Today BMW shows off yet another new model- the 2015 X3. The X3 has adopted BMW’s new joined kidney grill and headlight aesthetic up front as well as many more upscale tweaks inside and out. The star of the show is not just the looks; BMW has gifted the US with new power train options including diesel and rear wheel drive only for the first time in the X3.

While the X3 was not looking too dated this update is welcomed and was surely needed to bring the X3 and soon to debut X4 closer in styling. Read on for the full release.

Featuring new powertrains and all-round enhancements for 2015.

BMW today announced the arrival of the enhanced, 2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle®. In 2003 BMW founded the mid-size SAV segment with the launch of the original BMW X3. Since
2003, the BMW X3 has been a paragon of sporty dynamics, premium ambience and robust agility – accumulating sales of more than one million units worldwide in the process. The
second-generation BMW X3 has made a compelling case for itself since its introduction in
2010, boasting the best interior and cargo measurements and the greatest versatility in its
class.

Now, the new BMW X3 is set to build on this leadership. A new offer of BMW Advanced
Diesel power in the X3 xDrive28d will enhance efficiency while further reducing emissions.
There will also be the first-time offer of the rear-wheel drive BMW X3 sDrive28i for the US
market, providing a great consumer entry point into the X3 family. The exterior and interior
design of the new BMW X3 receive stylistic revisions that add further depth to the vehicle’s
practicality, while updates to other details promise to impress the X3 customer.

The new BMW X3 will go on sale in spring 2014 as a 2015 model. Prices in the US will start
at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $39,325 for the X3 sDrive28i (new offer: rearwheel
drive). The X3 xDrive28i (with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive) will have an MSRP of $40,725, while the top-of-the-line X3 xDrive35i will have an MSRP of $45,825.

The all-new X3 xDrive28d with BMW Advanced Diesel technology will start at $42,825. All
prices include $925 Destination & Handling fee.

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Dynamic appearance and exclusive ambience.

The new BMW X3 cuts a visually more powerful figure with its new, modified twin-circular
headlights (LED headlights are optional), a more eye-catching kidney grille, new front and
rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators – all of which shine a
figurative spotlight on the signature BMW X model design features. A high level of perceived
quality also defines the interior of the new BMW X3. Chrome applications, a center console
with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel display, and new cup
holders with a sliding cover for the center console underline the vehicle’s premium
appearance. New exterior colors, upholstery designs, interior trim strips and light-alloy
wheels enable even more refined individualization.

The new xLine allows owners to lend greater emphasis still to the dynamic and robust SAV character of the BMW X3. And the
Smart Opener for the automatic tailgate further enhances the already impressive functionality of the BMW X3.

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New BMW Advanced Diesel engine and gasoline sDrive model.

The new BMW X3 is available from launch with a choice of one diesel and two gasoline
engines, with outputs ranging from 180 hp to 300 hp. The state-of-the-art engines with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology guarantee outstanding performance combined with
low fuel consumption.

The new X3 xDrive28d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel 4-cylinder
engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,750 rpm, and
will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The X3 xDrive28d will accelerate from
0 – 60 mph in just under eight seconds. BMW Advanced Diesel technology includes
Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new X3 a clean diesel.

Like its xDrive all-wheel drive counterpart, the new X3 sDrive28i features BMW’s brilliant
2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft
of torque. For customers with driving habits in which all-wheel drive might prove
superfluous, the X3 sDrive28i provides an excellent alternative. Zero to 60 mph may be
accomplished in a swift 6.2 seconds.

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BMW ConnectedDrive: driver assistance and infotainment.

The new BMW X3 advances the company’s commitment to the link-up of driver, vehicle
and outside world, an area in which BMW is an undisputed leader. Among the outstanding
new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the BMW X3 are the iDrive controller
with touchpad functionality (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant, the
full-color BMW Head-Up Display, and Active Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go,
including Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City
Collision Mitigation.

Design and functionality: Powerful appearance and maximum versatility.

The design language of the new BMW X3 underlines the leading role it has traditionally
occupied in the mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle segment. Taking its cue from its
predecessor, the new BMW X3 blends exclusivity and dynamic appeal and couples it with
impressive versatility. The new model is immediately identifiable as a member of the
successful BMW X family and cuts an even more impressive figure on the road. Its design
showcases an SAV that will carry out everyday tasks with consummate ease and do so
while delivering unbeatable driving pleasure.

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Striking presence.

Aside from its length, which has grown by a single centimeter, the new BMW X3 has the
same compact, usable dimensions of its successful predecessor. However, the new BMW
X3 comes with a host of exclusive details.

At the front end, for example, the newly designed twin circular headlights stand out immediately. They can also be ordered in full-LED specification as an option and, like the LED front fog lights, lend even greater expression to the premium profile of the BMW X3. The characteristic, more strikingly-presented BMW kidney grille has an even sharper visual impact with its new surround, and powerful, newly designed front and rear bumpers highlight the poised and assured appearance of the new BMW X3.

The LED turn signal indicators are now housed in the new exterior mirrors, while
four new exterior paint shades and four newly styled light-alloy wheel variants broaden the
scope for individualization.

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Exclusivity and a high level of perceived quality in the interior.

The new X3 leads the way in its segment in terms of both interior spaciousness and rear
load capacity (from 27.6 to 63.3 cu-ft). The interior is a compelling proposition with its
carefully selected, exquisite materials. Understated chrome applications, the center console
with automatic climate control system in a high-gloss black-panel look, and wood trim with chrome accents contribute further to the high-quality surroundings. Adding the final touches
to the premium ambience are new cup holders in the center console with a sliding cover and the standard-fitted sport leather steering wheel. Customers can also choose from four
new upholstery colors and four new interior trim strips.

xLine and M Sport offer boundless individualization.

The high-quality material and color concept shines the spotlight on the premium profile of
the new BMW X3. xLine, which lends even further emphasis to the dynamic and robust SAV
character of the X3, sees BMW expanding the scope for individualization. xLine can be
identified from the outside by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, satin aluminum side
cladding and bars in the air intakes, and simulated under guards at the front and rear. It also
allows customers to choose from additional leather upholstery variants, trim strips and 19-
inch light-alloy wheel options.

The superb dynamic qualities of the new BMW X3 can be showcased to even greater effect
by specifying M Sport, with the M aerodynamic package and High-gloss Shadow Line trim
maximizing the vehicle’s presence on the road. In addition, customers can choose from six
paint finishes and two exclusive light-alloy wheel options in 19 and 20-inch format. In the
cockpit, Anthracite roof liner and sports seats in various leather upholstery variants intensify
the sporting theme. Technical highlights include the eight-speed sport automatic
transmission, sport steering and suspension settings tuned to deliver even sharper dynamic
performance.

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Raising everyday functionality a notch.

The BMW X3 also builds further on its segment-leading status when it comes to everyday
usability and versatility. All BMW X3 models are fitted with a 6.5” iDrive display and iDrive
Controller. BMW Assist eCall, meanwhile, uses an integrated telephone unit to summon
rapid assistance. A range of other innovative options adds further to the functionality of the
new X3.

The Smart Opener, for instance, makes accessing the load compartment much easier; a short movement of the foot below the rear bumper causes it to open or close the tailgate automatically. A storage package including a reversible floor section, folding box, partition elements and a range of different luggage nets allows objects of any kind to be stowed away easily, safely and tidily, and the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat enables maximum flexibility. Elsewhere, the Hi-Fi Sound System Professional from Harman Kardon promises audio pleasure for the new BMW X3.

Powertrain: Dynamic and economical engines.

The high-revving character for which BMW is renowned, plus excellent power delivery,
compelling refinement and impressive efficiency, are also stand-out features of the cutting edge
gasoline engines available for the new BMW X3. Boasting High Precision Direct
Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve
timing, the gasoline engines make a convincing case for themselves with outstanding
dynamics yet incredibly low fuel consumption and emissions. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit
in the X3 xDrive28i, meanwhile, develops 240 hp and peak torque of 260 lb-ft. Fitted with
the eight-speed automatic transmission, the X3 xDrive28i sprints from rest to 60 mph in 6.2
seconds.

The new BMW X3 xDrive35i also meets the highest dynamic standards. Its 3.0-
liter six-cylinder in-line engine develops 300hp and produces maximum torque of 300 lb-ft,
which is on tap between 1,200 rpm and 5,000 rpm.

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Choice between rear-wheel and xDrive all-wheel drive.

Customers opting for the new BMW X3 with the 240 hp, 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine
can choose between the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and classic BMW sDrive
rear-wheel drive.

The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivers optimum traction, need-based power
distribution, and further improved dynamics and driving safety. In models equipped with
xDrive, a new xDrive status display with three-dimensional graphics in the Control Display
keeps the driver informed of the vehicle’s body roll and pitch. On vehicles equipped with a
navigation system, a compass display is also shown in the instrument cluster.

Now in its Third Generation, BMW xDrive incorporates flexibility, responsiveness, and
excellent handling characteristics. The system marks a significant evolution in xDrive
capabilities, which has always depended upon networking the Dynamic Stability Control
with the all-wheel drive system. With the overall Integrated Chassis Management system,
all three control circuits work in parallel. This refined interaction achieves even quicker
reactions to changing driving conditions and enhances xDrive’s already outstanding
handling dynamics.

BMW xDrive is unique in design and construction. In normal conditions, driving torque is
always transmitted to the rear wheels, and most of the time to all four wheels. Normal
torque split is 80% rear/20% front. The portion of torque transmitted to the front wheels is
controlled by a multi-disc clutch that can be fully open, fully engaged or at any level of partial
engagement in between. The torque split between rear and front wheels is thus steplessly
variable. Engagement pressure on the multi-disc clutch is directed by an electronic control
system in response to actual road and driving conditions. This gives xDrive a dynamic ability
that is unparalleled by other all-wheel drive systems.

xDrive does more than just optimize traction; it can also enhance both agility and stability on
grippy as well as slippery road surfaces. Using the same type of logic that Dynamic Stability
Control employs to recognize and correct for excessive over- or understeer, xDrive adjusts
the front/rear torque split to avoid these tendencies. If the system senses undesirable
oversteer, it closes the multi-disc clutch completely, sending the maximum possible torque
to the front wheels. In the case of excess understeer, xDrive opens the clutch completely,
sending no driving torque to the front wheels. The Third Generation of BMW xDrive truly
raises the bar for all-wheel drive systems in both passenger cars and sports activity vehicles.

Appearing yet again in the newest generation of xDrive is BMW’s Hill Descent Control.

Debuting in 2000 original BMW X5, Hill Descent Control made it possible to control and
steer the vehicle in downright dangerous and slippery conditions without even using the
brake pedal. When activated, Hill Descent individually applies the brakes where needed to
prevent slippage and increased speed. The driver simply needs to set the desired speed to
descend with (5-15 mph), release the brake and gas pedals, and navigate down the hill. Hill
Descent control comes standard on all xDrive equipped models.

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8-speed automatic transmission.

Many new BMW models feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, which brings smooth
shifting, sportiness and efficiency to new levels of perfection. Compared to the exemplary 6-
speed automatic offered in past BMW models, the 8-speed has “taller” cruising gears that
make a significant contribution to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, as well as
quietness. Its wider spread of ratios from lowest to highest gear enhances acceleration and
response across the range of driving speeds. The revolutionary design allows for direct
shifts from cruising gears to acceleration gears.

This new automatic’s attributes have been achieved via an innovative concept that provides
the two additional ratios (7 and 8) with no increase in bulk or weight. In an arrangement
never before employed in an 8-speed automatic, four planetary gear sets and five clutch
packs are controlled in a way that no more than two of the five clutch packs are freewheeling at any given time. The modest increase in the number of mechanical elements allows the new transmission to achieve unusually high efficiency: the so-called “gearing efficiency” is higher than 98% in all eight gears. In 6th gear, it’s highest of all because that is direct drive, with no gearing reduction at all. Combine this with reduced friction and the ability to keep the torque converter “locked up” more of the total driving time, and the transmission becomes very much a part of the overall BMW EfficientDynamics concept.

The wider spread of ratios allows the engine to run at lower speeds, often in the “tallest”
gear, 8th. Yet even with this wider spread, the steps between adjacent gears are reduced; in
turn this means a stronger, smoother flow of power during acceleration. And for the same
reason, faster shifts are a further benefit because only one clutch pack is disengaged to shift
up or down by one or two gears. On the other hand, downshifting more than two gears is
accomplished as a direct shift. For example, a downshift from 8th to 2nd gear is made with
only one clutch pack disengagement, and thus occurs without stepping down through the
intermediate gears. So, at one instant the driver can be enjoying the quiet, fuel-efficient low
rpm of 8th gear, and in the next instant getting maximum acceleration.

On the new BMW X3, a Sport Automatic transmission option with shift paddles is also
available in conjunction with M Sport.

Coasting function and ECO PRO mode reduce fuel consumption.

Other features contributing to the economical running of the new BMW X3 are the ECO
PRO mode selectable via the Driving Experience Control switch and the coasting function of
the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which disengages the powertrain at speeds of (approx.
30–100 mph) when the driver takes his foot off the accelerator.

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Safety, comfort and infotainment.

The new BMW X3 sees BMW ConnectedDrive providing further evidence of its
groundbreaking role in the link-up of the driver, vehicle and outside world. Among the
outstanding new features from BMW ConnectedDrive on board the new BMW X3 is the
latest, enhanced-capability generation of the Navigation system, complete with ECO PRO
route guidance and an iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad.

The touchpad allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs – a navigation destination, for example. Another highlight is the full-color Head-Up Display, which projects all important driving information and the assistance systems displays into the driver’s field of view. Among the other systems available as an option to further enhance safety is Active

Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go, which includes features such as Lane Departure
Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.

Aiding comfort, meanwhile, is the Parking Assistant, which automatically steers the vehicle
into parking spaces parallel to the road. BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps also make
mobility services and smartphone applications available inside the vehicle via the central
Control Display, and innovations such as the Concierge Services and ARTTI (Advanced
Real Time Traffic Information) system can also be accessed.

The standard inclusion of the BMW Assist eCall function provides another boost to safety.
This system springs into action automatically, as well as when help is summoned manually.
As soon as the crash sensors report an airbag deployment, BMW Assist eCall uses the
integrated SIM card to send the vehicle’s exact location along with all key information to the
BMW call center, enabling rapid and effective assistance at the scene of the accident. BMW
Assist eCall is now standard with 10 years of service.