Author:
ROBIN ROBERTS
The first two-wheel-drive BMW X3 is being added to the range.
The new rear wheel drive BMW X3 sDrive18d is powered by a 143hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine, and available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, which lowers emissions and fuel consumption.
The BMW X3 sDrive18d emits 135g/km of CO2, and has a combined fuel consumption of 55.4mpg, making it the cleanest and most fuel-efficient model in the X3 range.
These figures allow the sDrive18d to occupy VED Band E, with a Benefit in Kind (BIK) company car taxation rate of only 21 per cent.
This impressive fuel economy doesn’t impact on performance with the 2.0-litre diesel engine developing 143hp, with a peak torque of 360Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, resulting in the BMW X3 sDrive18d accelerating from zero to 62mph in 9.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 121mph.
At just £28,580 OTR for the SE model, the X3 sDrive18d is £2,890 less than the xDrive20d.
With the exception of Hill Descent Control, reserved for four-wheel-drive models, the sDrive18d matches the standard equipment on the xDrive20d in every respect. SE models feature Auto Start-Stop, Drive Performance Control, 17-inch alloy wheels, Nevada Leather upholstery and BMW iDrive with a 6.5-inch colour screen.
M Sport models feature a host of sporty additions such as 18-inch alloy wheels, M aerodynamic bodystyling, Sport seats and Sport suspension, amongst other items.
The introduction of this new entry-level model sees the engine range for the BMW X3 expand to four diesels variants. The BMW X3 is a compelling proposition whichever powerplant is chosen thanks to its dynamic styling, luxurious quality and its sheer versatility. Folding down the rear seats increases boot space from 550 to 1,600 litres, while the BMW X3 sDrive18d can also be ordered as an option with a trailer coupling offering maximum towing capacity of 2,000kg.
Having redefined the sector with an unbeatable blend of driving dynamics, premium cabin design and the latest BMW ConnectedDrive technology, this latest addition to the model line-up builds on the BMW X3’s success, selling more than 74,000 units in the first half of 2012, a rise of 38.4 per cent on the same period last year.
You can see how it stacks up against rivals in our business car leasing guide and company car tax allowance table
