BMW X3 2006-2014 xDrive20d

X3 2006-2013 xDrive20d Review

BMW is currently leading the Indian luxury car market with its sophisticated models including the BMW X3. This is a mid size SUV model in its fleet, which comes in two trim levels. The BMW X3 xDrive20d is the entry level variant that is powered by a 2.0-litre twinpower turbo petrol engine, which is paired with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission gearbox. It can belt out 184bhp of peak power that results in a mammoth torque output of 380Nm. The car maker is offering this variant with an exclusive xLine package, which includes unique exterior features. As part of this package, both the front and rear bumpers are treated with titanium inserts, side sills are embellished in satin aluminum while the door sills are engraved with BMW logo. On the other hand, this trim is incorporated with an innovative "BMW driving experience control", which includes three modes like ECOPRO, comfort and sport. This feature recalibrates the performance of engine and mechanism of various components depending upon the mode selected by driver. In addition to this, it is integrated with xDrive intelligent 4WD with variable torque split, that enables the vehicle to perform well, especially on terrains and off-roads. At present, this vehicle is competing with the likes of Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 in the automobile market.

Exteriors:

This vehicle has a sleek body structure equipped with number of eye-catching cosmetics, which makes it look attractive. It comes fitted with black colored protective claddings all over, which helps it to deal with minor damages. On its front profile, a signature kidney bean shaped radiator grille with aluminum satin and is accompanied by a perforated air intake section below it. The headlight cluster is quite sleek, which is incorporated with xenon based high intensity LED light rings. The front bumper is in dual toned look that is designed with a pair of air ducts, fog lights and a large air dam. It is further decorated with titanium inserts, which gives a captivating look to the front. This vehicle has a lustrous side profile owing to the expressive line and wheel arches. Its window sills along with the side moldings are embellished in aluminum while the door handles and wing mirrors are in body color. This SUV comes fitted with a set of stylish 17-inch Y-spoke style alloy wheels, which are covered with 225/60 R17 sized tubeless radial tyres. Its rear has a radiant taillight cluster that is incorporated with innovative LED light pattern . It surrounds an expressive tailgate, which is equipped with a large windscreen and decorated with company's logo.

Interiors:

The interiors are available with a choice of beige, black or dual tone color scheme, which is further complimented by fineline wood trim. The company has used premium Nevada leather upholstery, which further gives a luxuriant finish to the insides. The car maker has equipped several advanced equipments inside like HiFi loudspeaker system along with an iDrive featuring 16.5cm color display and direct menu control buttons. Its cockpit is fitted with electrically adjustable seats, which are further provided with electric lumbar support. The rear seats can be folded in 60:40 or 40:20:40 split ratio, which adds to the convenience. Its cabin has a great leg and shoulder room along with a decent head room, which helps in getting a comfortable traveling experience. Its cockpit has a sleekly structured dashboard that is treated in a dual color scheme and is equipped with two storage boxes, instrument panel, AC unit and other sophisticated equipments. The doors along with the dashboard are decorated with fineline wood and aluminum inserts, which gives an urbane look to the cabin.

Engine and Performance:

This luxury SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine that is incorporated with latest common rail fuel injection system. It has 4-cylinders, each of which further has 4-valves and displaces 1995cc . This motor is further incorporated with a twinpower turbo charging unit, which helps it to develop a maximum power output of 184bhp at 4000rpm and yields a peak torque output of 380Nm between 1750 to 2750rpm. The company has skilfully mated this engine with a sophisticated 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission gearbox accompanied by xDrive (intelligent 4WD with torque split). It can zoom towards a 100 Kmph mark from a standstill in just 8.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 210 Kmph.

Braking and Handling:

All four wheels have been paired with ventilated disc brakes, which are coupled with superior brake calipers. This disc braking mechanism is further reinforced by anti lock braking and brake assist system. In addition to these, it comes incorporated with cornering brake control, dynamic stability including traction control programs, which keeps the vehicle stable on any road conditions. This vehicle is blessed with dynamic damping control with infinite and independent damping, which regulates the suspension mechanism and keeps the vehicle well balanced. On the other hand, it is also bestowed with a power steering with servotronic steering assist , which provides superior response and makes handling simpler.

Comfort Features:

The BMW X3 xDrive20d is the entry level variant, but it still gets some advanced comfort features. The list of aspects include front armrest with storage compartment, rear armrest with two cup holders, floor mats in velour, ambient lighting package, panoramic glass roof and roller sun-blinds for rear side windows. This trim comes with an advanced 2-zone automatic air conditioning system including rear AC vents , which keeps the environment pleasant. In addition to these, this vehicle is bestowed with through loading system, start/stop button, driver seat with memory function and other sophisticated aspects. Furthermore, the car maker has equipped BMW ConnectDrive system that includes BMW apps, Bluetooth with hands-free, USB connectivity along with extended Bluetooth featuring audio streaming, voice control function and contact photo display.

Safety Features:

This luxury SUV is equipped with sophisticated safety aspects like active head restraints and six airbags, which maximizes the protection for occupants inside. It has a list of safety features including cornering brake control, electronic vehicle immobilizer including crash sensor, electric parking brake with auto hold and ISOFIX child seat mounting. In addition to these, it has side impact protection, run flat tyres with reinforced side walls, warning traingle with first aid kit, seatbelts with belt tensioner and load limiter .

Pros:

1. Captivating exteriors and interiors.

2. Low carbon emission and fuel consumption.

Cons:

1. Price range is very expensive.

2. Authorized service stations need to increase.