Revised BMW X3 announced

The most popular model in the BMW X3 range is to receive a boost following the introduction of a revised engine with EfficientDynamics technology. The new BMW X3 2.0d comes with a 1,995cc engine offering 177hp, up 27hp compared to the previous model, and 350Nm of torque, up 20Nm.

Enhanced engine output results in better performance figures for the model that accounts for 70 per cent of X3 sales in the UK. The X3 2.0d now records an 11 per cent improvement in fuel consumption attaining 43.5mpg on the combined cycle. The vehicle’s CO2 emissions also fall 10 per cent from 191g/km to 172g/km seeing it drop into Band E for Vehicle Excise Duty.

As is the case with all BMWs touched by EfficientDynamics technology, improvements in economy and emissions have not been at the expense of driving pleasure. A zero to 62mph time of 8.9 seconds compares to 10.2 seconds previously, while top speed has increased from 123mph to 128mph.

To complete the picture of X3 2.0d revisions, the model is now offered with the option of BMW’s Steptronic automatic transmission. The six-speed gearbox is available on both SE and M Sport variants of the X3 2.0d at a cost of £1,470. The introduction of an automatic gearbox to the model satisfies customer demand but has a limited impact on performance figures compared to a manual gearbox. An auto-equipped BMW X3 2.0d still maintains 42.2mpg on the combined cycle and posts a 178g/km emissions figure.

Other models in the BMW X3 range also receive EfficientDynamics technology and a consequential improvement in overall performance. The next two popular models in the range, the X3 3.0d and 3.0sd, both see fuel consumption improve by seven per cent and 11 per cent to 38.2mpg and 36.2mpg respectively on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions on both those models also fall by seven and 10 per cent. This results in the BMW X3 3.0sd joining the 2.5si in dropping a tier in Vehicle Excise Duty from Band G to Band F making for a £95 annual saving.