BMW unveils spacious new x3: More size, same premium appeal

The new BMW X3 has just been unveiled and aligns with the trends started in earlier models. First impression: it has grown. The lack of revolution is very good news for customers.

The new generation has grown by a few more centimetres. While the wheelbase remained unchanged, the extended overhangs mean the X3 is now 475 cm (longer than the first X5!). To maintain proportions, the roofline has been lowered by 3 cm, and the body has been widened by 3 cm. The X3 seems to have abandoned being a classic SUV, becoming more like an extended station wagon scaled to 133%.

The hidden door handles and rounded shapes (with the plastic wideners removed on the rear fenders) have helped achieve an air resistance coefficient of Cx=0.27. The grille, which can be illuminated, houses shutters and radars required for the cruise control to function.

The interior feels more spacious. In front of the driver, two screens measure 31 cm and 38 cm, respectively. Based on the experience with these in other models, they do not overwhelm during the drive — you may not even notice them while using the fantastic heads-up display on the windshield. Much space has been allocated for the charger (similar to the X2), and the central tunnel control panel will always have a black, easy-to-scratch plastic texture.

Here is a word about the materials you see in the photos. This is one of the first units to be produced, and some elements will be changed. For instance, matte plastic will appear on the air vent controls. While I am a big fan of textile upholstery and such finishes, I have reservations about the look of the door-side panels or the steering wheel. The door pockets will not even be covered with material to muffle the rattling of small items. It's not very premium.

There is no lack of space in the back, although I get the impression that the seats are too low. The trunk now has 566 litres of space, with a regular shape, although the loading threshold is high, and only small items can be stowed under its floor. Unless we are talking about the plug-in version, where the space is occupied by cells, the floor is "broken" in the middle and slopes towards the tailgate.

The plug-in is based on a 2-litre, four-cylinder engine generating 190 horsepower, and the entire system has around 300 horsepower. It can drive emissions-free for up to 85 km, although the manufacturer has not shared the exact specifications of the cells. Plug-ins' driving ranges have grown recently.

The lion's share of sales will be taken by "regular" (though equipped with mild-hybrid) four-cylinder engines. The gasoline engine generates 190 horsepower, and the diesel — 209 horsepower. Power is transmitted to all four wheels. The highlight is the M50 xDrive version, which means six cylinders, 381 horsepower, and 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. A similarly large diesel will also appear next year. As will the fully electric version. A "full-fledged" M version is not being considered for now, as I learned from brand representatives.

The prices of the new BMW X3 have not yet been revealed, but it can be said with high certainty that it will be more expensive than its predecessor.