BMW Malaysia today introduced the F25 X3, and the second-generation SAV arrives in only a single form, this being the xDrive20d. It’s a real push for the diesel brigade, because there isn’t going to be a petrol variant of the form coming in until next year.
The replacement for the E83 rolls in as a more sizeable offering, essentially almost as large as the first-gen E53 X5. In terms of proportion, the company says it is smack midway in between the X1 and current X5 in terms of dimensions.
The X3 xDrive20d comes wearing the same pot as found on the 320d and 520d, in this case the N47D 2.0 litre four-cylinder common-rail direct injection BMW Advanced Diesel block. So you get the same output figures – 184 hp at 4,000rpm and 380 Nm at 1,750-2,750 rpm, and this one also gets the 8HP45 eight-speed auto gearbox.
Performance figures for the all-wheel drive vehicle include a 0-100kph time of 8.5 seconds and a 210 kph top speed, as well as a best-in-class fuel consumption of 5.6L/100 km.
In terms of BMW EfficientDynamics-related kit, the new X3 features optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight construction, Brake Energy Regeneration, Electromechanical Steering, demand-based control of ancillary components and functions and, for the first time in any BMW vehicle in Malaysia, an Auto Start/ Stop function in combination with automatic transmission.
If the external design is an improvement over the E83, then plenty has also happened in the interior, which features Nevada leather upholstery and matt silver satin trim finishers – the increase in overall size means that cabin space is also up; at the back, this works out to 23 mm more knee room and a 20 mm increase in width over the previous X3, so the rear seat occupants get a fair bit more space.
The rear seat backrests can be split 40:20:40, where the three segments can be folded down either individually or together, and the boot volume of 550 litres goes up to 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded.
Kit includes xenon headlamps, V-spoke style 304 17-inch alloys (with 225/60 series tyres), a 6.5-inch monitor and 12 loudspeaker audio system, and BMW ConnectedDrive components include USB connectivity and Bluetooth hands free functions, as well as access to items such as BMW TeleServices and the optional BMW Telematics Platform Accessory (TPA), which includes an emergency Vehicle Recovery System as well as other BMW Assist remote services.
The X3 xDrive20d is priced at RM348,800 (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair). Two optional packages (Technology and Comfort) are available for the F25; the Technology package features BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control working in tandem with BMW Performance Control, BMW Navigation System Professional and extended connectivity for mobile devices.
Meanwhile, the Comfort package features the automatic operation of the tailgate, comfort access system and a panoramic glass roof. The Technology package adds RM28,000 to things, while the Comfort one goes for RM18,000. Additionally, limited units of the new X3 xDrive20d Special Edition will also be available from launch, boasting additional features such as Dynamic Damper Control, Performance Control and 18-inch light alloy wheels, and this one goes for RM368,000.
Look after the jump for a full gallery of the new X3.
[zenphotopress number=999 album=2062]
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express disappointment with Malaysia-specific features and pricing, noting the engine noise and loud diesel sound in the 520d, contrasted with European models. Some suggest importing European versions for better quality and features. Debates about diesel tuning, fuel quality effects, and the reliability of diesel engines under Malaysian fuel standards are prevalent. Enthusiasts praise BMW's diesel performance, fuel efficiency, and warranty support, but there's some criticism over design and pricing, with calls for standard features like navigation. Overall, the sentiment is a mix of interest and concern about value and quality.