BMW and BMW of Cincinnati have many reasons to smile even in this competitive market environment. One key area is the launch of its new X3 luxury SUV later this year, one of BMW’s best-selling models. Demand for SUV models continues to maintain its explosive growth here in the U.S. and Ohio. In fact, BMW SUV sales have grown by 13.5% and account for 37% of BMW’s year-to-date volume. Plus, its X3 sales increased by nearly a third. The German automaker is responding to that demand for more BMW cars for sale by adding two extra production facilities in addition to Spartanburg, S.C. to manufacture its popular BMW X3 SUV for 2018.
What’s new for 2018
So what does the latest generation of the BMW X3 hold for its followers? Entering into its third generation, this latest model offers a new exterior, an M Performance model, new technology including gesture controls, and aerodynamic upgrades.If you’re a family that trailers a boat, a factory-installed trailer hitch will be offered for the first time.
Our Cincinnati auto shoppers will have two exciting trim levels available for the new X3: xDrive30i and M40i. The first model is equipped with a 2.0-liter twin-turbo inline-four producing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, the X3 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in six seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, according to BMW estimates.
If you select the M40i version you’ll receive the first M Performance variant for the X3. Look for this model by identifying a small M badge on its front fenders near the side air inlets. This high performance model, more powerful than the 2017 version, is equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six with 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s estimated by BMW to post 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds.
Both engines are paired exclusively to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is standard.
You’ll immediately identify the new 2018 X3 model due to the new LED accent lighting in a C-shaped pattern. These replace the older “angel eyes” found on past models.
You and your passengers will be traveling in luxury in this latest X3 model. If you’re at the helm of the xDrive30i version you’ll be surrounded by lots of chrome and silver accents. On the other hand, the M40i chooses different body color accents and big M-style ducts and vents. The interior dashboard is now equipped with a freestanding touchscreen with the new iDrive interface. To be more driver-focused, the center stack is tilted slightly toward them. New for the X3 are gesture controls that give you the ability to change the volume or perform other tasks directed at the 10.25-inch touchscreen. The X3 offers three-zone automatic climate control plus separate temperature controls for passengers in the back seat. If you want to let more of the outside air into the XE, you now can opt for a panoramic moonroof measuring 9.8-inches longer than before. You’ll have the option to set new ambient lighting within the interior. Your passengers also have the ability to individually adjust and recline the 40:20:40 seat backs.
And driver and passenger safety is of prime importance on the new 2018 X3 model. You’ll find a full array of BMW important safety features including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist with side-collision avoidance, front-collision warning with city-collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alerts, and blind-spot monitors.
There’s no shortage of tech involvement either on the X3. The SUV is integrated to BMW Connected apps for iOS, Android, and wearables like the Apple Watch and Samsung Gear S2 and S3. You can even check your fuel level courtesy of Amazon Echo. Technology will even ease your parking problems with BMW’s trick remote camera view and ParkNow service, which uses historical data to map open parking spots
Here in Cincinnati, we’re expected to see these new 2018 models roll into our showroom in November.
Take a look at our showroom floor
While you eagerly anticipate the new 2018 X3 model, take a closer look at the 2017 X3 models on our showroom floor. If you’re in need of a stylish, fuel-efficient, family-sized, four-door, somewhat sporty, and comfortably designed vehicle, the 2017 BMW X3 at BMW of Cincinnati is for you. It continues to be one of the leading compact luxury SUVs on the market even though many refer to its as a tall sedan rather than an SUV.
Our 2017 X3 models offer a new iDrive interface with an updated optional navigation system. A cool feature—its integrated touchpad allows you to scrawl text and number inputs with your fingertips. It also comes standard with “Comfort Access” keyless ignition and entry, power lumbar adjustment and satellite radio. Passengers will also enjoy its wireless charging and a WiFi hotspot.
It’s no wonder that the X3 is so popular. Inside, it’s one of the most spacious compact luxury SUVs awash in handsomely crafted materials and thoughtful ergonomics. If you and your family require cargo space, the 2017 X3 offers the largest amount in its segment. Behind the rear seats you’ll gain 27.6 cubic feet, or a total capacity of 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded down.
Under the hood, our 2017 X3 models offer an impressive base turbocharged inline-4 engine with 240 horsepower propelling the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds. Or you can opt for a larger, turbocharged inline-6 producing 300 hp. The X3 xDrive35i posts 0 to 60 mph in just over five seconds, and is paired exclusively to the same 8-speed and all-wheel drive.
Our Ohio customers are driven to purchase the X3 due in part to its exciting driving experience. Owners enjoy its high seating position overlooking the traffic. They praise the X3 for its functionality and its comfortable ride. We invite you to visit our showroom to see our 2017 models until the exciting new 2018 models arrive this fall.