Even though BMW has yet to release full technical data for the 2011 X3, it is known that the new SUV is expected to grow in size while shrinking in weight. It is expected that the X3 will become roughly 3.3 inches longer overall, with an added .6 inches to the wheelbase, along with an extra 1.1 inches of width and 1.4 inches of height. Depending on the model, weight is expected to drop by roughly 50 pounds.
Thanks to the larger outer shell, passengers are also expected to gain .8 inches of legroom in the back row, along with another 2.8 cubic feet of storage space in the rear hatch area.
The current X3 has been criticized for a sub-par interior, but it looks as though BMW has addressed that issue for the 2011 model year. While we can’t comment on the feel of the interior, the design is classic BMW and looks to be comprised of high-quality materials.
The exterior of the 2011 model is still recognizable as an X3, albeit with a decidedly more modern look. Nothing radical here, but the X3 now shares the same basic design language as seen on BMW’s new 5- and 7-Series models.
The 2011 X3 will launch with in two trim levels — X3 xDrive20d and X3 xDrive35i. The xDrive20d model — which will likely be reserved for the European market — features a 184 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque version of BMW’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel. While not the powerhouse of the X3 lineup, the four-cylinder diesel is quite peppy, accelerating the X3 from 0-62 in 8.5 seconds, carrying on to a top speed of 130mph.
The X3 xDrive35i uses BMW’s familiar turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Power is rated at 306 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque, transforming the X3 into a serious performer. The sprint from 0-62 takes just 5.7 seconds, with the xDrive35i topping out at 152mph.
Both powerplants are backed by BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission, with the six-cylinder version of the X3 featuring automatic stop-start technology.
Look for the 2011 BMW X3 to bow later this year at the Paris Motor Show, followed by a European and then North American roll out.
The new 2011 BMW X3 has been officially revealed and this little brother of the popular BMW X5 finally moves away from the previous hideous styling.
The top of the range 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i price starts at 51,850 EUR or 66,259 USD.
X3 xDrive35i is powered by the 3.0-liter straight 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo direct injection engine with VALVETRONIC. The 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i outputs 225 kW/306 bhp at 5,800 rpm and 400 Nm of torque at 1,300 rpm. This high hp output makes the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and up to a maximum top speed of 245 km/h.
xDrive20d version of X3 will cost EUR46,900 ($60,140).
The BMW X3 is set to make its public debut at the Paris Auto show in September.
