BMW’s third-generation X3 will bring new petrol engines as well as latest driver assistance and connectivity functionality when it launches this November.

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Up to 55kg lighter than its processor, the latest X3 will offer two updated diesels at launch – the 190hp 132g/km four-cylinder xDrive20d and straight-six 265hp 149g/km xDrive30d, which will be followed sooner after by a new xDrive20i engine variant, and the range-topping petrol model, the M40i – the first ever M Performance vehicle in the X3 line-up. Prices start from £38,800 OTR for the XDrive20, rising to £44,380 for the xDrive30d and £51,280 for the M40i.

All engines come with an improved eight-speed Steptronic transmission and updated xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

Three trim levels will be offered – SE, XLine and M Sport – with standard kit on the S including leather seats, Business Navigation and Park Assist with rear parking camera and three-zone automatic climate control plus the Driving Experience Control functionality, which lets the driver choose between various eco, comfort and sport modes.

Onboard tech includes the optional BMW Display Key seen on the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series, which can notify the driver of fuel levels and any service or maintenance work due, operate the heating and let them know if the windows and sunroof are closed.

Drivers can also opt for Professional Media system (standard with M Sport models and M40i) which brings touchscreen control and optional gesture control – as seen on the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series.

The X3 also enables connectivity with an increased number of devices to connect through BMW Connected, ranging from smartphones running iOS and Android operating systems via smart wearables like the Apple Watch and Samsung Gear (S2 and S3) to the Amazon Echo.

And BMW also offers Microsoft Office 365 users a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details thanks to the car’s built-in Microsoft Exchange function.

The third-generation X3 also introduces the new BMW CoPilot driver assistance systems, which include the Active Cruise Control and Driving Assistant Plus safety package, which brings Steering and lane control assistant, Lane Change Assistant and Lane keeping assistant with side collision protection.

Head-up display is also available and the latest X3 brings a standard built-in SIM card that enables drivers to use Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic locating and accident severity detection.

The new X3 is available from 11 November 2017

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