2012 BMW X3 Review

Reviews

May 21st, 2012

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Pros

Comfortable rear seat; powerful turbocharged engine; crisp handling; top notch interior

Cons

Priced higher unlike many rivals.

Introduction

2012 BMW X3 is a versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, combining all-road capability and utility with sportscar like handling and performance. It is a fine choice for drivers seeking sport sedan dynamics in a crossover sport utility vehicle. For 2013, it remains essentially unchanged save for minor shuffling of optional equipment package features. Mr. Erik Goplen, exterior designer of BMW X3 stated that this goal was to create for The BMW X3 a dramatic vibrancy of shade and light highlighting the definition and form on surface with new bold X-ness. It has been designed and engineered for conveying agility, power and elegance. Both the famous kidney grille and its sleek silhouette provide it a powerful and bold stance. The specially designed taillamps show off its distinctive X3 attributes. And dimensionally, it has increased in size, making it comparable to its predecessor X5.

The BMW X3 is basically a compact crossover sport utility vehicle manufactured and sold since 2003 by the German automobile manufacturer BMW. Based on 3 Series platform, and now in its 2nd generation, the company engineered the X3 in combination with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria, who designed all X3 models under contract to BMW for the 1st generation. Production of 2nd generation X3 has transferred to the Spartanburg facility of BMW located in South Carolina, US. Following the X5, it was the 2nd model sold by the automaker as a SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle). The company showcased the predecessor to the X3 as a concept vehicle revealed at 2003 Detroit Motor Show. Known as xActivity, the company previewed a Sport Activity Vehicle based on 3 Series platform, without a vestigial roof and windows.

When BMW X3 was introduced in 2003, the company announced that it would be employing a new all-wheel drive system for powering it and the X5, a system sold as xDrive which would mediate transparently to the driver before the driver was aware of unsteadiness. The X3 was a big sales success for the brand and inspired similar offerings from competitors, including the Audi Q5, Acura RDX, Infiniti EX35, Cadillac SRX, Land Rover LR2 and Mercedes Benz GLK-Class. Nonetheless, it was formerly criticized for a minimalist, austere interior which relied heavily on obviously plastic parts, lack of off-road capability because of its passenger car platform and its harsh ride.

The all-new 2012 BMW X3 is a successor to a top seller and will be adding a new dimension to the pleasure of driving a SAV of this segment. More drastically unlike ever, it establishes benchmarks in agility, efficiency and driving dynamics, whilst simultaneously convincing through noticeably increased driving comfort. The BMW X3’s design fuses a dynamically stretched silhouette with the typical BMW X character. With a high degree of variability and a generous amount of space in the cockpit, it’s possible to adapt travel comfort and transportation capacities to suit each personal requirement. All-wheel drive technology, BMW xDrive not only has also been specifically harmonized for ensuring improved driving dynamics, but also optimizes traction. It provides mesmerizing qualities with unbending diversity, fusing both efficiency and driving pleasure with elegance and sportiness and functionality and comfort.

The 2012 BMW X3 was originally launched as a concept to the market: the premium, small SAV Vehicle with unparalleled driving dynamics and all-road capability. The first generation X3 became the best selling vehicle in the company’s lineup both in Europe and in United States. Through its lifecycle, more than 600,000 X3s have been marketed all over world with 150,000 marketed in United States. Consequently, several rivals have entered the now passionately contested class. The new generation X3 builds on the success of the original by enhancing its core competencies while adding new technology for establishing new benchmarks for efficiency, comfort and agility.

At the front, the large headlamp and forward-slanting BMW kidney grille assembly fuse with a powerful looking hood and front apron boasting 6 contour lines sweeping down to meet at kidney grill, providing the 2012 BMW X3 a bold presence. The twin round headlamps fused with round foglamps form triangular light pattern, which is characteristic of BMW Sports Activity Vehicle design. The upper edge of headlamp assembly boasts an emphasizing chrome trim, producing a focused design usual of BMWs. The company’s signature Corona Rings are again illuminated for functioning as daytime running lamps. When equipped with optional Xenon headlamps, the daytime running lamps and Corona Rings are illuminated by bright white LED lights.

The 2012 BMW X3’s profile is also exemplified by a distinctive explanation of typical BMW X design features. The short rear and front overhangs and powerfully flared wheel arches highlight the BMW Sports Activity Vehicle’s robust character. The dynamic appearance of silhouette is emphasized by 3 characteristic lines. Its brand typical upper contour line at door handle level rises steeply at first within the front wheel arch area, then flows gently to the back. 2 additional subtle lines follow this contour line above wheel arches. The back is characterized by horizontal lines, emphasizing its robust character. Expressively modeled surfaces and precise lines produce attractive shadow and light effects. The taillamps that are situated far to the outside have a unique T-shape, which is typical of BMW X3. LED lamp bars produce a unique BMW nighttime design signature. Dimensionally, unlike the previous model, it is 3.36 inches (83mm) longer, a half-inch (12mm) taller and 1.1-inches (28mm) wider, and gets a half-inch (12mm) more ground clearance.

The automaker doesn’t always get it right the first time. Take the X3, for instance. When it was introduced 10 years ago, BMW’s first compact sports utility vehicle was obviously inspired by its respected and established X5 sibling. But albeit it had the company’s trademark athleticism, that original X3 suffered from an overly stiff ride, a high price tag and some subpar interior materials. So the company, looking to make amends, completely revised it in 2011.

Although the 2nd generation 2012 BMW X3 still offers sport sedan like composure in the corners. You will find an option of a Dynamic Handling package which also changes the throttle action, suspension damping, stability control calibration and transmission shift schedule to suit the road conditions or driver’s mood. The cabin inside is as well, with solid construction and high-quality materials. Obviously, being a crossover sport utility vehicle, it also offers the expected traits of respectable cargo capacity and all-wheel drive system.

The 2012 BMW X3 is offered with two powerplants, both of which suffer from the company’s silly naming conventions. The X3 xDrive28i entry-level model offers a fairly spirited drive, whereas the X3 xDrive35i offers a very spirited drive with its 300-horsepower turbocharged, 6-cylinder powerplant. The 8-speed transmission of X3 also deserves special mention for its quick ability for optimizing performance. On the whole, the 2012 X3 is the most significant player in the small luxury crossover sport utility vehicle game. The Mercedes Benz GLK350 feels more solid but is less athletic. The Infiniti EX35 provides similar agility and power for considerably less money. The Audi Q5 offers a smoother ride, whereas the Volvo XC60 is more family friendly. However, those who are in the market looking for one with a performance oriented personality; the 2012 X3 is a great choice.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2012 BMW X3 is a compact luxury crossover sports activity vehicle, which provides comfortable seating capacity for five passengers and is available in two trims, which correspond to the powerplant: the xDrive35i and the xDrive28i.

The 28i comes standard with automatic headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, foglights, a tilt and telescoping leather wrapped steering wheel, eight-way power front seats, automatic climate control, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth, cruise control, a 12-speaker audio system with HD radio, a CD player, a USB/iPod interface and an auxiliary audio jack and iDrive electronics interface of BMW.

The 35i is identical but has adaptive xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, wood interior accents and a panoramic sunroof. Options are largely combined into packages, but several of the items are offered separately. The Sport Activity package adds 18-inch (28i) or 19-inch (35i) wheels, unique exterior trim, sport front seats, roof rails, a sport mode equipped transmission with shift paddles (35i) and a sport steering wheel, while the M Sport package is identical but has blacked out exterior trim, chrome exhaust outlets and different wheel styles.

Opting for the Premium package will get you the panoramic sunroof, power-folding/auto-dimming mirrors, front seat power lumbar support, leather upholstery, more storage features such as nets and tie-down hooks and additional lighting. The Premium package for the 35i includes a power tailgate, rear window sunshades and keyless ignition/entry. The Technology package provides front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera with top view, a navigation system with real time traffic and voice commands, BMW Assist emergency communications with enhanced roadside assistance and collision notification and Bluetooth streaming audio.

The Dynamic Handling package includes variable ratio steering, 3 driver selectable drive modes and adaptive suspension dampers. The Convenience package adds the keyless ignition/entry, adaptive xenon headlights, rear window sunshades and a power tailgate, while the Cold Weather package includes heated steering wheel and front seats with a 40/20/40-split back seat. The Cold Weather package II includes headlight washers and heated rear seats. You will also find a Premium sound package which features digital sound processing and 16 speakers.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2012 BMW X3?

Motivation for the 2012 BMW X3 28i comes from a standard inline six-cylinder 3.0 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 240 horsepower with 221 pound feet of torque. The 35i comes with the same engine but generates 300 horsepower with 300 pound feet of torque. Both are mated to eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. In performance testing, the 28i accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of 5.6 seconds, while the 35i is 1.5 seconds faster unlike the segment average. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 25 mpg highway, 19 mpg city and 21 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

Standard safety features on 2012 BMW X3 include automatic brake drying (useful in rainy weather), antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags, front airbags, active front seat head restraints, full length side curtain airbags, hill descent control and stability control. In brake testing, the xDrive35i came to a stop in 123 feet from 60 miles per hour, an average distance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave X3 its highest possible rating of Good in the side, roof and frontal offset strength tests.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

Mr. Ulrich Strohle, interior designer of BMW X3 stated that as a designer, he has always been greatly inspired by natural occurrences, including ice flows. Translated to interior design, a volume concealed underneath a soft, almost organic skin erupts and thus demonstrates a living modernity. Once you step into the 2012 BMW X3, you will immediately notice the voluptuousness. A higher seating position provides you more legroom, headroom and shoulder room ensuring an even more comfortable ride. The instrument panel has been ergonomically designed, so everything is right in your reach and every detail is handcrafted with highest quality materials.

With improved functionality in 2012 BMW X3, it is even easier unlike before to plan the ideal adventure. The trunk features a 12-volt power outlet for all your electrical requirements, while the 40/20/40 back seat folds all the way down increasing your storage space. Restraining hooks are also offered to anchor motorcycles and other valuables beneath the 2nd loading bay floor. The optional variable sports steering system offers you razor sharp precision at high and low speeds. All this makes it the company’s most versatile X3 yet. Experience a new level of comfort in the generously spacious interior of X3. A uniquely ergonomic design and wide track have improved its voluptuousness and with exceptional leg, elbow and head room, all 5 occupants will be supremely comfortable, no matter how long the ride.

Head-Up Display projects the navigation or current speed instructions discretely in driver’s field of vision, so you always see what is significant without taking your eyes off the road. Important warnings and the Dynamic Cruise Control’s selected speed are always visible on this display. The image is projected on the front windshield and is always readable, even when lighting isn’t optimal. Bluetooth audio streaming, a technology offered from BMW ConnectedDrive wirelessly plays music saved on your MP3 player or Bluetooth capable smartphone. It does it even while you are making a phone call. This feature supports all Bluetooth capable devices which are AVRCP and A2DP capable. An optional 8.8-inch Control Display provides both brilliant colors and high resolution and a generous monitor size. So, whether you use the control display for listening to music or navigation, be assured that the quality is class-leading.

Driving Impressions

With its weight distributed nearly equally over its rear and front axles, the 2012 BMW X3 handles with adeptness which you expect from this German marque. Every BMW engine follows the tenets of EfficientDynamics, reliable torque and power with outstanding fuel economy. The X3 xDrive 35i’s powerplant harnesses TwinPower Turbo technology in fusion with Valvetronic and direct fuel injection. Output is a breathtaking 300-hp with 300 lb-ft of pavement-pushing torque. But the same sophisticated technology which allows such impressive pulse raising power and revs from this groundbreaking engine also renders it one of the most fuel-efficient in its segment.

New for the 2012 BMW X3 is the company’s mighty TwinPower Turbo in X3 xDrive28i. Smooth running and Light weight, it integrates the company’s award winning High Precision Direct Injection, Double-VANOS and Valvetronic technologies. Its dynamic performance is equaled by spectacular fuel efficiency, taking you further on every gallon of gas than its six-cylinder predecessor.

BMW Performance Control produces a more dynamic driving experience by controlling each wheel individually. Most vehicles have wheels which are on an axle and connected by a differential, a special gear which adjusts for difference in length. This means the outer wheels get greater drive power, while the inner wheels gain less power. The sporty 2012 BMW X3 dominates every road, irrespective of its situation. The company’s intelligent four-wheel drive system, xDrive is able to recognize difficult road surfaces via sensors in DSC chassis control system and reacts in just a fraction of a second. xDrive has the capability to flexibly distribute power between the rear and front axle. This means the wheels with greater traction will always get an optimal level of power and this allows for exceptional traction and stability with whatever the road may bring you.

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