BMW Malaysia launches 2022 BMW X3; Priced from RM315,800

KUALA LUMPUR: Arriving in showrooms with a brand new look, improved cabin equipment, and an optimized drivetrain, BMW engineers have given its popular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) BMW X3 a comprehensive refresh to keep ahead of fresh new rivals in this competitive segment which right now is dominated by the Mercedes-Benz GLC.

This revised X3 gets sportier, more modern, and more digital features, but can it keep ahead of the Lexus NX when it arrives next month. Plus, you have the Volvo XC60 facelift which is priced from RM325,449 for the T5 Petrol which is just RM10,000 more than this revised X3.

At first glance, a redesigned front end and a revised rear section lend even clearer emphasis to the robust off-road look and sporty appearance of the third generation of the successful BMW X3. With the redesigned BMW kidney grille, headlights that are around ten millimeters flatter, and the new front apron, the BMW X3 looks almost like a new vehicle.

More strikingly shaped, especially in the upper area, the BMW kidney grille is larger than before and now comprises a single-piece frame.

The significantly improved range of standard equipment now also includes sports seats with upholstery featuring a new generation of Sensatec as well as automatic air conditioning with 3-zone control, which allows separate temperature settings for the driver and front passenger as well as separate climate control at the rear.

This latest version of BMW X3 arrives in two petrol variants which is the sDrive20i and xDrive30i. They are also offering a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, the xDrive30e. The previous petrol engine is still in use for the sDrive20i and xDrive30i which is the four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine capable of a maximum output of 184hp and a peak torque of 300 Nm for the former, and 252hp with a peak torque of 350Nm for the latter.

The BMW X3 sDrive20i which carries a price tag of RM315,800 accelerates from standstill to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 215km/h, while the xDrive30i with its RM358,800 selling price accelerates from standstill to 100km in 6.3 seconds with a top speed of 240km/h.

Transmission is offered to the BMW X3 sDrive20i in the form of an 8-Speed Automatic Steptronic with an Automatic Hold Function, while the BMW X3 xDrive30i is equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.

Alternatively, the new BMW X3 xDrive30e with a price tag of RM356,800 (this is RM2,000 cheaper than the petrol version) combines the range of an internal combustion engine (ICE) with a powerful electric motor and battery with a gross capacity of 12kWh to enable a range of up to 50 kilometers (WLTP) in all-electric mode.

A new range structure for the BMW X3 and BMW X4 ensures a greater focus on sportiness and "X-ness" as well as enhanced clarity through deliberate reduction. The M sports package and the familiar M variants are available as an alternative to the standard equipment enriched with high-quality X elements.

The Malaysian launch is just in time for the Hari Raya new car buying spree which has been happening year on year.

Also Read: All-new 2022 BMW X4 launched in Malaysia