Test drive BMW X3: The X-Files

For the European Union, the BMW X3 is already a foreigner. Model production moved from Graz, Austria to Spartanburg, South Carolina. It really has something of the American way of life - the new X3 is much more comfortable than its predecessor. However, in terms of behavioral dynamics, it is firmly rooted in its German roots.

BMW's entry into the world of SUV models has created a new dimension in the perception of a car of this nature. By the time the X5 was self-supporting in 1999, their drivers had become accustomed to the characteristic rocking motion, and one could hardly imagine that the multifunctional off-road model could behave like a car. In fact, from that moment on, the definition of "SUV" was far from appropriate for such vehicles. Then the X3 came along, which used the 3 Series platform and the chassis engineers decided they could fully test the brand's psychology and physique. The extremely stiff suspension provided road behavior that Auto Motor und Sport called the model “the tallest sports car in the world”. Therefore, in terms of dynamics, even with more modern technologies, it will be difficult for the new X3 to reach a higher level and the indicator of this is the almost identical results in the ISO test.

However, here comes a lot, but ...

The new X3 is far superior to its predecessor in terms of driving comfort and this is where the engineers have taken a huge step forward. The model overcomes obstacles and irregularities with some magical elasticity, absorbs vibration without hitting the body, instantly parries the swing and only after a moment continues to move tightly, as if nothing had happened. The chassis of the new X3, consisting of a specially configured MacPherson strut with double wishbones at the front and a sophisticated 92D kinematic design with a XNUMXmm wider track at the rear, does the job well.

Thanks to the Dynamic Damping Control system, which adjusts the characteristics of the shock absorbers, when the sport mode is activated, the car can be adjusted in the same way as its predecessor, but in general it is almost not necessary. Normal (which constantly adapts to conditions) and Comfort do a great job, and it takes a lot of effort to bring the car to its traction limit and require the intervention of a stabilization program. A significant contribution to this is made by the xDrive dual transmission system, the most important advantage of which is the speed of work - depending on the conditions, it redistributes torque in the range from 0: 100 to 50:50 to the front and rear axle using a plate clutch. . Its assistant is the Performance Control system, which applies targeted braking force to the inside rear wheel when cornering. Nothing else can be expected from a car that strives to ride smoothly on a muddy road. This is also supported by the new Thyssen Krupp electro-mechanical steering system, which is also more flexible and reduces energy consumption compared to the previous ZF electro-hydraulic system.

F25 platform

Not only the chassis and electronics, but the F25 platform, which is closely tied to the platform that will be used in the new 3 Series and includes components from Series 83 and 4648, make a significant contribution to achieving the combination of comfort and dynamics. ... It is not only stronger and more torsional, but also larger than its predecessor. With an increase in all dimensions (length increased by 28 mm to 1881 mm, width by 12 mm to 1661 and height by 5 mm to 1 mm), the dimensions of the first generation X3 are reached, and the spaciousness in the cabin is felt throughout. directions. For BMW, the compact SUV is now called the X5 and the XXNUMX fills the gap between it and the XXNUMX perfectly.

High-quality materials, extremely high levels of ergonomics, functional controls, easy-to-read instrumentation on the dashboard, head-up display, smartphone connectivity and Internet connectivity are just some of the combinations that provide unique passenger comfort in the car. .

What's hidden under the hood?

For starters, the model will be available in versions with a four-cylinder two-liter Common Rail xDrive 2.0d turbo diesel (184 hp) and a six-cylinder three-liter gasoline turbo engine with direct injection and Valvetronic refueling without a throttle xDrive 35i (306 hp). More powerful diesel units and smaller gasoline units will come later. An innovation is the ability to equip the diesel engine with an eight-speed automatic, which allows not only driving at low speeds due to high torque (380 Newton meters in the range from 1750 to 2750 rpm), but also the integration of a start-stop system with a special gearbox accumulator gear. This technology is also available in versions with a six-speed manual transmission offered for the diesel engine, as well as in a six-cylinder unit where automation is the only option. Such solutions, as well as the highly efficient diesel engine itself, equipped with a specially designed dual-mass flywheel that allows operation at low speeds without unpleasant vibrations, and an electronically controlled water pump that optimizes the process of reaching operating temperature, in combination with a not very heavy right leg. the average consumption is quite acceptable seven liters per 100 km.

Stylistically, BMW follows current trends in the design of its brand. The new X3 is definitely an authentic but recognizable part of the Bavarian company's lineup. It is characterized by a combination of the shape of the rear lights (with LED elements) and the dynamic configuration of the rear. The lateral silhouette immediately recognizes the genes of the predecessor, modified by two pronounced sculptural curves. However, the X3 cannot be compared to the aristocratic sculpture of the Series 5, and this is mainly due to the somewhat impersonal background of other elements with a somewhat uncharacteristic expressiveness of the headlights.

However, everything else is on top - both workmanship and dynamic capabilities, which is why the final result in the auto motor und sport test for the X3 xDrive 2.0de is five stars. It would be hard to find a better testament to the qualities of a Bavarian creation.

text: Georgy Kolev

a photo: Hans Dieter-Zeufert