BMW X3 Delivers Knock-Out Blow: New Turbo-Charged X3 xDrive20i Arrives Under $60K

MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA – Nov 3, 2011: BMW today bolstered the range of its top-selling mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the BMW X3, with the addition of a four-cylinder petrol powered X3 xDrive20i.

The new two-litre petrol model drops the entry point to the X3 range to just $59,200* and is the fourth engine variant to join the X3 family.

Codenamed ‘N20’, the brand new four-cylinder engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger with VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS camshaft control and High Precision Injection. This gives the X3 xDrive20i power output of 135kW and 270Nm of torque, allowing acceleration from a standing start to 100km/h in just 8.6 seconds.

Class-leading fuel efficiency of 7.5 l/00 km comes courtesy of BMW EfficientDynamics features such as Automatic Start/Stop Function, Brake Energy Regeneration and Low Rolling Resistance tyres. C02 emissions are just 175 g/km.

As with all models in the X3 range, the X3 xDrive20i comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic, which provides finely differentiated gear ratios, allowing for better exploitation of the engine speed range. In addition, this smoothly graded gear-stepping means not only more comfortable, linear acceleration, but also allows the engine to run at optimal engine speed for longer, increasing efficiency.

The new X3 xDrive20i comes with generous standard specification, further adding to the value of this new entry point model. Standard specification matches that of the highly successful X3 xDrive20d, including 17” V-spoke alloys, cruise control with braking function, Electric Power Steering with Servotronic, Rear View Camera, Anti-dazzle interior mirror, Park Distance Control front and rear, rain sensors with automatic headlight control, Automatic climate control, BMW Radio Professional and Bluetooth.

Since its local launch in March, the second generation BMW X3 range has proven a runaway success, with more than 1,500 cars sold in Australia so far this year.

The new X3 xDrive20i will be available in BMW showrooms next month.