The already popular BMW X3 will no doubt become even more popular with an extended range of model variants available. From October 2011, the X3 will be available in a total of 6 different models, while in South Africa, customers will have the option of only four variants, two petrol and two diesel options. The new engine models will feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology as well as optimised fuel consumption and performance.

BMW X3 range grows with new powerful engines

The new entry level petrol model comes in the form of the BMW X3 Drive20i. It comes with a new 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine along with High Precision direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The engine in the X3 Drive20i is capable of producing 135 kW at 4800rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 1250 rpm and comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

At the top of the performance pile for the new X3 range is the xDrive30d and xDrive35d. Noted as the world’s sportiest 6-cylinder diesel engine, the new 3.0 litre engine in the xDrive35d produces 230 kW at 4400 rpm, which makes it the most powerful vehicle in the SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) range. Torque output peaks at 630 Nm from 1500 to 2500 rpm. The xDrive30d is not far behind with a peak output of 190 kW at 4000rpm and a peak torque of 560 Nm from 2000 to 2750rpm.

Look out for the new range of BMW X3 model variants in South Africa as of October 2013.