The new BMW X3 comes with a host of improvements over its predecessor, most notably for fleet operators a steep reduction in CO2 emissions from 172g/km to 149g/km (or 147g/km for auto).
This means official figures of 50.4mpg compared with the previous model’s 43.5mpg, yet it is also faster, up 0.4secs to 8.5secs.
It’s a far more competitive sector than when the X3 arrived in 2003 – while it was always up against the Land Rover Freelander, it is now fighting for sector share with the likes of the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60.
Brian Cox, product manager for the X series, said the brand hopes for a 17% share of the segment, while 4800 units are expected to sell in the first 12 months.
BMW has kept the range simple with one 2.0-litre 184hp diesel engine available in six-speed manual and eight-speed auto transmission. An M-Sport version will start production in April next year.
BMW has achieved a £115 drop in list price for the car, while adding standard equipment including leather upholstery, front and rear parking sensors and its central console iDrive controller. It’s also 83mm longer, 2.8mm wider and fractionally taller than the outgoing X3, which means there is 20mm more space for front and rear passengers, says Cox.
A popular criticism of the previous X3 was bad ride quality, due to BMW’s notion that trendy buyers would want a sporty feel, which meant a far-too-firm suspension. This was duly noted, and the new car is much improved on this front. The engine is also responsive and the eight-speed auto makes its way through the gears effortlessly.
Handling isn’t bad either, although body roll around corners isn’t as well controlled as could be expected.
The interior is everything you expect of a BMW – on a long European journey, the iPod function kept me easily occupied and seats were comfortable, although the leather seats would have been less so in sub-zero temperatures if it weren’t for the efficient heated-seat button.
As the most environmentally car in the sector, BMW stands up against its rivals. It has the lowest CO2 at 147g/km, with the notably higher Volvo XC60, at 179g/km (for auto), as the next best thing. It’s also class-leading for RVs at 45%, with its closest competitor the Audi Q5 at 42%. Unsurprisingly, then, its whole-life costs are the best at 63.1 pence per mile. This new X3 should definitely be the fleet driver’s compact 4×4 of choice.
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