2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i First Look
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2011 BMW X3
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For 2011, BMW’s X3 has a larger body, more powerful engines and a more comfortable ride. Two engines are offered at launch, a 240-horsepower/221 lb-ft, 3.0-liter normally aspirated in-line six, and a 300-horsepower/300 lb-ft turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line six. Both use BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission—no manual transmission is planned.
The effectiveness of BMW’s xDrive system is supplemented by the new Performance Control feature, which adjusts torque split to the outside wheel deemed most beneficial to the cornering maneuver the X3 is undertaking. The system also applies brake pressure to a countering wheel to aid the process.
Ride and handling are further improved with a wider track to go with the double-joint spring-strut suspension at the front and multi-link rear suspension at the rear. The X3’s optional Electronic Damping Control automatically adjusts the firmness of the shock absorbers to suit the situation.
Driving the turbo X3, acceleration is robust, ride is comfortable, and handling is determined as ever. Even though X3 weighs over 4000 pounds, it goes briskly when you pin the pedal. Acceleration to 60 from rest is quoted at 5.5 seconds.
The interior is all business—minimal frills. More spacious than before, it uses the revised fourth-generation iDrive system, introduced with the current 7-Series sedan. New features include the ability to read emails and text messaging aloud.
BMW is allowing X3 buyers to custom order and monitor build progress online in the X3’s new hall at the Spartanburg, South Carolina factory (where all BMW X-Series vehicles are now built). Customers can also take delivery at BMW’s Performance Center, right across from the factory.
Pricing starts at $37,625 for the normally aspirated xDrive28i and $41,925 for the turbocharged xDrive35i.
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