What It Is:
Not the least bit interested in any of its models being considered “utility vehicles,” BMW decided to call its first venture into the SUV segment, the midsize 2000 X5, a “Sport Activity Vehicle” (SAV). In 2004, the German automaker did a follow-up act with its all-new X3, a compact SAV with seating for five. Based on the 3 Series platform, the X3 shared engines and powertrains with the popular sport sedan. In contrast to its sedan sibling, the X3 offered both utility (sorry, the word slipped in) and a commanding driving position. The X3 was expensive, but a big hit with consumers who liked its sporty handling even though the trade-off was a harsh ride.
BMW is replacing the aged first-generation X3 (at the end of a long seven-year product cycle) with an all-new model for 2011. The redesigned SAV is taller, longer, and wider than the outgoing model. Overall, the X3 features rather mild styling changes — so as not to upset loyalists. Under the hood are BMW’s familiar inline-6 engines, and a new turbocharged model that will surely add some needed zing. That will be helpful, as what was once a rather barren segment is now quite crowded. The new BMW X3 will jump into the ring to compete against the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, Land Rover LR2 and Infiniti EX, among others.
What’s New for the 2011 BMW X3:
- A Complete Redesign: The 2011 BMW X3 is an all-new second-generation model, with more amenities, luxury equipment, and safety features than ever before.
- New Suspension: Gone are the MacPherson struts in the front and rear, often cursed for their poor ride. In their place are a new double-joint spring-strut suspension at the front and a multi-link rear suspension. BMW is also offering Electronic Damping Control, a first for the X3, for further driver refinement.
- Turbocharged Six-Cylinder Power: In addition to the standard 3.0-liter inline-6, rated at 240 horsepower, BMW will offer its X3 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 cranking out 300 horsepower. That should be more than enough power to leave all other soccer moms at the stoplight.
- Eight-speed Transmission: Following on the heels of the 7 Series and 5 Series, the X3 will receive the automaker’s new soft-shifting (and more fuel efficient) 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Made in the USA: The first-generation X3 was manufactured in Europe (Austria, actually), and shipped to our shores. Not anymore. The 2011 BMW X3 will be assembled in Spartanburg, South Carolina (alongside the X5 and X6), and then distributed worldwide.
The Vehix View:
Aside from its rather ho-hum looks and tooth-jarring ride, the first-generation X3 was a pretty good compact sport utility vehicle (sorry, we said it again). Much more family-friendly than the 3 Series sedan, and even the wagon, the X3 offered few compromises in the handling department. Freshly styled, with new suspension and power underfoot (not to mention even more amenities within the cabin), BMW seems to have polished away most of its predecessor's rough edges with the all-new 2011 X3.