors the rear wheels. The ground clearance remains unchanged at 203 millimeters, while the manufacturer cites an ability to cross streams up to a maximum height of 500 mm.
The X3 M40i benefits from a firmer M Sport suspension, while an adaptive M Sport suspension is available as an option. It also gets M Sport brakes with blue-painted calipers and variable-assist sport steering. The latter is also available as an option on the X3 xDrive30i, as well as a dynamic variable damping system, configurable by the driver.
Other enhancements include optional front ventilated seats, a longer panoramic roof, a three-zone automatic climate control, and individually adjustable rear seatbacks. The cargo space is unchanged at 550 liters with the backrests in place, and at 1,600 when they are folded down. The BMW X3 2018 has a trailer hitch installed directly at the factory, with a capacity of 2,000 kilograms (4,400 lb) when the trailer is equipped with brakes.
Prices have not yet been announced, but the new X3 is expected to arrive at BMW dealerships in November 2017.