BMW X3 Pure Design Debuts With Rear-Wheel Drive

In most elements of the world, BMW sells the X3 completely with xDrive. Nonetheless, we had been shocked to see a rear-wheel-drive model debut in Mexico simply a few months in the past. The luxurious automaker has since expanded the provision of the RWD mannequin to South Africa. On high of that, there’s now a particular version primarily based on the two-wheel-drive X3 20.

BMW builds the X3 Pure Design regionally on the Rosslyn plant and begins off within the xLine trim. Beneath the hood sits the tried-and-tested B48 engine with a mild-hybrid setup. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 198 hp and 335 Nm (247 lb-ft) of torque, despatched completely to the rear wheels. It sprints from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in eight and a half seconds and tops out at 135 mph (218 km/h).

Though it’s primarily based on probably the most inexpensive X3 obtainable in South Africa, the Pure Design provides some welcome aptitude. Customary gear consists of an illuminated kidney grille, a panoramic glass roof, and electrically adjustable entrance seats. The upscale crossover rides on 19-inch wheels with run-flat tires and options aluminum-satin exterior accents.

Inside, patrons can select between black or espresso brown Veganza artificial leather-based. The X3 Pure Design additionally comes with a Harman Kardon surround-sound system and a wi-fi charging pad to maintain your cellphone powered up. Driver help tech corresponding to Park Help and Driving Help is included as properly.

BMW South Africa is asking R1,107,760.40, the equal of about $63,700 at present alternate charges. That makes it roughly $3,500 dearer than the usual X3 20 bought regionally. The lineup additionally consists of the sporty M50 M Performance variant, the 20d xDrive diesel, and the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid.

It will be nice if BMW introduced the rear-wheel-drive X3 to different markets. In any case, not everybody actually wants xDrive. Skipping the additional {hardware} couldn’t solely scale back the value but in addition shave off some weight, bettering gas financial system within the course of.