BMW X3 xDrive28i Drops Two Cylinders, Australian Debut This Year
Update: Australian debut confirmed for mid- to late-2012.
BMW has downsized another of its new models, shrinking the heart of the X3 xDrive28i SUV from a 3.0 litre six-cylinder mill to the new turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder.
The same engi
Update: Australian debut confirmed for mid- to late-2012.
BMW has downsized another of its new models, shrinking the heart of the X3 xDrive28i SUV from a 3.0 litre six-cylinder mill to the new turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder.
The same engine has already made its way into a handful of Australian offerings, including the Z4 convertible and, more recently, the larger 528i.
As with its "28i" stablemates, the updated X3 xDrive28i offers 180kW and 350Nm of torque. Compared to the outgoing six-cylinder engine, power is down from 190kW from to 180kW, but torque climbs from 310 to 350Nm.
The additional torque also gives the midsized SUV a boost in acceleration, with its claimed 0-100km/h time falling from 6.9 to 6.7 seconds.
Fuel economy is the big winner here however, with the new four-cylinder engine drawing consumption down to 7.5 l/100km, versus 9.0 l/100km for the outgoing six-cylinder.
In Europe, the 2012 X3 range also comes with BMW's Driving Experience Control, adding four selectable modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco Pro.
Depending on the setting, the system will adjust the sensitivity of the stability control, damping and accelerator response.
Australia
Australian timing for the updated X3 xDrive28i has yet to be announced, but speaking with TMR this week, BMW Australia's Scott Croaker confirmed that a mid- to late-2012 launch is likely.
Video: ‘Top Gear Australia’ first preview and release date
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Video: ‘Top Gear Australia’ first preview and release date
