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.November 12, 2003
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This Week:

• Infiniti Introduces All-New QX56 Full-Size Luxury SUV

• The Minivan Formula

• Hyundai Names Newest SUV the Tucson

• BMW X3 Makes Official North American Auto Show Debut At South Florida International Auto Show

• Luxury Volkswagen Phaeton Arrives to Miami Auto Show - 'Represents Great Value in German Luxury Class'

• Toyota Announces $15 Million Expansion Of Facility In Erlanger, Kentucky

• Porsche sales up 85 percent in North America

• $400 Million Engine Plant Powers Holden's Global Drive

• Flagship Diesel Engine To Be Built At Dagenham

• Federal-Mogul Announces Joint Venture in Turkey

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BMW X3 Makes Official North American Auto Show Debut At South Florida International Auto Show

Prices start at $30,995

Photo: Automotive Intelligence
 

Dynamic performance is ensured by BMW's 2.5- and 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engines widely lauded for their outstanding refinement and performance. The X3 3.0i boasts 225 horsepower while the X3 2.5i delivers 184. Both models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission is available as an option.

The unique blend of traction and agility in the X3 is due in large part to the all-new xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which sets new standards for all-wheel-drive vehicles.

BMW's xDrive allows infinitely adjustable and fully variable distribution of torque front-to-rear. The system immediately recognizes any need for a change in power distribution and responds very quickly when driving on road, often before the wheels begin to lose their grip. As a result, the X3 responds instantly, but at the same time is able to feed optimum drive forces to the respective axle at any time when cornering, significantly minimizing both understeer and oversteer in the process.

The outstanding versatility of the new BMW X3 is by no means limited to the wide range of different road conditions and terrain on which this SAV demonstrates its agile and dynamic performance. In addition to typical BMW comfort and ergonomics, the X3 interior offers several unique and desirable features. Interior cargo rails (standard on the X3 3.0i, available on the X3 2.5i) facilitate an interior rack that can hold two bicycles. With the available Accessory Audio Input Adapter, a variety of music devices can be played through the audio system. The available two-piece Panorama Moonroof provides nearly 10 square feet of ambient light. In the middle of the dashboard, the driver will find the optional DVD-based navigation system with a wide-screen color monitor that flips up when required.

In developing the X3, BMW focused on active and passive safety. The front drive shaft extends through the oil sump - giving the X3 a very low center of gravity and reducing body roll in the process. With its intelligent distribution of power, xDrive keeps the X3 very stable and sure-footed even in fast bends, as one would expect of a BMW SAV. Should the going get tough, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) will intervene to help stabilize the vehicle. BMW's Hill Descent Control (HDC) is also available to drive down hills, even on loose ground or slippery surfaces. The X3, of course, includes BMW's Smart airbag technology featuring not only front and side airbags but also BMW's Head Protection System for both front and rear passengers. Rear side airbags are also available.

The X3 offers class leading handling and agility and innovative interior features. Its state of the art technology is focused on the enhancement of the driving experience, while its level of active and passive safety is second to none. The X3 Sports Activity Vehicle is a BMW through and through.

(November 7, 2003)