2011 BMW X3 SUV Scooped: Grows in Size, Could get a Hybrid Version

After the presentation of the all-new X1 SUV, BMW's engineers are now busy preparing the second-generation X3 which is due to arrive in international markets in 2011. Based on the next 3-Series platform architecture, the new X3 bears the codename F25 and will come with all-wheel drive or as BMW calls it, xDrive. It is possible though that just like the smaller X1, the Bavarian automaker may also offer rear-wheel drive only variants of its compact SUV.

The introduction of the X1 in BMW's SUV range should result in an increase of the X3's exterior dimensions in order to further differentiate the two models. As it stands now, the Bavarian SUVs are similar in size, with the X1 being just 4.5 inches (114 mm) shorter, 2.2 inches (55 mm) narrower and 5.1 inches (130 mm) lower than the current X3.

While the prototype model's funky disguise does not reveal much about the design, it is expected that the new X3 will do away with the current model's flame-surface styling adopting many design cues from BMW's latest vehicles such as the 7-Series as well as the Concept CS. As for the interior, buyers should look forward to higher quality materials and a more contemporary design for the dashboard.

There'll be a wide engine range to choose from, with gasolines ranging from the 170HP 2.0-litre four-banger to a range-topping 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six while the diesel line-up will include numerous four- and six-cylinder engines.

It has also been reported that the next-generation X3 will gain a hybrid variant featuring a gasoline engine and a high-performance electric motor that will allow the vehicle to to be driven on electric power only, on the combustion engine alone, or with a combination of both power units.

Whereas the current X3 is built under contract by Magna Steyr in Austria, the new compact SUV will be manufactured at BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina alongside the X5 and X6 models.

BMW to Exhibit X3 xDrive20d Rescue Vehicle in Geneva

One of less significant premieres of next week's Geneva Auto Show will be the BMW X3 xDrive20d emergency rescue vehicle that is making its first public appearance as the Bavarian automaker wants to show off its special-purpose vehicles. The X3 medical emergency vehicle is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine that develops an output of 177HP offering an average fuel consumption of 6.5 lt /100km which is equal to 34.6mpg US.

Like any emergency rescue vehicle, the X3 is fitted with a special roof-mounted alarm system, including a blue light, an electronic siren, and an LED display with the word NOTARZT ("emergency doctor"). Furthermore, there are two flashing lights are inside the boot, which when opened, provide sufficient warning to oncoming traffic.

Inside, the X3's cabin has been converted for medical use featuring among other things, a sturdy metal dividing frame between the luggage space and passenger cabin, a mounting for the radio device, which includes a power supply and a rest for the hand unit, as well as a charging point in the luggage area.

BMW X3 SUV Limited Sport Edition Released for German Market

From March 2009, BMW will offer German buyers a new version of its X3 compact SUV called 'Limited Sport Edition'. Before you get all excited and everything, the new variant of the Bavarian crossover is nothing more, nothing less, than an X3 adorned with an M Sport package, large 19-inch alloy wheels and sport seats in a combination of leather and alcantara.

The X3 Limited Sport Edition can be combined with all six engines that are available on the 2009 model year, ranging from the 150HP 2.0-liter turbo diesel to the 286HP twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel.

Alloy wheels and sports seats aside, BMW's M package adds several goodies such as a sport suspension, xenon headlights with Adaptive cornering light, M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, a subtle exterior bodykit, chromed exhaust pipes and more.

Depending on the engine variant, the price for the Limited Edition Sport package ranges between €7,250 and €7,900. BMW said that the availability of the special edition X3 will be limited to a year.

BMW Recalling 200,000 Vehicles in the U.S. Over Airbag Problem

Today, NHSTA announced that BMW is recalling 200,000 vehicles in the U.S. over concerns that the front passenger airbag may not deploy in the even of a crash due to a sensor problem. The models affected from the recall include the 2006 MY 3-Series, the 2004-2005 MY 5-Series and the 2004-2006 MY X3 SUV. According to NHTSA, depending on the manner and frequency of the front passenger's entry and exit, small cracks could develop in a seat detection mat. If this occurs, the front passenger air bags (with the exception of the head protection system) will be deactivated and the air bag warning lamp as well as the passenger air bag "on-off" lamp will be illuminated. -Continued

BMW said that its dealers will rework the front passenger seat sensor mat so that external force application to the seat does not cause a crack to the mat. The recall is expected to begin during late September 2008. The German carmaker also announced that it will extend the warranty on these vehicles to 10 years from first registration without any mileage limit.

2009 BMW X3 xDrive: New Special Editions & Minor Revisions

BMW’s model update rampage continues with the presentation of the 2009 X3 that obtains the company’s new SUV/Crossover designations that were first introduced in the X6. As an example, the 2.0-litre gasoline entry-level model will now be designated “X3 xDrive20i”, and the most powerful diesel model will now bear the name “X3 xDrive35d”. Unduly complicated in our opinion –what’s wrong with using a simple name like X320i or X3 20i?

Name change aside, the 2009 model year X3 that goes on sale this fall features an updated interior with upgraded materials, new rotary knobs for the radio and the optional navigation system and a chromed handbrake button. Furthermore, BMW introduced two new special edition models of the X3 xDrive dubbed Lifestyle and Exclusive as well as adding new options in terms of paintwork colours, interior trim, alloy rims, and storage boxes. -Continued

In concern of the special edition models, the X3 Lifestyle gets 18-inch light-alloy rims in double-spoke design on the xDrive35d and, respectively, 17-inch V-spoke wheels on all other model variants. Inside, the Lifestyle edition features a leather steering wheel, seat upholstery in Pearlpoint/Pearl cloth/leather as well as the gearshift and handbrake lever gaiters finished in black.

This particular package is completed with interior trim in Space Grey metallic, with an alternative choice of four other trim variants. The X3 xDrive Lifestyle is offered with a new Space Grey metallic along with eight more colours

As for the X3 Edition Exclusive, it receives 18-inc alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design. In the cabin, among other things, the Exclusive features standard, sports and, respectively, comfort seats in Nevada leather, a leather steering wheel, armrests at the front, as well as interior trim in light burr walnut. Furthermore, the Edition Exclusive comes with xenon headlights, a headlight washing system, a rain sensor, and a lights package. Outside, the new colour Mineral Green metallic is exclusive to this Edition with an alternative choice of nine other paintwork colours.

Both Edition Models of the four-cylinder versions of the X3 are finished with kidney grille bars in Graphite metallic and feature an oval chrome tailpipe on the exhaust. In addition, both Edition Models may be further upgraded by BMW Individual features in the interior.

And if that isn’t enough, BMW also offers a new Comfort Package Plus as an individual option on both Edition versions of the 2009 X3. The package includes Servotronic steering assistance, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic air conditioning and a climate comfort windscreen, an interior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function, the BMW Business audio system including HiFi loudspeakers, an additional storage package, and a ski-bag.

Depending on the model variant, the Comfort Package Plus starts at a price of €1,950 –don’t ask why… The prices of the new Edition Models range in Germany from €36,700 for the X3 xDrive20i Edition Lifestyle to €53,950 for the X3 xDrive35d Edition Lifestyle, and €39,650 for the X3 xDrive20i Edition Exclusive up to €56,050 for the X3 xDrive35d Edition Exclusive.