“Safety has always been a top priority at BMW and our vehicles have always done well in IIHS tests,” said Tom Baloga, Vice-president Engineering (US) for the BMW Group. “As well as the X3 will protect its driver and passengers in a crash we believe that it is even more important that the X3 has been engineered to help the driver avoid the crash in the first place.”

In addition to front, side and head protection airbags, the newest BMW X3 also include knee-protection airbags. Responsive handling, worthy of the Ultimate Driving Machine is further enhanced with Dynamic Stability Control and xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. An available head-up display helps keeps the driver’s eyes on the road.

The BMW X3 is available with BMW AssistTM which includes the industry’s first enhanced Automatic Collision Notification system, developed in cooperation with the William Lehman Injury Research Center in Miami, FL. In the event of a severe collision an assessment of the risk of severe injury, determined using a sophisticated set of algorithms assessing crash data, is transmitted as part of the automatic collision notification call placed to the BMW Assist emergency call center. This helps first responders to be better prepared for those first critical moments after arriving at an accident scene.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the frontal offset crash test, “Dummy movement was well controlled… Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.”

After the side impact test IIHS noted that for both the driver and rear seat passenger, “Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.” For head protection for both the driver and rear passenger the Institute found that, “The dummy’s head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side curtain airbag that deployed from the roof.”

The IIHS describes their roof strength test as follows, “To measure roof strength, a metal plate is pushed against one corner of a vehicle’s roof at a constant speed. The maximum force sustained by the roof before 5 inches of crush is compared to the vehicle’s weight to find the strength-to-weight ratio. This is a good assessment of vehicle structural protection in rollover crashes.” The BMW X3 achieved a strength-to-weight ratio of 4.69, which is higher than many of its competitors.

The second-generation BMW X3 went on sales in December 2010 and has become a sales hit. Sales of the X3 in the US this year-to-day are 24,261 to the end of November. This represents a stunning 364% improvement over X3 sales over the same period of 2010.

The BMW X3 is one of three finalists for North American Truck of the Year.

[Source: BMW ]

Premiering Tuesday, November 1, 2011 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on National Geographic Channel, Ultimate Factories: BMW X3 will be the second time NGC has featured a BMW built exclusively in South Carolina. In 2007, BMW’s Z4 Roadster, also built at the South Carolina factory until 2008, was featured on Ultimate Factories.

National Geographic Channel spent almost two weeks at the BMW factory in early June producing and filming the new program. “Once again, BMW was very pleased to welcome the National Geographic Channel into our plant. We are proud to show people all over the world the quality and craftsmanship of BMW X3, X5 and X6, built exclusively for over 130 markets around the globe,” said Josef Kerscher, President, BMW Manufacturing.

Currently, the new BMW X3, which began production in South Carolina in September 2010 and went on sale in the U.S. in early 2011, has become a bestseller for the company – with nearly 80,000 vehicles sold globally in 2011.

In 2008, BMW announced a $750 million investment in its South Carolina operation to expand the factory by 1.5 million square feet to build the new BMW X3. The company is projecting over 270,000 BMWs will be produced in South Carolina in 2011.

[Source: BMW ]

Achieving the best rating in the Euro NCAP crash test is proof of the very high level of the safety concept developed for the BMW X models. The new BMW X3 boasts an extremely stable body structure, and the forces exerted on the vehicle in a collision are deflected along precisely defined load paths and absorbed by generous deformation zones. Consequently, the passenger cell fulfils its function as a survival space even in serious collisions.

Standard safety equipment inside the new BMW X3 includes front, side and curtain head airbags that protect both the driver and the passengers from injury. Also standard are belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters for the front seats and ISOFIX systems in the rear for attaching child seats, as well as the option of deactivating the front passenger airbag. The restraint systems are controlled by the central safety electronics, which take into account the type and severity of an accident to trigger the most effective protective features in each case.

In their evaluation of the crash test results, the assessors concluded that the new BMW X3 provides a high degree of occupant safety in all seats. Its stable passenger cell provides comprehensive injury protection in a front-end collision for both the driver and the passengers, regardless of a person’s size and the position of their seat. Here the Sports Activity Vehicle was awarded outstanding ratings for the protection of children aged around three years or 18 months in the relevant-sized child seats. For its side impact protection, the BMW X3 likewise achieved the maximum available points.

The new BMW X3 earned an outstanding rating for its active safety features as well. The Sports Activity Vehicle comes as standard with the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC), which is linked to BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. Thanks to its wide-ranging functions, including Braking Assistant, Cornering Brake Control and the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Dynamic Stability Control ensures easily controllable and secure handling even in challenging driving situations. Further standard features on the BMW X3 include a Tyre Defect Indicator that warns the driver in good time of a loss of pressure in any individual wheel.

The test procedure of the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) ranks as one of the most rigorous tests worldwide to which new vehicles are subjected. The Euro NCAP test is a benchmark for crash safety recognised throughout Europe by governments, automobile clubs and consumer associations. The test profile includes, among other aspects, a frontal collision, a side-on crash and a side impact against a steel post. Since 2009, electronic safety features have also been taken into account, along with additional injury risks in a wide range of collisions.

Last year the Munich premium automobile manufacturer was distinguished by the safety testing institute Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) with a special award for the BMW Assist Advanced eCall, the advanced emergency call system with automatic localisation and accident severity detection which is also available for the BMW X3.

[Source: BMW ]

Autumn 2011 will see additions to the model range in the shape of the BMW X3 xDrive20i and the BMW X3 xDrive35d. All-new engines featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology endow both models with a further optimised performance to fuel consumption ratio. Added to which, the BMW X3 exudes even more appeal thanks to a fine-tuned range of standard equipment and special options.

From autumn 2011, the new BMW X3 will come with a choice of three petrol engines and three diesel units spanning an output range of 135 kW/184 hp to 230 kW/313 hp. An exceptionally diverse portfolio of power units thus joins forces with the SAV’s outstanding agility – with intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard – and enhanced ride comfort. Thanks to a comprehensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology, including the Auto Start-Stop function that can be combined with both the six-speed manual and the eight-speed automatic transmission, the BMW X3 also achieves top ratings in its segment for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

BMW X3 xDrive20i: lively power curve and optimised efficiency courtesy of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

In autumn 2011 the BMW X3 Drive20i will be available as the new entry-level model among the petrol variants. Its newly developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit blends a hallmark BMW sporty power curve with exceptionally high efficiency. The new engine’s BMW TwinPower Turbo technology includes a turbocharging system based on the twin-scroll principle, along with High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. Here the new powerplant takes its lead from the technology package of the 225 kW/306 hp multi-award-winning six-in-line unit of the BMW X3 xDrive35i.

Thanks to the use of aluminium, the powerplant of the BMW X3 xDrive20i is particularly light in weight and reaches its peak output of 135 kW/184 hp at 4,800 rpm. Maximum torque of 270 Newton metres is already available at 1,250 rpm. The new BMW X3 xDrive20i features a six-speed manual gearbox as standard with the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission. In both versions, the standard range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes, among other features, the Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches the engine off when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in congestion in order to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption when idling.

Top athlete with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology: new six-cylinder diesel in the BMW X3 xDrive35d.

A new edition of the world’s sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine will deliver a particularly enthralling experience of driving pleasure in the new BMW X3 xDrive35d from autumn 2011. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology drums up peak output of 230 kW/313 hp, reached at 4,400 rpm, making the BMW X3 xDrive35d the most powerful variant in the SAV’s model range. With maximum torque of 630 Newton metres on tap from as low as 1,500 to 2,500 rpm, the new diesel engine also ensures impressive pulling power.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology of the new all-aluminium unit comprises further advanced two-stage turbocharging (Variable Twin Turbo) and latest-generation common-rail direct injection. At low engine speeds the small turbocharger is deployed. The air it compresses is first fed past the larger turbocharger to the combustion chambers, ensuring lossless development of charge pressure. During heavier throttle application, an electronic controller of the bypass unit engages the larger turbocharger. Extremely spontaneous response is thus ensured by a power curve to match the relevant requirement. The injection system features precision solenoid injectors and maximum pressure of 1,800 bar to guarantee particularly efficient and clean combustion. The BMW X3 xDrive35d comes equipped as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission including Auto Start-Stop.

Greater variety in the equipment range too: the BMW X3 continues along its path of success.

Thanks to its extended range of engines, the new BMW X3 now offers an unprecedented blend of superior driving characteristics and exemplary efficiency. It also scores with its versatile luggage compartment, providing as it does between 550 and 1,600 litres of space, as well as extremely high-quality and innovative equipment features. The new BMW X3 is the only model in its class, for example, to offer the option of a Head-Up Display and in-car internet access.

For autumn 2011, an already diverse range of standard equipment and special options will be further boosted by a number of specific enhancements. The convenience of the Auto Hold function, for example, will be augmented by the automatic release of the electromechanical parking brake. The range of mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive will likewise be extended. In conjunction with a navigation system, the Real-Time Traffic Information function will also be available for the new BMW X3 from autumn 2011. This innovative system provides particularly accurate and up-to-the-minute congestion alerts as well as information on the traffic situation on motorways, country roads and selected city routes. It allows the driver to take into account any potential loss of time resulting from a diversion when recalculating the route. As an added option on the interior design front, the trim elements on the instrument panel can now also be specified in High-gloss Black.

With its new engines and enhanced equipment range, the BMW X3 has the perfect prerequisites to perpetuate its success story. The extraordinary popularity of the SAV model is expressed not only in consistently strong demand, but also through positive feedback from recent reader surveys. In the poll for the “Four-Wheel-Drive Car of the Year 2011” conducted by car magazine Auto Bild Allrad, the new BMW X3 won from the word go. And that wasn’t long after readers of Off Road magazine had voted the Sports Activity Vehicle “Off-Roader of the Year 2011”.

[Source: BMW ]

For the beginning, the X3 gets a new set of light-alloy wheels available in numerous colors and combinations, both in 19 and 20 inch. The larger wheels are covered by 245 and 275 tires.

For better contact with the road and increased dynamics, the F25 X3 by Kelleners features a sports spring kit that lowers the car by 30 millimeters, and is available for 389 euro.

In the power department, Kelleners Sport brings the X3 xDrive20d from 184 horsepower to 218 hp, and from 380 Nm of torque to 450 Nm, all at a price of 1,299 euro. The top model, the xDrive35i receives a power increase from 300 hp to 367 hp and a maximum torque of of 480 Nm. Price for the power boost? 1,779 euro.

The X3′s appearance is also enhanced by Kelleners oval tailpipes made of stainless steel, carbon fiber interior trim, aluminum pedals and foot rest with Kelleners logo, a 3-spoke sport steering wheel, and many more customization options for the interior.

More details and photos will be released in the near future.

[Source: Kelleners Sport via BimmerToday ]

The malfunction may result in a loss of power steering.

The recall affects the X3 models built between April 27, 2011 and June 8, 2011, totaling 50 vehicles. The owners are being notified and the local dealerships will repair the control module free of charge.

Vehicle Make / Model: BMW / X3
Model Year(s): 2011

Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Mfr’s Report Date: JUN 28, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V341000
NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Potential Number of Units Affected: 50

Summary

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 X3 PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 27, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 8, 2011. A CONTROL MODULE IN THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) UNIT MAY MALFUNCTION, RESULTING IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE.

Consequence

SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES AT 1-800-525-7417.

Notes

OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

[Source: NHTSA via Autoblog ]

Donna DeLoach-Darby of Savannah, GA is the Grand Prize winner out of 82,981 entrants. DeLoach-Darby received a two-year lease on a BMW X3 and traveled to BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant on June 3-4 where she picked up her vehicle and participated in a two-day class at the automaker’s performance driving school along with ten additional first prize winners.

Get an inside look as they show off their driving skills at the Performance Driving School.

Performance Upgrades

Engine tuning and performance upgrades have a long tradition at AC Schnitzer. To be on the safe side however, we prefer not to extract the maximum possible power but instead ensure greater robustness, which means a longer life of the engine. Many of our diesel performance upgrades are therefore designed for an increase in torque rather than an increase in horsepower. Because torque is what you feel when for example you’re “pressed back in the seat” on pulling away.

For engines and performance upgrades, we offer a warranty of two years from the date of first registration, up to a kilometre reading of 100,000 km (for M-vehicles, two years up to a kilometre reading of 60,000 km) on all components excluded from the BMW warranty.

Exhaust

Even at a standstill, the X3 by AC Schnitzer shows off its assets – and not only when the bonnet is open. For the 6-cylinder petrol models 2.8i and 3.5i, an AC Schnitzer sports exhaust made of stainless steel is currently in development. This improves response and provides that special sonorous sound. The chromed “Racing” tailpipe trim sets the finishing touch to the exhaust system.

For purely visual enhancement, this tailpipe trim is also available as a stand-alone accessory for diesel variants.

Individualists want to fly high, and to ensure that the agile X3 by AC Schnitzer remains firmly planted on the ground, the Aachen engineers have come up with a suspension spring kit for the optimum combination of sports performance and driving comfort

The aerodynamic kit for the new X3 includes a striking front spoiler, the rear roof spoiler and the AC Schnitzer protective film for the rear skirt.

The interior

The AC Schnitzer sports airbag steering wheel, currently in development, provides that sports car flair and safety in the interior. As well as the sports steering wheel, further unique “inner values” of the X3 by AC Schnitzer catch the eye.

Sporting accents are set by the AC Schnitzer aluminium gear knobs in anodized silver/chrome or “Black Line“/chrome, or with digital gear display, and the “Black Line“ aluminium cover for the BMW-specific i-Drive system controller.

Further impressive design elements such as the AC Schnitzer aluminium pedal set, an illuminated leather gear knob, and the AC Schnitzer velours foot mats, make the fully fitted X3 totally unmistakeable.

The Wheels

Such a special appearance must include the right wheels and tyres. This was also our viewso we have given the X3 with BiColor a choice of Type VIII forged racing rims in 22 inch, or Type VII racing rims in BiColor or silver in 22 inch. One-piece rims of Type VI (BiColor), Type VIII (BiColor) and Type IV (BiColor or Silver) are also available in sizes 18, 19 or 20 inch. Forged alloy wheels Type V in 20 inch are of course also part of the extensive range.

In the latest project BMW will transmit crash data directly to a trauma center. In case an accident happens involving a BMW equipped with enhanced Automatic Collision Notification (eACN) in the vicinity of the Ryder trauma center in Miami the crash data would be displayed in real time in the trauma resuscitation area.

This technology allows the trauma surgeon to be better prepared in respect to diagnosis and treatment. Further, the WLIRC just started a field trial funded by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and supported by BMW to understand and show the importance of advanced telematics data in improving dispatch and field triage decision.

“This marks the next step in the important collaboration between the BMW Group and WLIRC that began in 2001,” noted Klaus Kompass. “Our collaboration resulted in the milestone development of BMW’s enhanced Automatic Collision Notification system. Now first responders to a crash scene can arrive better prepared already knowing the likelihood of severe injury. At BMW we are constantly working on active safety systems that help the BMW driver avoid a crash, should one occur to reduce the likelihood of injuries, and if the people inside are injured, to support the best rescue. We know that every second counts.”

“The collaboration between BMW and the William Lehman Injury Research Center (at the Ryder Trauma Center) continues to benefit the team of engineers and doctors, working side by side in crash investigations, to improve the diagnosis and treatment of severely injured crash occupants,” noted Dr. Augenstein.

The WLIRC and BMW have collaborated on research and development of the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification system since 2001. For the last five years the WLIRC and BMW have been engaged in real world accident research in the US in order to aid work being done by BMW Group engineers in Munich, Germany where ongoing accident research has been conducted for over 35 years.

Today, this ground-breaking technology is available in all BMW’s equipped with BMW AssistTM. In a severe collision not only will BMW Assist transmit the vehicle’s location to the emergency call center, it also provides an assessment of the risk of severe injury to the driver or passengers, through a specially-developed algorithm, in order to better prepare first responders before they arrive on scene and support their triage decision. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the decision to take injured occupants to a trauma center rather than to a regular hospital if telematics suggest the risk of severe injury, can make a significant difference in treatment, recovery and survival.

“Knowing not only the precise location of a crash but also the potential for life threatening injuries immediately will propel emergency services to the scene armed with the necessary life-saving tools,” states Dr. Augenstein. “When fully implemented, a trauma system based on enhanced Automatic Collision Notification will save thousands of lives. BMW has taken a leadership position in this effort. BMW is due a tremendous amount of credit for spearheading this life-saving safety initiative.”

BMW of North America today announced the winners of its “X3 Matchup” contest which was launched during this year’s Super Bowl XLV broadcast. The contest, designed to highlight more than 10 million ways a new BMW X3 could be customized, encouraged viewers to guess the configuration of the vehicle featured in an advertisement that ran during the game. Donna DeLoach-Darby of Savannah, GA is the Grand Prize winner out of 82,981 entrants.

DeLoach-Darby will receive a two-year lease on a BMW X3 and will travel to BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant on June 3-4 where she will pick up her vehicle and participate in a two-day class at the automaker’s performance driving school along with ten additional first prize winners.

“We congratulate Donna and the rest of the X3 Matchup winners on creating the closest version of the X3 featured in our Super Bowl advertisement,” said Trudy Hardy, Manager BMW Marketing Communications and Consumer Events. “With over 10 million unique configurations possible, this is quite an accomplishment.”

Unveiled in January, the all-new BMW X3 builds on the success of its first generation counterpart, offering drivers increased space, functionality, efficiency and comfort. It is the first BMW X model to be equipped with electro-mechanical power steering as standard equipment and also offers the option of Dynamic Driving Control and BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems.

The ten first prize winners are: Christopher Bailey (Ballston Lake, NY); Sergio Cerda (Hayward, CA); Michael DesJardins (West Valley City, UT); Marie Drummond (Helena, AL); Marla Eason (Duluth, GA); William “Terry” Hawthorne (Piedmont, SC); Ankur Jain (Olathe, KS); Ruth LeJeune (Monroeville, PA); Teresa Moody (Bay Minette, AL) and Rozita Smith (Detroit, MI).

[Source: BMW ]

From mid November 2010, sportsmen and women have had the opportunity to register for the BMW X3 Games. Over 15,000 registrations are proof of the huge interest in this competition. A draw determined the 52 teams who will now do battle for overall victory until Saturday.

Versatility is the trump card at the BMW X3 Games: six challenging disciplines await the competitors. On Thursday they must demonstrate their talent running and on the golf course. Skiing and driving ability tests at the wheel of the BMW X3 are scheduled for Friday. On the final day, mountain biking and sailing will ultimately decide the overall winners.

The competitors must also demonstrate their creativity. In cooperation with Samsung, a partner of the BMW X3 Games, they must take photos dealing with the subjects of joy, dynamics, challenge and aesthetics as part of their “creative task”. The jury will reward the most impressive image in each field.

However, the attractive prize is not all the competitors in the BMW X3 Games can look forward to. The event also features some captivating venues. Whether skiing on the slopes of Mont Blanc or sailing on Lake Geneva: the BMW X3 Games is guaranteed to offer the lucky sportsmen and women an experience to remember.

Partners of the BMW X3 Games are: Sixt, K2, Kempinski, Peak Performance and SAMSUNG.

[Source: BMW ]

This engine enables the X3 xDrive35i to sprint from 0 to 60mph in just 5.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 150mph when fitted with the optional Sport Package.

The new model was built under the codename F25 and while maintaining the “boxy” look, the 2011 X3 is a half-inch taller, 3.4 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider than the current model, aligning in size with the first generation BMW X5. The X3 sports flared wheel arches and more aggressive design cues. The dynamic side creases around the fenders are becoming a common trait in recent models.

The turbocharged, X3 xDrive35i has an MSRP of $41,925, including $875 Destination & Handling fee. Both models feature a standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

Let’s see the video review by CNET.

On April 1st, Martha Stewart announced that Jody Lunsford, a local Virginia crafter and self described “felt fanatic” from Roanoke, Virginia, was the winner of the show’s ‘Simply ReMarthable™ Contest,’ a nationwide search for the most remarkable talent. After culling through over 3,500 entries from everyday chefs, crafters, creators and innovators, Martha Stewart felt that Lunsford’s submission stood above all the rest.

To reward the talented crafter, Stewart handed out as the gran prize the BMW X3 designer by her.

Joe Wierda, BMW’s X3 Product Manager, said: “Every BMW X3 in the world is made at our Spartanburg, SC plant and it was honor to have Ms. Stewart tour the facility to get an inside look at how they are built from start to finish. We were thrilled to take part in the Simply ReMarthable™ contest and are sure that Ms. Lunsford will get many years of enjoyment from this one-of-kind vehicle customized by someone who truly appreciates the importance of excellence and high standards when it comes to the world of design.”

Congratulations to the lucky winner!

Among the winners, the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i, the second generation mid-size Sports Activity Vehicle that was unveiled in late 2010. While the first generation X3 has been highly criticized for its lack of premium interior design, the new X3 comes to market to correct some of the shortcoming of the first model and to also set a new standard for the inside cabin quality. For more information on the new X3 interior design and features, here are a few of our previous articles: BMW X3 Test Drive, X3 Interior Designer and First Look BMW X3.

Ward’s 10 Best Interiors Winners:

• Audi A8
• BMW X3 xDrive35i
• Chevy Cruze 2LT RS
• Dodge Charger Rallye Plus
• Ford Focus Titanium
• Honda Odyssey Elite
• Hyundai Elantra Limited
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit
• Kia Optima EX
• Volvo S60

And the X3 review by the Ward’s editors:

The X3 xDrive35i successfully blends a black-and-cream color scheme with tastefully executed wood trim on the dashboard, center console and door panels.

Superb fit-and-finish, fold-flat seating and ample space for five occupants make the $52,025 X3 a worthy contender in the luxury cross/utility vehicle segment.

And the iDrive controller also has become easier to use and more intuitive, now allowing drivers simple access to the entire owner’s manual, all visible on the central display.

From BMW’s classic competitors’ pool, only Audi has been nominated as a winner in interior design with the new A8 model.

[Source: Ward's ]

While we don’t entirely agree with some of their initial comments, it is always fascinating to hear the reviews of journalists that have a chance to drive a wide range of vehicles.

The engine and ZF transmission get a praise as well: “that 2 liter diesel and the 8-speed automatic are a creamy combination.” But let’s have a look.

At the recent BMW X3 launch in Spartanburg, BMW announced a $5 million allowance for its marketing budget for the new X3 to encourage customers to order the exact vehicle they want instead of buying an already-built model from a dealer’s lot.

To make the process even more fun for its customers, BMW installed cameras along the production lines and the owners can watch their cars being built via the internet. Back in January, BMW launched an online video portal that will show customers footage of their customized X3 being produced at the company’s plant in Spartanburg, SC.

Customers can view the footage by creating a My BMW account on bmwusa.com and entering their X3 order number or VIN. Using seven cameras in BMW’s South Carolina plant, BMW deliver X3 customers with video that tracks their vehicle through the various stages of final assembly. The video does not have an expiration date, giving consumers round-the-clock access to the assembly footage, and the video can also be downloaded and shared with interested friends and family members.

Prior to its launch, in early 2010, BMW of North America hosted several events at the Spartanburg Delivery Center in South Carolina where BMW client advisors from around the country gathered to not only test the new X3, but also to compare it against its competitors.

The 2011 BMW X3 competes in a segment with the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLK and even the Lexus RX. With the first generation running its lifecycle in 2010, the mid-size premium SUV segment was dominated by the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLK.

In a recent conversation with a BMW official, we learned that BMW sees the GLK as stronger opponent than Audi’s Q5. The GLK with its boxy look, but attractive dimensions, has been a major seller for Mercedes-Benz USA with number of units sold nearing 2,000 every month.

But now that the second-generation $36,750 2011 BMW X3 has arrived, GLK350 4Matics and Audi Q5s have lost some of their sheen. X3 sales jumped from the first-generation’s 351 in February 2010 to 1987 a year later. That’s 12.1% of all BMW USA sales in February, another sign that the new X3 will play a major role for BMWUSA in the upcoming years.

In February 2011, BMW sold 1,987 units of the new X3, Mercedes reported 1,853 GLK vehicles sold and Audi’s Q5 comes third with 1,539 units. Lexus RX, considered by many a competitor to the larger X5 and Q7, had a volume of 6567 units sold in the same month.

Graph by GoodCarBadCar

While first comprehensive comparison reviews are yet to come out (BMWBLOG will have one as well), we would like to share some ad-hoc photos of all these vehicles sitting side-by-side at the Performance Center in Spartanburg. Photos are courtesy of our friend and spy photographer Palbay.

For the eleventh time now, readers of “Auto Bild Allrad” were asked to name their favourite models from those available on the German car market. In nine categories, there were more than 130 four-wheel drive vehicles to choose from. The new BMW X3 promptly secured first place in the category “Off-road vehicles and SUVs ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 Euros”. The associated title of “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011” was awarded during a festive ceremony in Frankfurt on 24 March 2011.
With a captivating design, a unique combination of sportiness and efficiency as well as the largest and most variable luggage compartment in the competitive environment, the BMW X3, which has been on sale in Germany since November 2010, yet again sets standards in driving pleasure, versatility and premium quality. Compared to the predecessor model, with which BMW established the concept of the Sports Activity Vehicle in this segment, it offers a noticeable increase in space, even more efficient engines, optimum motoring comfort and a widened choice of innovative equipment features. Both at the front and at the rear the new BMW X3 convinces through outstanding travel comfort and a high-class ambience. With a 550-litre loading capacity, which can be increased to 1,600 litres, and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, the vehicle’s carrying capacities also set new benchmarks for the segment.

In the spring of 2011, the engine portfolio for the new BMW X3 will comprise two petrol engines and two diesel engines with a power output ranging from 135 kW/184 bhp to 225 kW/306 bhp. Depending on the engine variant, the new BMW X3 features an eight-speed automatic transmission either as standard or as an option. The still unique, intelligent four-wheel drive system xDrive has been optimised even further. Electronically controlled power distribution ensures not only supreme traction and maximum road stability on slippery surfaces, but also superior dynamics on the road, thus providing that unmistakable driving pleasure that is so typical of BMW. Moreover, the new BMW X3 shoots way ahead of competition thanks to an extensive choice of innovative equipment features, driving assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. For example, the new BMW X3 is the only model in its class to be optionally fitted with a Head-Up Display and offer in-car Internet access.

[Source: BMW ]

“Difference Event” translates into an event where BMW customers and not only, will have the opportunity to test the new X3′s competition as well. During the driving event, customers will be able to fairly assess the qualities of different premium sports utility vehicles.

Here is the description of the event as provided by BMWNA:

You’re invited to experience the difference when the all-new BMW X3 takes on the competition. It’s an event that will have you talking for weeks to come. Get behind the wheel of the exhilarating BMW X3 SAV®, and then, at the same event, get behind the wheel of one of its competitors – and experience the difference.

You’ll feel how the smooth power of a BMW engine, harnessed by the efficient 8-speed automatic transmission, stacks up against the competition. You’ll discover how xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system, helps keep you in control in virtually any conditions. To top it all off, you’ll enjoy the X3’s beautifully crafted interior and comfortable seating for up to five adults, with an additional 26 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s all part of this incredible one-day-only driving event.

As our thanks for participating in The BMW X3 Difference Event, you’ll be able to take advantage of an exclusive offer. Purchase or lease an all-new 2011 BMW X3 – and take delivery by June 30 – and you’ll receive a $500 gift card good toward any select BMW X3 vehicle accessories, such as a Luggage Rack, Lockable Roof Box, Apple iPhone® Snap-in Adapter, or Bicycle Lift System, excluding labor charges.

Don’t miss the chance to experience The BMW X3 Difference Event. While you’re at our BMW center, don’t hesitate to ask about other BMW models. Discover why BMW is The Ultimate Driving Machine®.

Spaces are limited for this event, so sign up now for your preferred driving time slot. To register, please visit bmwusa.com/X3Difference or call 1-866-905-4BMW (4269).

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The event sounds like a great opportunity for those of you that have been asking the eternal question: X3 vs. Q5 or GLK. If you’re going to attend the event, please feel free to let us know what your impressions were.

In the United States, the company reported 1,987 X3 units sold in February, 466 percent increase for the same month in 2010.

On Monday, the company announced their plants to invest an additional $100 million into its South Carolina operation due to a high-demand for X3 knocked-down “kits” destined for export.

According to Greenville Online, markets for the kits haven’t yet been announced.

The decision to export knocked-down X3s is purely a business decision, said BMW Manufacturing spokesman Max Metcalf.

The kits — with body parts built in Greer and with final packaging by the Syncreon logistics firm in its Duncan facility — would likely be sent to markets in which duties on finished products are unusually high or regulations allowing the finished goods into the market are complex, complicated and burdensome.

About 4,000 semi-knocked-down painted bodies will be shipped this year as kits, the company said.

The investment will be spent primarily on the facility and productivity, Metcalf said.

Currently no new employment is under consideration in conjunction with the decision to export kits as well as finished X3, X5 and X6 vehicles from the Greer plant.

The company is expected to release more details on the new investment shortly.

For the new X3 production, BMW Group has already invested $750 million in the South Carolina plant, its largest investment in South Carolina to date.