The New X3
Published: 25th October 2003
In the process of developing the X3, BMW's engineers have naturally given particular significance to active and passive safety. Right from the start, the remarkable configuration and design principle of a BMW Sports Activity, with the front drive shaft running through the oil sump, has given the X3 a very low centre of gravity, reducing body sway in the process. With its intelligent distribution of power, xDrive keeps the X3 very stable and secure even in fast bends, generally avoiding critical situations from the beginning. And should such a situation arise nevertheless, DSC suspension control featured as standard intervenes immediately to restore the stability of the X3.
Yet a further feature fitted as standard on the X3 is the Tyre Pressure Indicator (TPI) constantly comparing wheel speed in order to monitor air pressure in the tyres and giving the driver both an optical and an acoustic warning in the event of any loss of pressure.
Additional highlights: panorama roof and Adaptive Headlights
The BMW X3 comes with a very wide range of optional features, two
particular highlights being the new, large panorama roof and BMW's
innovative ALC Adaptive Headlights.
The two-piece panorama roof extends almost completely throughout the entire roof area of the X3, covering a glass area of 0.65 square metres. And the driver is able to open up the roof completely simply at the touch of a button.
Adaptive Headlights, in turn, improve the driver's visibility in the dark by swivelling to the side in an infinite adjustment process geared to the steering angle of the vehicle. This adjusts the two bi-xenon headlight units as required as a function of the steering angle, yaw rate and road speed, thus illuminating bends ahead of the driver clearly and brightly.
BMW offers the particularly performance-minded purchaser of the X3 a special Sports package that, thanks to its specific suspension set-up, gives the X3 an even higher top speed. Further features included in this package are white direction indicators, satin chrome, and star-spoke light-alloy wheels, as well as a leather sports steering wheel and sports seats for both the driver and front passenger.
The new BMW X3 will be available in Europe and North America from
the beginning of 2004. Other markets will follow later.
