BMW X3

Confidence from unwavering popularity

BMW's best-selling model, the X3, has evolved into its fourth generation. This time, we will focus on the current top-of-the-line model, the X3 M50 xDrive. — BMW’s best-selling model, the X3, has evolved into its fourth generation. This time, we will focus on the current top-of-the-line model, the X3 M50 xDrive.

The X3, BMW’s best-selling model, has undergone a full model change into its fourth generation. At the international test drive event held near Munich, Germany, we were impressed by the excellent finish of the car, which is truly worthy of being placed at the very heart of the brand, and it is no exaggeration to say that it embodies everything that BMW has to offer today.

The sharp-edged exterior design common to the latest BMW cars, such as the X1 and X2, has already generated mixed reactions among fans, but we must remember that BMW designs have always been controversial, and in the end, everyone has accepted and become fascinated by them.

In fact, the attention to detail, such as the new interpretation of the four-eye design and the large kidney grille with diagonal slits inside, is impressive, and the proportions of the car, with its increased overall length and width, and especially the wider rear track, are impressive when you see the actual car. Not only is it stylish, but it also has excellent aerodynamic performance with a Cd value of 0.27. It’s very convincing.

Adopts a larger curved display

It features a large BMW curved display that incorporates an interaction bar that extends to the left and right doors. — [1]

The interior, which features the BMW Curved Display, incorporates an interaction bar inherited from the 7 Series, extending to both doors. Recycled materials are used boldly in the interior, contributing to a new sense of luxury, including a unique texture. Of course, as you’d expect from BMW, there has been no oversight in the way it drives. Of particular note is the chassis. The caster angle of the front wheels has been increased by 19%, and the hydraulic mounts of the rear axle subframe and torque arm have been strengthened. New materials are used for the anti-roll bar bushings.

The powertrain lineup includes gasoline, diesel, and PHV models. This time, we test drove two of the models.

The X3 20 xDrive combines a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbo engine with a mild hybrid system. Its specifications are a maximum output of 208 PS and a maximum torque of 330 Nm. Thanks to the powerful motor assist of 18 PS and 200 Nm, the car starts smoothly and powerfully, and then you can enjoy a pleasant acceleration. There is certainly a joy to be had when driving.

The car’s exceptional quietness was also impressive. Thanks in particular to the attention to detail in the window moldings and door mirrors, wind noise is barely noticeable even at higher speeds, which is a real blessing.

A 3.0-liter inline-6 twin-turbo engine with a pleasant revving feel

The car is powered by a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine with a 48V mild hybrid system, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and fitted with Continental SportContact 7 tires. — [3]

The footwork is also impressive. Thanks to the increased camber, the steering is very responsive and the car responds accurately, allowing you to clear corners smoothly as if in one stroke.

Next up was the X3 M50 xDrive. The 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder turbo engine incorporates fuel-saving technologies such as the Miller cycle and mild hybrid, producing a maximum output of 398 PS and a maximum torque of 580 Nm. The body is additionally reinforced and is combined with an M Sport suspension and an M Sport differential. The test vehicle was also equipped with an adaptive M suspension.

The first thing that surprised me was the ride quality. Thanks in part to the increased body rigidity, the ride is very smooth. It’s safe to say that the comfort surpasses that of the 20 x Drive. And it doesn’t sacrifice any driving performance. The increased body rigidity, increased caster angle, and even the M Sport differential are probably all contributing factors. Straight-line stability is excellent, with a humming sound even at speeds of 200 km/h. Steering response is also sharpened, allowing you to enjoy cornering with a sense of unity.

I was actually a little worried about the engine, but it allowed me to fully enjoy the flavor of a straight-six. The precise rotation feeling and smooth acceleration were excellent. It was an environmentally friendly car, but its teeth had not been cut out.

A car worthy of praise for its excellent overall balance

With its excellent ride quality, integrated cornering performance, and satisfying engine, I was delighted with how well the M50 xDrive performed.

The new X3 has a high level of balance in every aspect, and I was once again impressed by the latest model of this best-selling car. Personally, I was particularly pleased with the performance of the M50 xDrive. I am grateful that such a model has evolved and survived in this day and age.

It will soon be arriving in Japan. In addition to the model we test drove this time, a diesel engine model will also be added to the lineup.

REPORT/Yasuhisa SHIMASHITA

PHOTO/BMW AG

MAGAZINE/ GENROQ December 2024 issue

SPECIFICATIONS

BMW X3 M50 xDrive

Body size: Length 4755mm, width 1920mm, height 1660mm

, wheelbase: 2865mm,

engine: inline 6-cylinder DOHC turbo,

total displacement: 2998cc,

maximum output: 280kW (381PS) / 5200-6250rpm,

maximum torque: 540Nm (55.1kgm) / 1900-4800rpm,

transmission: 8-speed automatic,

drive system: AWD ,

suspension type: front double wishbone, rear multi-link,

brakes: front and rear ventilated discs,

acceleration from 0 to 100km/h: 4.6 seconds,

top speed: 250km/h