Terms of price it is not very far away from the old X5, although somewhat lower and 10 centimeters shorter. There is not a lot of mechanical complexity with the all-wheel drive, but all the more with electronical. No low range gearing, not a center differential, cross locks, nor strong abridged axles point more to a recreational off-road vehicle. Sports Activity Vehicle is this called from BMW. Thus, the X3 is more an increased estate car with not fully flat load floor and technique from the 3. And like this it drives. Except for the higher weight, which limits the driving fun with the smallest petrol engine, especially with automatic transmission. More than six cylinders are not available, making the most powerful diesel engine with its traction to a hot favorite.
Although the car is to appeal also to younger buyers, its design is more cautious, only the diagonal glassed rear sides remain as a special eye-catcher. About the utility of running boards can be worthy of debate. Unfortunately, also the divisible hatchback is reserved for the X5.
But it receives the new simplified wheel-drive system. The manufacturer sells the system not without reason to be particularly innovative. The middle multi-disc clutch couples front and rear axle only when necessary and with variable torque distribution. Instead of cross-blocking the electronic (ADB) put the brakes, e.g. in critical driving conditions also and specifically with trailer. 08/14