BMW has launched its X3 medium-sized SUV in rear-wheel-drive ‘sDrive18d’ guise. It is lower in price with lower CO2 output and higher fuel economy than before. X3 was only available only in ‘xDrive’ four-wheel-drive form, but now the new arrival gives buyers a more accessible option if the benefits of four wheel drive don’t apply.
The well-known 141bhp, 266lb.ft diesel engine is available in a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox, with CO2 and economy figures for the manual recorded at 135g/km and 55.4mpg which is14g/km and 4mpg better than the more powerful xDrive20d.
X3 will be available in SE and M Sport trim lines. SE models has features such as engine stop-start technology, Drive Performance Control, 17in alloy wheels, Nevada leather upholstery and BMW iDrive with a 6.5in colour screen.
It is available at £28,580. The entry-level sDrive18d is £3,000 cheaper than the existing range.