BMW X3
Photography by Sammy Chan
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Text sourced from BMW Canada Inc.:
BMW's 2007 X3 Sports Activity Vehicle has arrived in retailer showrooms with new drivetrains, significant exterior styling enhancements and premium interior refinements.
The 2007 BMW X3 will be offered in two variants, both powered by BMW’s
award-winning inline six-cylinder magnesium/aluminum composite engine with
Valvetronic technology.
The X3 3.0i, succeeding the current X3 2.5, will boast 215 horspower @ 6250 rpm
and 185 ft-lb of torque @ 2750 rpm and be capable of 0-100 km/h in 8.5/8.9
seconds (man/auto) while the X3 3.0si, replacing the current X3 3.0i, will
generate a robust 260 horsepower@6600 rpm accompanied by 225 ft-lb of torque @
2750 rpm and sprint from 0-100 km/h in only 7.3/7.6 seconds (man/auto) . With a
weight of only 165 kilogrammes, the lightweight six-cylinder engines are not
only more powerful and fuel efficient than their predecessors, but their light
weight contributes to the optimization of axle-load distribution and,
consequently, to the outstanding agility and driving dynamics of the BMW X3.
Both powerplants are mated to standard six-speed manual transmission. A new
six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission will be offered as a no-cost option
in place of the previous 5-speed unit. With new converter technology and
optimized software, the new automatic transmission features reduced shift times
and improved response dynamics, contributing to improved acceleration.
The new X3 also integrates the latest generation xDrive Intelligent All Wheel
Drive system with Integrated Chassis Management technology, providing infinitely
variable power distribution to all four wheels via a rigid main shaft to the
rear axle and a multi-plate clutch that directs the torque to the front axle via
an intermediate shaft.
Maintaining a power distribution ratio of 40:60 between the front and the rear
wheels during normal driving, the Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC),
working seamlessly in conjunction with xDrive via a transfer box and
electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, ensures that power is distributed
variably to optimize traction and dynamic control in adverse conditions.
The latest generation DSC system also incorporates features that further enhance
safety and stability:
* Brake fade compensation
* Brake standby to improve emergency applications
* Hill start assist to prevent roll-back when starting on an incline
* Brake drying to maintain stopping power during inclement conditions
The 2007 BMW X3 also becomes the first BMW SAV to integrate Dynamic Traction
Control into the DSC system. At the touch of a button, the DTC allows for a
higher wheelslip threshold to accommodate, for example, starting off in loose
snow conditions.
The front styling of the new X3 has been enhanced with a new front bumper, with
an attractive split combination of body color a matte black finish, that frames
a new, slightly larger twin-kidney grill. The cleaner headlight assembly no
longer includes the DOT amber reflector, which moves to the fender. The Xenon
headlights now include the corona light rings (currently optional on the X3
3.0i). The headlight washers, which are included with the Activity Package, now
retract flush into the bumper. The new rear bumper is highlighted with chrome
exhaust tips. The new taillight cluster includes horizontal LED light
conductors. Adaptive Brake Lights enable the distinctive new taillights to
illuminate along with, and at the same intensity as the brake lights in an
emergency stop to ensure that any drivers following behind are well alerted.
Newly styled 17-inch wheels are standard, with 18-inch wheels available as a
stand-alone option on both models.
The more highly refined interior is immediately apparent. The new dashboard
material has a more luxurious grain and feature either wood trim on the X3 3.0si
or Titanium Matte trim on the X3 3.0i to match the center console and door
pulls. The door panels have been enhanced with solid door pockets and additional
upholstery above the armrests. When leather upholstery is ordered, the
upholstery on the door panels includes stitching for an added premium luxury
detail. The standard multi-function steering wheel is a new three-spoke design.
Audiophiles will appreciate the new standard auxiliary input jack located on the
back of the center console.
Enhancements to the 2007 BMW X3 also extends to the option packages, with the
popular Premium Package now including a Heated Steering Wheel on both models. A
new Comfort Package for the X3 3.0si adds 16-way Comfort Seats, Heated Rear
Seats, Comfort Seats, Park Distance Control, and Universal Garage Door Opener.
The X3 3.0si can now also be ordered with new optional 18" Double Spoke Alloy
Wheels.