BMW X3 2014 facelift revealed with design tweaks and more kit
Subtle styling tweaks and a new diesel engine for the facelifted BMW X3, on sale in June
BMW has given the second-generation X3 a fresh look for 2014, updating the engine range and making subtle cosmetic tweaks inside and out. The BMW X3 has been one of the most popular mid-size SUVs since its launch back in 2003, racking up more than one million sales globally.
Visually, the refresh has given the X3 a more grownup image, almost resembling that of a downsized X5. Changes include a new headlight design, bolder kidney grille, a revised front and rear bumper, along with a new alloy wheel design and tweaked side skirts.
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Viewed in profile and the X3 retains the subtly flared wheel arches and rising crease along the flanks. Inside, BMW reshuffled the centre console with a refreshed control cluster and added chrome and gloss-black inserts to the dash and lower section of the centre console. The manufacturer also now offers a wider variety of upholstery trim and exterior finishes, too.
BMW X3: new xLine trim level
A new xLine trim level joins the SE and M Sport options, marked out by metallic inserts in the bumpers, aluminium side cladding and bars in the air intakes, underguard protection at the front and rear and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the new model features exclusive leather upholstery, dark copper trim and a sport leather steering wheel. The new xLine trim commands a £1,500 premium over SE models.
BMW has made more significant changes under the bonnet with a newly developed and more efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine. The rear-wheel drive 148bhp sDrive18d variant delivers best-in-range economy, returning a claimed 60.1mpg with emissions of 124g/km. The other three diesel options, xDrive20d, xDrive30d and flagship xDrive35d all come with four-wheel drive as standard.
Power outputs range from 148bhp to 309bhp, with the option of either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission available depending on engine choice. BMW has also updated its EfficientDynamics package, adding stop/start technology, a coasting function and a brake energy regeneration system to help further boost economy.
BMW X3 2014 with ConnectedDrive technology
The BMW ConnectedDrive for the revised X3 has also seen a raft of new tech added. The iDrive Controller now has an integrated touchpad, there’s full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, anti-dazzle high beam assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, including lane departure warning, active cruise control with Stop & Go function and preventive pedestrian protection.
Sales for the refreshed X3 will begin in June, with prices starting from £30,990 for the entry-level sDrive18d in SE trim - an increase of £2,020 over the outgoing model.
