With production having commenced late last year for key export destinations, BMW has now revealed the South African market specifications for its all-new, locally assembled BMW X3.
Internally coded as the G45, the fourth-generation BMW X3 represents a substantial R4.2-billion investment into BMW’s Rosslyn Plant near Pretoria. This investment supports both traditional combustion engine models and the latest plug-in hybrid variants.
Expanded Electrification
The G45 X3, built exclusively in South Africa, is underpinned by an enhanced version of BMW’s CLAR platform. This iteration incorporates support for electrification, including both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations, although it does not feature a fully electric variant. The previously available iX3 will be succeeded by the production version of the Vision Neue Klasse SUV.
Diverse Engine Options
Unlike previous BMW petrol models, the new X3 has dropped the ‘i’ suffix from its petrol variants, a longstanding indicator of fuel injection technology. The initial South African lineup includes a selection of turbo-diesel, turbo-petrol, and plug-in hybrid options, with most variants offering the M Sport package as an upgrade.
Performance & Specifications
BMW has restructured the X3 range, with the xDrive 20d now serving as the entry-level model. Its 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine delivers 145kW and 400Nm, mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission operated via a new toggle switch. With a top speed of 215 km/h, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds. The mild-hybrid system provides an additional 8kW and 25Nm during brief bursts.
At the higher end, the xDrive 30e plug-in hybrid replaces the previous xDrive 30d. It integrates a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 19.7-kWh lithium-ion battery and a rear-mounted electric motor, producing a combined output of 220kW and 450Nm. This enables a top speed of 215 km/h and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds, while offering a purely electric range of up to 90 km.
M Performance Model – The M50
The flagship M50 model replaces the M40i and is equipped with a 3.0-litre straight-six turbocharged engine, supplemented by mild-hybrid technology. The combined power output reaches 293kW and 580Nm, with short bursts gaining an additional 13kW and 200Nm. It boasts an acceleration time of 4.6 seconds from 0-100 km/h, capped at an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Interior & Features
The new X3 introduces an array of advanced features, including a wireless smartphone charger, BMW’s latest Curved Display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch iDrive infotainment system, tri-zone climate control, and ambient lighting.
Pricing & Maintenance
Each model comes with a five-year/100,000 km maintenance plan. The official pricing is as follows:
- X3 xDrive 20d – R1 136 417
- X3 xDrive 20d M Sport – R1 186 417
- X3 xDrive 30e – R1 260 000
- X3 xDrive 30e M Sport – R1 310 000
- X3 M50 – R1 545 446
Conclusion
With its blend of traditional combustion, hybrid innovation, and cutting-edge technology, the all-new BMW X3 offers a refined driving experience. As production continues at Rosslyn, South African buyers can look forward to a premium, locally-built SUV that aligns with the latest advancements in the automotive industry.
Related article: Facelifted BMW iX Revealed: Sleeker Design, More Range & New M-Performance Model
