BMW unveils pictures of new-look X3 compact SUV towcar

by Damien Sharkov
For a so-called ‘luxury’ manufacturer BMW’s products are rarely self indulgent. Although stylish, the BMW X3 is very rightly renowned for its practicality. And now, the Bavarian SUV has now returned with a 2014 facelift.
Looks are a strong point for the X3 SUV as BMW has not made a habit of designing ugly cars. The X3 is a perfect balance between the angular and boxy Mercedes G-class and the loafer looking Porsche Cayenne.
Its LED front twin headlights with fog lamps are among the minimalist accented features on the otherwise classic, compact body. We’re in no doubt that the X3 is a beautiful car.
Its main drawback is its unimpressive speed, mustering just 190hp from its standard two-litre engine, compared to the Audi Q5 two litre’s 211hp and the Range Rover Evoque diesel’s staggering 240 hp.
Thanks to the new Twin Power Turbo diesel engine, the X3 is capable of impressive fuel efficiency of 60.1mpg, while retaining CO2 emissions at 124g/km.
Once again the X3 gives Audi a reason to be envious, with the Inglestad manufacturer’s Q5 counterpart managing 154g/km at the least.
This may bode well for towing however, as a lot of BMW’s time and money has gone into improving fuel efficiency and comfort.
The interior is highly customisable with four different upholstery colours and four new interior trims. In terms of elegance it might just have the edge over the towing favourite Nissan Qashqai.
As for towing performance, the weight is yet to be confirmed, but if previous incarnations of the X3 are anything to go by we are looking at a kerbweight in the range of 1,660 kg – 1,850 kg. By comparison, the heaviest Qashqai does not exceed 1,518 kg.
This means that the new Beemer would be able to tow at least 1,400kg (based on an 85% match), meaning most single-axle caravans will be fair game.
Fans of the BMW X3 will have to wait until June to find the compact SUV in dealerships. Prices start at £30,990.
In the meantime, for interior and exterior pictures, click on the slideshow below:

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