Similar to the new Mini, BMW is also differentiating between internal combustion engine models and the electric version in the X3. The German manufacturer announced today the launch of the fourth generation of its mid-size crossover, which competes with the Audi Q5, is larger than the X1, and smaller than the X5. However, it is heavily based on the outgoing model. A completely new electric model, which will be the first in the manufacturer's new series, the Neue Klasse, with a new platform and a promise of an especially long driving range, will be launched only in 2025.
The exterior design reveals that this is a version of the current model, with the main change being the front grille, following BMW's recent criticism of its exaggerated front designs. With a length of 4.75 meters, a width of 1.92 meters, a height of 1.66 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.86 meters, the new generation is almost identical to the current one. The trunk volume has increased by 20 liters, to 570 liters in the gasoline and diesel models – yes, BMW is not abandoning this engine – and 460 liters in the plug-in hybrid.
The driver's environment has received a more comprehensive update with components from the 5 Series, including a 14.9-inch multimedia screen and a 14.9-inch instrument panel, and other features we've already seen in BMWs, such as an augmented reality-based head-up display, over-the-air updates, a remote operation app for those who want to turn on the air conditioner before getting into the car, and the latest trend: voice control integrated with artificial intelligence.
The European lineup includes four engine versions, all updates of the current power units, and all with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
20: 2,000 cc turbo gasoline engine with a mild hybrid unit, 190 hp, 7.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, 215 km/h top speed, and combined fuel consumption of 13.5 km/l.
20D: 2,000 cc turbo diesel engine with a mild hybrid unit, 197 hp, 7.7 seconds, 215 km/h, and 16.5 km/l.
M50: 3,000 cc turbo gasoline engine, 6 cylinders, 381 hp, 4.6 seconds, 250 km/h, 12.5 km/l, also featuring a lowered chassis and sporty suspension tuning.
e30: the plug-in hybrid model, which has undergone the most significant change thanks to an increase in battery capacity from 11 to 19.7 kWh. The result: a driving range of about 85 km, from a power unit producing a combined 299 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 in 6.2 seconds, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 100 km/l, and 13 km/l when the battery is not charged.
The new model will arrive in Israel at the beginning of 2025. The price of the current model starts at NIS 385,000.