(continued from above)
In 2004 BMW introduced a new concept to the market: the small, premium
Sports Activity Vehicle with all-road capability and unparalleled driving
dynamics. This first generation BMW X3 became a best seller in the BMW line - both
in the United States and in Europe. Through its lifecycle, over 600,000 original
X3s have been sold worldwide with 150,000 sold in the USA. Subsequently, several
competitors have entered the now hotly-contested segment.
Design
Conveys Elegance, Agility and Ruggedness
The design of the new BMW X3 conveys elegance, agility and ruggedness. Up
front, the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille and large headlight assembly
combine with a powerful-looking front apron and hood boasting six contour lines
sweeping down to meet at the kidney grill, giving the X3 a bold presence. The
twin round headlights combined with the round fog lamps form the triangular
light pattern that is characteristic of BMW SAV design. The upper edge of the
headlight assembly sports an accentuating chrome trim, creating the focused
design typical of BMW vehicles. BMW's signature "Corona Rings" are again
illuminated to function as the daytime running lights. When equipped with the
optional Xenon headlights, the Corona Rings and daytime running lights are
illuminated by bright white LEDs.
The profile of the new BMW X3 is also
characterized by a unique interpretation of typical BMW X design features.
Powerfully flared wheel arches and the short front and rear overhangs emphasize
the robust character of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. The dynamic appearance of
the silhouette is accentuated by three characteristic lines. The new BMW X3's
brand-typical upper contour line at door handle level rises steeply at first
within the front wheel arch area, then flows gently to the rear. Two additional
subtle lines follow this contour line above the wheel arches.
The rear is
characterized by horizontal lines, underlining the new BMW X3's robust
character. Precise lines and expressively modeled surfaces create attractive
light and shadow effects. The taillights, which are located far to the outside,
have a distinctive T-shape that is characteristic of the BMW X3. LED light bars
create a distinctive BMW night-time design signature.
Dimensionally,
compared to its predecessor the new X3 is a half-inch taller, 3.36-inches longer, 1.1-inches wider, and features a half-inch more
ground clearance. It rides on a wheelbase which is 0.6-inches longer, at
110.6 inches.
BMW X3 xDrive35i: Review (2/2)
