BMW launches first two-wheel drive X3
The X3 sDrive18d uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine with a choice of either six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, offering fuel consumption of 55.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 135g/km. Until now, the most efficient X3 was the sDrive20d, which returns 50.4mpg and emits 149g/km CO2.
Losing the four-wheel drive system also allows a lower entry price, of £28,580, undercutting the sDrive20d by £2,890. Most importantly, this allows it to be priced underneath the 133g/km two-wheel drive Evoque, which starts at £28,695. The X3 comes into the 21% Benefit in Kind tax band, one higher than the Evoque.
Equipment levels are the same as for the xDrive20d, including leather upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels and iDrive with a 6.5-inch screen in SE trim. It also shares the four-wheel drive X3’s 2,000kg towing limit, when fitted with the optional towbar.
The X3 sDrive18d is available to order starting this week, with deliveries due in October.