Another day, another controversial new BMW. This time its not only about what Chris Bangles done to the looks, either. Much of the debate in the motoring media has centred on the positioning of the BMW X3 . Here is another BMW SUV with limited off-road ability, and which sits rather close to its bigger brother, the older X5, in terms of both size and price. So they say. Will BMW not be cannibalising itself? Its a valid question but one that doesnt necessarily apply to all BMW X3 models. Take the derivative featured in this review as a case in point. There is no 2,5-litre manual-transmission X5. There is also no X5 near this price point. Suddenly the initially awkward-looking BMW X3 starts to look quite appealing, doesnt it?
Size matters
The BMW X3 compact SUV positioning is a bit misleading. In the metal it is quite an imposing vehicle, measuring 4 565 mm in length and standing 1 675 mm tall. The ground clearance is a not-insignificant 200 mm. On this sizeable canvas BMWs design team has applied a much gentler form of the companys much-talked-about flame surfacing and the result is quite a crisp-looking vehicle. Also worth noting are the black plastic bumpers and wheelarch linings, all hinting at the possibility of regular rough-road use.
Its inside where the generous exterior dimensions play heavily in the X3s favour this vehicle is very spacious. Theres lots of head-, leg- and shoulder-room all round, even for rear passengers. Due to the generous glass area provided by the windows, the cabin is light and airy, and the feeling of spaciousness enhanced. The boot is of a very practical shape (deep and square) and when the rear seats are tumbled forwards, the loading space is long enough to accommodate some very unexpectedly big objects.
Premium feel for BMW X3
In typically modern BMW fashion, the X3s facia design initially appears a trifle stark. The instrumentation panel almost looks too small, and houses to very neat, but basic-looking dials. The centre section of the facia displays a similar no-nonsense approach to ergonomics. The buttons (of which there are a few) are neatly marked and logically placed. Theres no sign of BMWs controversial iDrive control system here. But perhaps BMW couldve added a few dashes of contrasting trim (chrome surrounds for the vents, for example), to brighten things up a little. As it stands the cabin is practical, seemingly well-built and comfortable, but just lacking a bit in the visual delight department.
What its certainly not lacking is a good driving position. BMW is a master in this, and the X3 offers generous rake and reach adjustment for the steering wheel as well as height-adjustment (manual) for the drivers seat. Standard equipment on this model is acceptable, but no better than that. You get electric windows and mirrors, remote audio controls, radio/CD player, air-conditioning and no fewer than six airbags.
What lies beneath
While the standard interior specification is a bit meagre, BMW has not skimped on technology. The BMW X3 uses the companys new xDrive system which monitors a number of parameters to always (and in near real-time) ensure that traction is maintained. It works in conjunction with a number of other clever systems, including hill-descent control, which limits speeds down steep declines to between 6 and 25 km/h. Combine xDrive with BMWs usual array of stability control and other electronic systems, and the X3 feels near unflappable on the road and, to some extent, off it. Make no mistake, the BMW X3 isnt an off-roader and lacks low-range, but its good enough for most light excursions off the beaten track. BMW says the system has been optimised for use in mud and snow.
On tar the BMW X3 is easily a class leader, boasting levels of body control and grip that most sedans can aspire to. xDrive plays a big role here, as it can basically manage both over- and understeer out of the system by sending torque to the axle with the most traction. Of course, this being a BMW, the basic suspension is also not to be sneezed at, and its worth noting that these electronic systems function quietly in the background. Most drivers will never know about the trickery going on underneath.
This BMW X3 is powered by a 2,5-litre straight-six petrol unit that delivers 141 kW and 245 Nm of torque. With a mass of over 1,6 tonnes, the X3 is certainly not a lightweight, so those power figures look fairly worrying. In reality, though, the BMW X3 2,5i feels lively to drive around town and retains impressive overtaking urge on the highway. But it doesnt feel like a vehicle that can do the 0-100 km/h sprint in 9,6 seconds, as BMW claims. It is also quite thirsty. Driven normally on a daily basis (mix of town, highway and B-road) should see it return a figure of around 13 litres/100 km. All that said, the BMW X3 2,5i is a pleasure to drive, with nicely weighted steering, a slick six-speed manual transmission and excellent ride/handling.
BMW X3 – Verdict
As BMW has proven to the critics countless times the proof is always in the pudding. In the case of the BMW X3 2,5i, the pudding tastes rather good. At the price it is an excellent entry into the BMW SUV range and one which should prove very popular in the local market. Expect rival brands to react very quickly, as the X3 is poised to win many new fans for BMW.
We like:
- Premium appeal
- Classy looks
- Ride/handling
- Build quality
- Interior space
We dont like:
- Facia looks a bit cheap in places
- Basic standard specification
- Quite thirsty
Fast facts
Engine: 2,5-litre, straight-six, petrol
Power: 141 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 245 Nm @ 3 500 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: 213 km/h
0-100 km/h: 9,6 seconds
Fuel economy: 12,9 litres/100 km
Source: www.um.co.za
Also consider:
- Volvo XC70 2,5T: More of a station wagon in hiking boots than an SUV, but theyre similarly capable. The Volvo has a bit more power as well as significantly more space. Of course, the Volvo badge cant match the BMW roundel, but it does possess significant charm and capability.
- Subaru Forester 2,5 XT: A fantastically entertaining vehicle but ultimately lacks the BMWs polish and desirability. The Forester does, however, feature low range and packs a serious performance punch. Heavy on fuel, though
- Land Rover Freelander V6 HSE Automatic: There isnt a manual Freelander V6, but nevertheless this model could be worth considering as it is similarly sized to the BMW X3, features all-wheel dive and boasts a measure of badge appeal. Very thirsty.
