New BMW X3 and X4 unveiled – The details

The BMW X3 and X4 SUVs have been updated – including new range-topping M models – and these will be coming to South Africa.

A new look is provided by a redesigned front and rear section in the X3, while the X4 adds an exclusive mesh kidney grille on top of this.

The rest of the refresh was focused towards updating connectivity and tech, with the introduction of a 48-volt hybrid starter generator that is now available with all engine options.

Local pricing for the new model ranges have not been confirmed, with the South African launch expected to happen in the fourth quarter of 2021.

What’s new

These new X models receive LED Matrix headlights as standard, a new underguard, 19-inch Y-Spoke wheels, and free-form tailpipes at the rear.

The M sports styling package will see more aggressive bumpers, red or blue brake calipers, and exclusive wheels fitted, too.

Inside, the new X3 and X4 adopt the centre console of the current BMW 4 Series, with a 10.25-inch iDrive 7 infotainment system across the range.

The improved standard interior also includes new Sensatec upholsteries, three-zone climate control, a redesigned centre console, and electroplated trim elements.

In terms of connectivity, every X3 and X4 now offer a “Black Panel” instrument cluster with a 5.1-inch colour display, a new generation of the BMW Maps programme, an integrated voice assistant, over-the-air software updates, and support for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

“In addition, the My BMW App is a universal interface to the vehicle,” said the company.

“It offers information on the state of the vehicle at all times and, depending on the options fitted, enables remote access functions such as vehicle location, locking and unlocking the doors, or recording the vehicle’s surroundings.”

Engines

Five engine options will be available for the new BMW X3, with two engine options for the BMW X4.

X3 variants are paired with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, while the X3 M40i and X4 models get the eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic gearbox.

The power outputs for the X3 diesel engines are as follows:

X3 sDrive 18d – 110kW
X3 xDrive 20d – 140kW
X3 xDrive 30d – 195kW

The power outputs for the X3 petrol engines are as follows:

X3 sDrive 20i – 135kW
X3 M40i – 285kW

The X4’s two derivatives then cover a power range from 110kW to 285kW.

A 48-volt mild-hybrid starter generator system is now fitted across the range, too, thus “ensuring even better driving performance with lower fuel consumption and increased driving comfort”, said BMW.

The energy saved by means of recuperation can also be used for an electric boost of up to 8kW, in addition to supplying the 12-volt on-board network.

M Competition

Along with the new “standard” X models comes two top-of-the-line performance variants – the X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition.

These vehicles are treated to M-exclusive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, kidney grilles, and badging – along with the most powerful inline six cylinder engine that BMW builds.

They also get the M brake system with 21-inch alloy wheels as standard, as well as adaptive M suspension that offers superior driving dynamics.

A high-revving 3.0-litre, six-cylinder engine generates a peak output of 375kW, while torque has been increased to 650Nm – a 50Nm improvement over the outgoing models.

As a result, the new X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition are able to cover the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.

Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but the optional M Driver’s package will see this raised to 285km/h.

Power is sent to all four wheels via an M xDrive system, while the M sports exhaust system supplies the engine note.

The interior also received a splash of upgrades, with new M accents, M sports seats, a Harmon/Kardon sound system, and extended Merino leather options as standard.

Additional M-exclusive elements come in the form of badging, trim colours, and a multifunction steering wheel.

BMW Live Cockpit professional also comes in all M models, which includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with M-exclusive graphics.