BMW X3 G01 LCI

• 2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i facelift review – is the RM297k base model good enough, or is it too slow or kosong?

  In BMW, Car Reviews, Cars, Video Reviews, Videos / By Pan Eu Jin / 14 October 2022 2:15 pm / 15 comments

  The facelifted G01 BMW X3 sDrive20i was launched in February this year alongside the X3 xDrive30i and xDrive30e, starting from RM296,950 on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of a two-year unlimited mileage warranty. Opt for the five-year unlimited mileage warranty and five-year/100,000 km service package and the sDrive20i’s price tag is bumped up to RM315,800. All three variants are locally assembled (CKD) in Malaysia.

  Like the X3 xDrive30i, the sDrive20i is powered by a B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although it produces less power than the xDrive30i, it still gets a respectable 184 PS from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,000 rpm. The engine is paired with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox to drive the rear wheels, unlike the xDrive models which come with all-wheel drive. The sDrive20i’s 0-100 km/h sprint is done in 8.2 seconds, with a top speed of 215 km/h.

  Aside from the M Sport body kit with sportier front and rear bumpers, the X3’s headlamps (with adaptive LED lighting) are 10 mm slimmer than before along with new daytime running light graphics. The kidney grille is also larger and joined with a single-piece frame that incorporates a front camera. It’s worth noting that all three variants of the facelifted X3 do not come with front fog lamps. Aside from the hexagonal-shaped exhaust tips, the taillights now feature a modelled pincer contour design for a more pronounced look.

  

  

  Other noteworthy mentions for the exterior include the 19-inch M light alloy style 887 wheels wrapped in 245/50 profile Bridgestone Alenza run-flat tyres, M sport suspension, walk-away auto lock and unlock along with a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Inside, standard equipment includes BMW’s Live Cockpit Plus system with a 5.1-inch multi-info display, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, an M Sport steering wheel, three USB-C and one USB-A charging ports, an auto brake hold, a three-zone climate control system, and a HiFi loudspeaker sound system. Upholstery options include Vernasca leather in Mocha or Black leather although the former is reserved for Alpine White or Carbon Black exterior colour options.

  For driver aids, the X3 sDrive20i comes equipped with the Driving Assistant package for features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane change warning and rear-cross traffic alert with brake intervention. Also offered is the Parking Assistant package with Reversing assistant and cruise control.

  So, what do you think of this new facelift X3 sDrive20i? Is it sufficiently equipped? Would you choose the X3 over the Mercedes-Benz GLC and if so, which variant would you prefer to have? Do discuss below.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 G01 BMW X3 sDrive20i facelift in Malaysia – full gallery; M Sport exterior, new interior kit; fr RM297k

  In BMW, Cars, Local News / By Pan Eu Jin / 19 August 2022 6:53 pm / 10 comments

  

  The newly facelifted G01 BMW X3 was launched earlier in February this year and is offered in three variants, namely the sDrive20i, xDrive30i and xDrive30e, the last of which marks the first time a plug-in hybrid version of the X3 is introduced in Malaysia. All three variants of X3 are now locally assembled (CKD) in Malaysia and come as standard with the M Sport package.

  In this gallery, we’re focusing solely on the sDrive20i M Sport variant, and the base model sees some significant changes inside and out compared to the previous entry-level variant of the X3, which is the sDrive20i xLine launched in April 2021. The most obvious changes are on the exterior, as the base variant now comes dressed in M Sport kit that features sportier and reprofiled front and rear bumpers.

  Other revisions involve the X3’s Adaptive LED headlamps, which are now 10 mm slimmer and sport new daytime running light graphics. The dual elements that make up the kidney grille are also slightly larger and joined together within a single-piece frame that incorporates a front camera. Unlike before, all three variants of the facelift X3 now do not come with front fog lamps.

  As you can see in the photos, the facelift brings about drastic changes to the X3’s rear-end appearance. In addition to the hexagonal-shaped exhaust tips, the taillights now feature a modelled pincer contour design for more pronounced look.

  

  

  In sDrive20i M Sport guise, the X3 is fitted with 19-inch M light alloy style 887 wheels wrapped in 245/50 profile Bridgestone Alenza run-flat tyres. You don’t get the M Sport brakes with blue calipers like the more expensive xDrive30i, but you do get M Sport suspension, albeit without adaptive damping. Standard features also include Comfort Access as well as a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Moving inside, design changes involve the air-con vents and gear lever console, which mimic those of recent BMW models. Additionally, while the M Sport steering wheel design remains unchanged, the layout of the buttons on the spokes has been revised.

  Ahead of the driver is BMW’s Live Cockpit Plus system with a 5.1-inch multi-info display like in the original 218i Gran Coupe prior to the 2022 update. This is joined by a 10.25-inch touchscreen, which is larger than the previous 8.8-inch unit, and both displays are powered by BMW Operating System 7.

  Standard features include three USB-C and one USB-A charging ports, three-zone climate control, a HiFi loudspeaker sound system, automatic headlamps and wipers, and auto brake hold. The Vernasca leather in Mocha you see here is only available with an Alpine White or Carbon Black exterior. Black leather upholstery with blue stitching is also available for the same hues as well as for Brooklyn Grey and Phytonic Blue.

  

  In terms of driver aids, the sDrive20i comes with the Driving Assistant package with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane change warning, and rear-cross traffic alert with braking intervention. It also gets cruise control and the Parking Assistant package with Reversing Assistant.

  Under the hood is the same B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the xDrive30i, although in the sDrive20i, the mill produces just 184 PS (181 hp) from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,000 rpm. The engine is paired with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox to drive the rear wheels. The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 8.2 seconds, and flat out, you’ll hit a top speed of 215 km/h.

  With sales and service tax (SST), the X3 sDrive20i M Sport retails at RM296,950 on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of a standard two-year warranty. Adding the extended warranty (five years, unlimited mileage) and service (five years, 100,000 km mileage) package brings the asking price to RM315,800.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30e M Sport facelift in Malaysia – new 292 PS PHEV with 50 km electric range, RM321k

  In BMW, Cars, Local News / By Jonathan Lee / 31 May 2022 5:13 pm / 3 comments

  

  It’s been nearly four months since the BMW X3 xDrive30e was launched in Malaysia, but we finally managed to get up close and personal with the plug-in hybrid SUV. As you’d expect, we captured a full photo gallery for you to pore over all the details.

  First, let’s talk pricing. The xDrive30e is just over RM8,000 cheaper than the petrol-powered xDrive30i, retailing at RM321,139 with the standard two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty – or RM339,989 with a five-year warranty and service package. Both figures are on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of the full sales and service tax (SST) rebate, which is only available until the end of next month. With SST included, the numbers jump up to RM337,950 and RM356,800 respectively.

  For that, you get the same plug-in hybrid powertrain as the 330e, led by a B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 184 PS from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque between 1,350 and 4,000 rpm. Those are the same outputs as the base sDrive20i.

  Sandwiched between it and the ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox is a 50 kW (68 PS) electric motor, contributing to a total system output of 252 PS and 420 Nm of torque. Peak electric power of 80 kW (109 PS) is available under hard acceleration using the XtraBoost function, enabling the xDrive30e to make up to 292 PS for up to ten seconds. In this mode, the car is able to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, two tenths of a second quicker than the xDrive30i. Both of these models are all-wheel drive, incidentally.

  

  Meanwhile, a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery, mounted above the rear axle, allows the xDrive30e to drive on electric power alone for up to 50 km on the WLTP cycle; it also helps it deliver a low (claimed) combined fuel consumption figure of between 2.0 and 2.6 litres per 100 km. Charging the battery takes 3.6 hours using a 3.7 kW AC wallbox, or around six hours with a domestic three-pin socket.

  So apart from what’s under the bonnet, what sets the xDrive30e apart from the rest of the G01 X3 range? Not much, actually. You get the same updated styling that was introduced on the facelift, including slimmer trapezoidal headlights (adaptive LED units with hexagonal daytime running lights come as standard), a larger conjoined grille and pincer-style three-dimensional taillights.

  The M Sport package, common to all X3s in Malaysia, throws on a large six-point centre air intake, L-shaped corner inlets, body-coloured cladding and a large diffuser-style rear bumper insert with trapezoidal tailpipes. Even the wheels are the same 20-inch Style 787 M two-tone alloys as the xDrive30i, hiding the same M Sport brakes with striking blue callipers.

  Aside from the obvious charging port door on the left front fender (now emblazoned with the “electrified by i” badge), the xDrive30e’s unique aesthetic touches are limited blue rings around all of the BMW roundels. The latter extends to the inside, where the car also receives a brushed surface for the aluminium trim rather than the darkened rhombic pattern on other X3s.

  

  

  The rest of the cabin is as per the petrol-powered variants, heavily revised and featuring a similar angular design to the G20 3 Series. The M Sport additions here consist of a thicker M Sport steering wheel, sports seats, alloy pedals, black headlining and M-badged side sill scuff plates. You still get Vernasca leather upholstery and a Sensatec faux leather-wrapped dashboard.

  The position of the battery means that the boot of the xDrive30e is a full 100 litres smaller than the regular X3 at 450 litres. The higher boot floor also creates a small lip (covered by a stainless steel panel), plus a slight downwards step further back when the rear seats are folded, so the load bay is not completely flat. Even so, maximum luggage capacity is an impressive 1,500 litres, so you’re not losing out too much.

  In terms of tech, the xDrive30e inherits the upgraded BMW Live Cockpit Professional infotainment system from the xDrive30i, incorporating twin 12.3-inch displays. The 16-speaker, 464-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system is also carried over, although the car at least gets a 360-degree camera system (a simple reverse camera is fitted to other models) to make up for the modest price decrease.

  

  Otherwise, the equipment list is identical to the xDrive30i’s and include passive dampers (no stiffer M Sport suspension on PHEV BMWs), keyless entry with proximity locking and unlocking, push-button start, triple-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory and bolster width adjustment, a panoramic sunroof, passive cruise control, park assist, and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Safety-wise, the X3 comes as standard with the Driving Assistant Package, which includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert with collision prevention. Six airbags, stability control and rear ISOFIX child seat anchors are fitted as usual.

  The X3 comes in four colours, including the solid Alpine White (fitted to this unit) and metallic Brooklyn Grey, Phytonic Blue and Carbon Black. The standard specification includes the black interior seen here, although you can get a Mocha brown interior with Alpine White and Carbon Black paint at no extra charge. Browse full specifications and equipment for the facelifted X3 on CarBase.my.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW X3 facelift in Malaysia – full live gallery of G01 LCI in xDrive30i M Sport form, priced at RM329k

  In BMW, Cars, Local News / By Jonathan Lee / 11 March 2022 10:35 am / 12 comments

  

  The facelifted G01 BMW X3 went on sale in Malaysia last month, but we only had unrepresentative global press photos to pad the launch report then. We have finally snapped photos of the real thing in the showroom, giving us our first proper look at the local specification.

  As a refresher, the compact executive SUV is available in two petrol variants, both of which are offered in M Sport guise. The sDrive20i retails at RM289,096 on-the-road without insurance, an increase of around RM18,000 over the previous entry-level model – although the latter came in the less sporty xLine trim. This particular unit is the xDrive30i, which retails at RM329,289; a plug-in hybrid xDrive30e is also offered.

  Those prices include the sales and service tax (SST) rebate valid until June 30, as well as the standard two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. Opt for the five-year warranty and service package and the figures increase to RM307,946 and RM348,139 respectively.

  All models get the same engine under the bonnet – a B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The difference is in the outputs – whereas the sDrive20i makes do with 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque, the xDrive30i bumps this up to 252 PS from 5,200 to 6,500 rpm and 350 Nm between 1,450 and 4,800 rpm.

  

  Also standard is a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox (the xDrive30i receives the Sport version) and paddle shifters, although as the variant name suggests, only the higher-end model gets xDrive all-wheel drive. Performance figures include a zero-to-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h; the xDrive30i is also capable of a combined fuel consumption figure of between 7.6 and 8.5 litres per 100 km.

  Previewed by the also-revamped iX3, the facelift adds slimmer trapezoidal headlights (with hexagonal daytime running lights on these adaptive LED units), a larger conjoined grille and pincer-style three-dimensional taillights. The M Sport package throws on a large six-point centre air intake, L-shaped corner inlets, body-coloured cladding and a large diffuser-style rear bumper insert with trapezoidal tailpipes.

  Setting the xDrive30i apart from the sDrive20i on the outside are the wheels. Whereas the less expensive model gets 19-inch Style 887 M two-tone alloys, this one receives larger 20-inch Style 787 M rollers with staggered Pirelli P Zero run-flat tyres. These are shared with the xDrive30e, as are the larger M Sport brakes with striking blue callipers.

  

  The changes are even more pronounced inside, with an angular dashboard that borrows elements from the G20 3 Series, including the ergonomic clustered switchgear. The freestanding centre touchscreen is larger than before – the previous range-topping 10.25-inch display is now the base unit on the sDrive20i, paired with an analogue instrument cluster and a 5.7-inch multi-info display as part of the BMW Live Cockpit Plus.

  The Professional setup on the xDrive30i upgrades this to twin 12.3-inch infotainment and instrument displays. These are linked to the BMW Operating System 7, which comes with large, customisable widgets as part of the user interface. Also unique to the xDrive30i is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with 464 watts of output, an improvement over the own-brand 12-speaker HiFi system in the sDrive20i.

  Elsewhere, the M Sport additions consist of a thicker M Sport steering wheel, sports seats, alloy pedals and black headlining. The xDrive30i also gets a Sensatec faux leather dashboard wrap, although Vernasca leather upholstery and dark aluminium trim with a rhombic pattern come as standard.

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  Otherwise, the equipment list is identical on both variants and include passive M Sport suspension, keyless entry with proximity locking and unlocking, push-button start, triple-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory and bolster width adjustment, passive cruise control, park assist, a reverse camera and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Safety-wise, the X3 comes as standard with the Driving Assistant Package, which includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert with collision prevention. Six airbags, stability control and rear ISOFIX child seat anchors are fitted as usual.

  The X3 comes in four colours, including the solid Alpine White and metallic Brooklyn Grey, Phytonic Blue and Carbon Black, the latter fitted to this display unit. The standard specification includes a black interior, although you can get a Mocha brown interior (as seen here) with the Alpine White and Carbon Black paint at no extra charge. Browse full specifications and equipment for the facelifted X3 on CarBase.my.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 G01 BMW X3 facelift launched in Malaysia – CKD; sDrive20i from RM289k and xDrive30i from RM329k

  In BMW, Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News / By Gerard Lye / 16 February 2022 11:57 am / 9 comments

  

  BMW Malaysia has officially launched the new G01 X3 facelift, which is available in three variants, including two petrol-only options – the sDrive20i M Sport and xDrive30i M Sport – as well as a sole plug-in hybrid – the xDrive30e M Sport.

  As the xDrive30e M Sport is the first time a plug-in hybrid version of the X3 is offered here, we’ve prepared a separate post for you to find out all about it. Here, we’re focusing on the non-PHEV variants of the SUV, and it should be noted that the latest X3 line-up, along with the facelifted X4 that has also been launched, are locally assembled (CKD) in the country.

  Starting with what matters most, the X3 in sDrive20i M Sport guise retails at RM289,095.64, while the xDrive30i M Sport goes for RM329,288.54. These are on-the-road prices without insurance and inclusive of the ongoing sales tax exemption – 100% as these are CKD models.

  Included in the asking prices is a standard two-year warranty, but if you want the extended warranty (five years, unlimited mileage) and service (five years, 100,000 km mileage) package, the price of the sDrive20i M Sport will be RM307,945.64 and the xDrive30i M Sport will cost you RM348,138.54.

  

  The facelift, or Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) if you prefer BMW speak, brings about a few notable changes to the X3’s design, starting with a slightly larger kidney grille with a single-piece frame finished in pearlescent chrome that also integrates a camera.

  Joining the new nose are redesigned headlamps that are 10 mm slimmer and come equipped with adaptive LED technology as standard. Elsewhere, the new bumper (not pictured here) that is part of the M Sport and Aerodynamics package has an upswept and more angular shape for its central intake – with vertical fins – and the corner inlets have also been reprofiled to be more vertical in appearance.

  The rear bumper is also sportier this time around, with a diffuser finished in Dark Shadow set in the middle of two prominent, hexagonal-shaped exhaust finishers. Equally as striking are the new taillights that feature a modelled pincer contour lighting design, horizontal turn signals and black border, placed above pseudo air outlets.

  Other design elements shared by both variants include the M high-gloss Shadowline trim elements and M roof rails high-gloss Shadowline. The sDrive20i M Sport comes with 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in a Y-spoke design (style 887 M), but it is the xDrive30i M Sport that not only gets larger wheels – 20-inch light alloys in a double-spoke design (style 787 M) – but also M sport brakes and a panorama glass roof.

  

  Inside, the X3 adopts the centre console from the latest 4 Series, while the centre stack is taken from the current 3 Series. On the former, the control island here consists of a new gear selector lever, buttons for various car functions, the engine start button and the familiar iDrive controller. Meanwhile, the centre stack features small display for the triple-zone climate system, joined by smaller air vents and controls for said climate system as well as media and quick access functions.

  In the sDrive20i M Sport, the Live Cockpit Plus system comes standard and consists of a 10.25-inch touchscreen display as well as a 5.1-inch display in the instrument cluster. The premium paid for the xDrive30i M Sport gets you the full-fat Live Cockpit Professional setup that nets you two 12.3-inch displays instead.

  Both infotainment systems are powered by BMW Operating 7 and come with various connected services like a digital personal assistant, BMW Connected, BMW Maps and support for over-the-air software updates. The base variant gets a HiFi loudspeaker system, while the xDrive30i M Sport receives a fancier Harman Kardon surround setup instead.

  An M leather steering wheel and anthracite headliner are standard fitments for both, as are M interior trim finishers in Aluminium Rhombicle dark with Pearl Chrome highlights, Galvanic embellisher for the controls, powered front sport seats with memory function, an ambient lighting system and Comfort Access. The xDrive30i M Sport that gets a Sensatec instrument panel, which is absent in the base variant.

  

  

  2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge

  BMW Malaysia says the X3 range gets Vernasca leather as standard, which comes in black with blue stitching when paired with the available Alpine White, Brooklyn Grey, Phytonic Blue or Carbon Black exterior finishes. A Mocha colour option for the upholstery is also available, but only with Alpine White and Carbon Black.

  On the safety and driver assistance front, both variants come with the Driving Assistant package, so things like Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, rear cross traffic alert, rear collision prevention and front collision warning with brake intervention are standard. The Parking Assistant package with Reversing Assistant is also included, along with passive cruise control with braking function.

  In terms of engines, the sDrive20i M Sport is powered by a B48 2.0 litre twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder that serves up 184 PS (181 hp) from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,000 rpm. It takes 8.2 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint and tops out at 215 km/h.

  

  

  2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge

  For something more powerful and with all-paw traction, the xDrive30i M Sport gets the same B48 motor, but with 245 PS (241 hp) and 350 Nm, which is good for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds and 235 km/h top speed. Both variants come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, although the base option gets a Steptronic unit, while a Steptronic Sport gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive is reserved for the latter. A stiffer M Sport suspension is also part of the powertrain package.

  With these new introductions, those interested in the X3 now have three different powertrain options to choose from in Malaysia. Petrol-only options are the sDrive20i and xDrive30i, while those that want plug-in hybrid power can consider the xDrive30e instead. If you prefer something without an internal combustion engine at all, there’s the all-electric iX3.

  Thanks to the government’s decision to exempt electric vehicles from import and excise duty from this year until the end of 2023, the X3’s pecking order in terms of price is now as follows (prices with a standard two-year warranty and sales tax exemption factored in):

  • BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport (CKD): RM289,095.64
  • BMW iX3 M Sport Inspiring (CBU): RM298,354.69
  • BMW iX3 M Sport Impressive (CBU): RM315,608.94
  • BMW X3 xDrive30e M Sport (CKD): RM321,139.45
  • BMW X3 xDrive30i M Sport (CKD): RM329,288.54

  With these options, if you’re in the market to buy a new X3, which one gets your money? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 G01 BMW X3 xDrive30e M Sport PHEV launched in Malaysia – 292 PS, 420 Nm, 50 km range; RM357k

  In BMW, Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News / By Matthew H Tong / 16 February 2022 10:48 am / 6 comments

  

  The G01 BMW X3 xDrive30e M Sport has officially been launched in Malaysia. This is the first time a plug-in hybrid variant of the X3 is available here, and the locally-assembled SUV arrives in the facelifted LCI guise. It’s priced at RM356,800 with the five-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service package, or exactly RM2,000 less than the X3 xDrive30i M Sport.

  The PHEV powertrain here should be familiar to most. Its primary propulsion comes from the B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-pot that makes 184 PS at 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,000 revolutions.

  It’s mated to an 80 kW (109 PS) electric motor that’s housed within the eight-speed automatic transmission, and the total system output is 292 PS and 420 Nm. That’s good for a century sprint time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The top speed in electric mode is 135 km/h, whereas the combined fuel consumption is between 2.0 to 2.6 litres per 100 km.

  

  A 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is capable of providing between 42 km to 50 km of pure electric range, and supports AC charging at a rate of up to 3.7 kW via a Type 2 connector. An 80% state-of-charge can be achieved in 2.4 hours, whereas a full charge is around 3.7 hours.

  As for the design side of things, the X3 now features a slightly larger kidney grille, and the LED headlights are 10 mm flatter than before. The tail lights are completely new as well, and complementing the M Sport kit is a set of staggered 20-inch light alloys. Despite the M Sport kit however, M Sport suspension is not standard here.

  Inside, the updates are much more pronounced. There’s a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display with BMW Operating System 7, and the entire centre stack is replaced with the one from the G20 3 Series. The centre console is also new, grafted from the latest G22 4 Series. BMW Live Cockpit Professional with the 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display is standard here.

  

  For safety, the X3 range now include Driving Assistant as standard, which includes Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and autonomous emergency braking (AEB). Exclusive to the PHEV is Parking Assistant Plus with Park Assist for end-on, lateral and parallel parking, as well as automatic exiting.

  Exterior colour options include Alpine White, Brooklyn Grey, Phytonic Blue and Carbon Black, while interior upholstery is either black Vernasca leather with blue stitching or Mokka Vernasca leather for Alpine White and Carbon Black. The X3 is also capable of over-the-air remote software upgrades, and the feature set for the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant have been expanded as well.

  BMW Group Malaysia managing director, Hans de Visser said: “Last year, the BMW X Portfolio recorded over 3,200 deliveries in Malaysia – contributing to just over 38% of total deliveries from the BMW brand. This success of the BMW X portfolio signals a strong market within the country, in turn affirming our confidence in expanding and revolutionising the automotive industry here with more local assembly facilities and infrastructure.”

  GALLERY: G01 BMW X3 xDrive30e LCI

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 BMW X3 and X4 facelifts revealed – G01 and G02 LCI get new styling, mild hybrid engines, equipment

  In BMW, Cars, International News / By Gerard Lye / 9 June 2021 11:30 am / 4 comments

  

  BMW has finally taken the covers off the facelifted G01 X3 and G02 X4, with the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) update for both models resulting in some pretty substantial changes. Apart from the usual styling revisions, the company’s Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) also benefit from technological improvements.

  In terms of design updates, the updated face on both the X3 and X4 features a slightly larger kidney grille that is now comprised of a single-piece frame finished in pearlescent chrome. A black bar in the middle of the frame that houses a camera visually separates the two sections of the grille.

  Elsewhere, the front apron now sports vertical air intakes that are part of a triangular-shaped section on the bumper, which also sees a reprofiled lower intake that blends into a pseudo skid plate.

  BMW also redesigned the headlamps to be 10 mm flatter than before, and these are now equipped with full LED technology as standard on the X3. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix function come as standard on the X4 but are optional on the X3, while the range-topping Laserlight system is also available at a cost for both. For those that want a stealthier look, there’s the optional Shadow Line M light package that introduces darkened inserts in the headlamps.

  

  

  While the revisions at the front are shared, the more stylish X4 gets a mesh insert for its grille rather than the X3’s grille bars – both are finished in satin aluminium (extended to the window trim and roof rails). As for the rear, it is the X3 that sees the most drastic changes, with taillights that feature a modelled pincer contour lighting design, horizontal turn signals and black border.

  The darkened look of the taillight clusters is replicated on the X4 too, and both cars have redesigned and repositioned reflectors. Other changes include a tweaked rear apron and the fitment of more tailpipe trims that are larger and sportier in design.

  For cars with the M Sport package, there’s a specific front apron that sports larger air inlets and more pronounced air curtains. The rear bumper is also sportier too, with a diffuser finished in Dark Shadow and two side air curtain panels on the X3. On the X4, the rear apron gets a wide, offset insert in the shape of an anvil.

  The standard wheels with the M Sport package include 19-inch light-alloy Y-Spoke style 887M wheels in Midnight Grey Bicolor, and customers can specify the M High Gloss Shadow Line package to have various exterior bits like the grille frame, window trim and grille finished in high-gloss black.

  

  Moving up the tree to the M Performance variants, the specific BMW M kidney grille bears a chrome frame and gets double grille bars in high-gloss black and with an M logo. The bumpers are the same as the M Sport package, but the tailpipes are done in black chrome and come with two “teeth” inserts. These versions also get 20-inch M light-alloy double-spoke style 699M wheels in Orbit Grey, with the option of even larger 21-inch M double-spoke style 718M units in Jet Black.

  The company also noted that the X3 gets underbody protection and specific side sills in the style of the previous X-Line package as standard. Additionally, the X3 is the only one that gets a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and all X3 xDrive30e units will have blue-ringed BMW logos and “electrified by i” emblems on the front wings.

  Moving inside, both X models adopt the centre console from the latest 4 Series, while the centre stack is taken from the current 3 Series. In the case of the former, the control island here consists of the gear selector lever, buttons for various car functions, the engine start button and the familiar iDrive controller.

  Meanwhile, the new centre stack is equally as familiar, with a small display for the climate system and a row of controls beneath it and the sleeker air vents. Below the HVAC panel is another set of controls for media and quick access functions, just like in the 3 Series.

  

  

  As standard, the X3 and X4 come with the Live Cockpit Plus system based on BMW Operating System 7 that includes a free-standing display measuring 10.25 inches and a 5.1-inch display in the instrument cluster. Upgrading to the Live Cockpit Professional system sees both displays being replaced with 12.3-inch units instead, and there’s a head-up display available as an option too.

  Drivers will have access to a variety of connected features thanks to the onboard SIM card, including BMW Maps, smartphone integration (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), Amazon Alexa, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and remote over-the-air updates.

  Redesigned sports seats trimmed in Sensatec are now standard, which can be improved to feature additional control and comfort functions, as well as fancier Merino leather. A range of new trim finishers are also available, along with extended ambient lighting functions and other comfort options.

  Focusing on powertrains, the X3 and X4 is offered with three petrol (xDrive20i, xDrive30i, M40i) and three diesel (xDrive20d, xDrive30d and M40d) options. The xDrive20i comes with a 2.0 litre twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder that serves up 184 PS (181 hp) from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,000 rpm. It takes 8.4 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint and tops out at 215 km/h.

  

  

  The xDrive30i offers the same engine configuration but is tuned to deliver 245 PS (241 hp) and 350 Nm, which is good for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.6 seconds and 235 km/h top speed. The M Performance variant that is the M40i swaps out the 2.0 litre unit for a 3.0 litre turbocharged straight-six making 360 PS (355 hp) from 5,200 to 6,500 rpm and 500 Nm from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm for a 4.9-second century sprint time and electronically limited 250 km/h top speed.

  On the diesel front, the xDrive20d’s 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel makes 190 PS (188 hp) at 4,000 rpm and 400 Nm from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm, allowing for a 0-100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds and 213 km/h top speed. Stepping up to the xDrive30d results in a larger 3.0 litre straight-six turbodiesel making 286 PS (282 hp) at 4,000 rpm and 650 Nm from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm, which translates to a 0-100 km/h time of 5.7 seconds and 245 km/h top speed.

  The M40d takes things further to have a 4.9-second century sprint time and 250 km/h top speed, thanks to its more powerful 3.0 litre turbo straight-six that delivers 340 PS (335 hp) and 700 Nm. All variants come with xDrive all-wheel drive and an Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, although M Performance variants get the Steptronic Sport version.

  

  

  

  

  That’s not all, as all six engine options are equipped with 48-volt mild hybrid technology by default, with a starter generator rated at 11 PS (11 hp or eight kW) to aid in energy recuperation, engine support during acceleration and coasting. This is linked to an 11 Ah battery that also supports the 12-volt, 90 Ah battery for auxiliary systems.

  As mentioned earlier, only the X3 can be had with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the xDrive30e is largely based on the xDrive20i. However, the mill is augmented by an electric motor integrated into the Steptronic transmission that is rated at 109 PS (107 hp or 80 kW) and 265 Nm. All in, the total system output is 292 PS (288 hp) and 420 Nm, which allows for a 6.1-second century sprint time and 210 km/h top speed.

  Running on electricity alone, the top speed is capped at 135 km/h, and the 12-kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 50 km of electric-only range. The xDrive30e supports charging up to 3.7 kW via a Type 2 connector, with a full charge taking about 3.7 hours (2.4 hours for 80% SoC).

  

  

  Lastly, in the safety and driver assist department, BMW has made the Driving Assistant Professional package available for the first time as an option for the X3 and X4. This consists of active cruise control with stop and go function at speed of up to 210 km/h. The avoidance manoeuvre assistant also reacts to pedestrians and cyclists, while emergency stop assistant, steering/lane guidance assistant, front cross-traffic alert and wrong way alert are some of the other functions.

  The Parking Assistant package also now includes the reverse assistant as standard, and going up to Parking Assistant Plus nets you a 360-degree overview of the vehicle and its surroundings. Joining the list of system is the optional BMW Drive Recorder, which is essentially a built-in dashcam.

  The new X3 and X4 will get their market launches in summer this year, following the start of production at the Spartanburg plant in the United States beginning August 2021. Following its digital premiere, both will appear at the Chengdu Motor Show in China, and the European unveiling takes place at Munich during the The International Mobility Show (IAA).

  GALLERY: G01 BMW X3 xDrive30e LCI

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  GALLERY: G02 BMW X4 M40i LCI

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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