BMW X3

The new BMW X3 has undergone more than just a facelift - it seems that most of the internal organs have been updated too.

To be honest, in terms of looks, it is a case of �spot the difference� between the previous version and the new model, such is the subtlety of the change. The front end has a larger kidney-shaped grille than before and the bumper and spoiler have been slightly re-designed. The front fog lights are now integrated into the main bodywork and beneath, the spoiler is now colour-coded.

Changes to the rear included new LED light clusters and more body-coloured panels than before. However, unless you are an X3 �buff�, at first glance there is very little that has changed and that is no bad thing.

It is curious that although most of the X3s sit on 17-inch alloy wheels, the car looks to have a relatively low roofline. The driver sits tall behind the new multifunctional, rake and reach adjustable, three-spoke steering wheel but there is no shortage of headroom.

The X3 comes in two forms; the SE and the M Sport. It also has a choice of two petrol and three diesel engines, of which, all but the �28,560, 2.0d diesel unit benefit from revised 6-cylinder engines. The test car was the X3 2.5si in SE trim, which costs �30,485 and is the smallest petrol engine in the range. Had the test car been in M Sport trim it would have a price tag of �32,570. The other petrol option is the 3.0si. Saying that there are three diesels is a bit of a cheat because as well as the aforementioned 2.0d, the remainder are 3.0-litre units; the 3.0d and 3.0sd. Prices for the X3 top out at �38,175 for the M Sport 3.0sd but you do get a lot of car for the money.

Car Manufacturer	BMW
Car Model	X3 2.5Si SE
Body Type	SUV
Colour	Montego Blue
Performance [ Manufacturers Figures ]
0 - 62 mph	8.5 Seconds
Top Speed	130 mph
Transmission	6-Speed Manual
Fuel Type	Unleaded Petrol
Economy [ Manufacturers Figures ]
Urban	20.6 mpg
Extra Urban	36.7 mpg
Combined	28.5 mpg
Insurance Group	16
Euro NCAP Rating	TBA
Warranty	3-Year / Unlimited Mileage
provenance of article http://www.carpages.co.uk/bmw/bmw-x3-review-part-1-03-02-07.asp