km : Automotive News

Last month we had a rare opportunity to preview the second-generation BMW X3. As you can see from the pictures, the cars we drove bore heavy camouflage, as BMW still wasn't quite ready to bare its details. Now the wraps are all off, as BMW today released full details of the 2011 X3 for the American market.

As we reported originally, two models will be available at launch: the X3 xDrive28i (240 hp) with a naturally aspirated six-cylinder will anchor the lineup, while the more powerful turbocharged X3 xDrive35i (300 hp) will top it. Both models will feature an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard equipment, along with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.


The chassis of the next X3 will use a double-jointed MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. These may be paired with BMW's optional Electronic Damping Control system, which allows the driver to change the firmness of the shock absorbers at the push of a button. This option will also include a "performance" setting, which will direct 80% of torque to the rear wheels and will also have the ability to drag the inside rear wheel slightly using the brake system to induce a bit of chassis rotation in high-demand situations.

The first-generation X3's styling often drew criticism for its awkward proportions and particularly cheapish interior. The new model should quiet those critics, as it now sports a more sophisticated look that's closer to the X5, despite wearing critical dimensions that are nearly identical to its predecessor. The interior in particular has moved up a class, essentially matching its more expensive sibling in terms of material quality and design details.


The new X3 will join BMW's X5 and X6 sport activity vehicles on the Spartanburg, South Carolina, assembly line for the first time. The company has been busy for the last couple years readying the facility for this expansion in capacity, investing more than $750 million to upgrade the plant. All X3s for worldwide consumption will come out of the Spartanburg plant.

The 2011 BMW X3 will arrive in US dealerships late in the fourth quarter of 2010. Pricing will likely be announced just prior to the Los Angeles Auto Show in mid-November.

To read the full press release from BMW North America, visit our BMW enthusiast site, mwerks.com.

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