2011 BMX X3 Preview: 300-hp XDrive35i Model, 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Details of the upcoming second-generation BMW X3 have been confirmed by BMW, just a week after news broke of a 300-hp xDrive35i model. While a long list of engines will be offered in other markets, North American will likely get just two of them, a 268-hp 3.0-liter inline-six in the xDrive28i model and the 300ish horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six in the xDrive35i.
Both models are also set to come with a new 8-speed automatic transmission that should help deliver much improved fuel economy. Other fuel economy improvements will come through the use of a new electric power steering system and light weight materials to reduce the overall weight of the compact crossover. According to AutoCar, the base X3 xDrive20d model offered in Europe will weight as much as 50 lbs less than the outgoing model.
Other models set for Europe include the xDrive30d, with a 241-hp 3.0-liter diesel. It’s possible this engine or the 335d’s engine could be offered in North America as well.
Slotting in between the new X1 and X5 model, the X3 grows considerably measuring roughly 3.3-inches longer, one inch wider, and 1.5-inches higher. The wheelbase has been stretched by 15mm (roughly half an inch) which should not only add interior room but also deliver a more comfortable ride. Also helping int he ride department is a new Variable Damping Control system. The rear cargo area also expands to a total of 19.4 cubic feet.
BMW is expected to officially announce full X3 details in the coming months with the crossover’s official debut set for the Paris Auto Show this September. An ActiveHybrid model is expected to debut afterwards, possibly in 2012.
[Source: AutoCar]
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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I love my X3 3.0i with 6-speed manual transmission, but it is always exciting to see what the geniuses from BMW do to one-up the current model.
I just bought myself BMW x3,2011 series,automatic transmission and am suppose to pick it from the BNW dealers in Vianna but am not familier with the shifting of automatic transmission,So how could i drive of the shift transmission when driving?????????