BMW announces X3 Sports Activity Vehicle in Canada

BMW Canada has announced that the extremely popular and successful X3 Sports Activity Vehicle will arrive in retailer showrooms in the fall of 2006 as a 2007 model with new drivetrains, significant exterior styling enhancements and premium interior refinements.

The 2007 BMW X3 will be offered in two variants, both powered by BMW’s award-winning inline six-cylinder magnesium/aluminum composite engine with Valvetronic technology.

The X3 3.0i, succeeding the current X3 2.5, will boast 215 horsepower @ 6250 rpm and 185 ft-lb of torque @ 2750 rpm and be capable of 0-100 km/h in 8.5/8.9 seconds (man/auto) while the X3 3.0si, replacing the current X3 3.0i, will generate a robust 260 horsepower@6600 rpm accompanied by 225 ft-lb of torque @ 2750 rpm and sprint from 0-100 km/h in only 7.3/7.6 seconds (man/auto). With a weight of only 165 kilograms, the lightweight six-cylinder engines are not only more powerful and fuel efficient than their predecessors, but their light weight contributes to the optimization of axle-load distribution and, consequently, to the outstanding agility and driving dynamics of the BMW X3.

Both powerplants are mated to standard six-speed manual transmission. A new six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission will be offered as a no-cost option in place of the previous 5-speed unit. With new converter technology and optimized software, the new automatic transmission features reduced shift times and improved response dynamics, contributing to improved acceleration.

The new X3 also integrates the latest generation xDrive Intelligent All Wheel Drive system with Integrated Chassis Management technology, providing infinitely variable power distribution to all four wheels via a rigid main shaft to the rear axle and a multi-plate clutch that directs the torque to the front axle via an intermediate shaft.

Maintaining a power distribution ratio of 40:60 between the front and the rear wheels during normal driving, the Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC), working seamlessly in conjunction with xDrive via a transfer box and electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, ensures that power is distributed variably to optimize traction and dynamic control in adverse conditions.

The latest generation DSC system also incorporates features that further enhance safety and stability:
– Brake fade compensation
– Brake standby to improve emergency applications
– Hill start assist to prevent roll-back when starting on an incline
– Brake drying to maintain stopping power during inclement conditions

The 2007 BMW X3 also becomes the first BMW SAV to integrate Dynamic Traction Control into the DSC system. At the touch of a button, the DTC allows for a higher wheel slip threshold to accommodate, for example, starting off in loose snow conditions.

Styling enhancements inside and out distinguish the 2007 BMW X3 from its predecessor.

The front styling of the new X3 has been enhanced with a new front bumper, with an attractive split combination of body color a matte black finish, that frames a new, slightly larger twin-kidney grill. The cleaner headlight assembly no longer includes the DOT amber reflector, which moves to the fender. The Xenon headlights now include the corona light rings (currently optional on the X3 3.0i). The headlight washers, which are included with the Activity Package, now retract flush into the bumper. The new rear bumper is highlighted with chrome exhaust tips. The new taillight cluster includes horizontal LED light conductors. Adaptive Brake Lights enable the distinctive new taillights to illuminate along with, and at the same intensity as the brake lights in an emergency stop to ensure that any drivers following behind are well alerted. Newly styled 17-inch wheels are standard, with 18-inch wheels available as a stand-alone option on both models.

The more highly refined interior is immediately apparent. The new dashboard material has a more luxurious grain and feature either wood trim on the X3 3.0si or Titanium Matte trim on the X3 3.0i to match the center console and door pulls. The door panels have been enhanced with solid door pockets and additional upholstery above the armrests. When leather upholstery is ordered, the upholstery on the door panels includes stitching for an added premium luxury detail. The standard multi-function steering wheel is a new three-spoke design. Audiophiles will appreciate the new standard auxiliary input jack located on the back of the center console.

Enhancements to the 2007 BMW X3 also extends to the option packages, with the popular Premium Package now including a Heated Steering Wheel on both models. A new Comfort Package for the X3 3.0si adds 16-way Comfort Seats, Heated Rear Seats, Comfort Seats, Park Distance Control, and Universal Garage Door Opener. The X3 3.0si can now also be ordered with new optional 18″ Double Spoke Alloy Wheels.

Full information on vehicle pricing and specifications will be released closer to market launch this fall.