2018 BMW X3 debuts with 355-hp M40i

June 26, 2017

Following a few leaks over the weekend, BMW has unveiled the all-new 2018 BMW X3 today at BMW Plant Spartanburg, SC, where it will be produced alongside the BMW X4, BMW X5, and BMW X6. The third-generation 2018 X3 doesn’t deviate too far from the look of the past two models, but the big news is that its wheelbase has been stretched 2.2 inches to give it more interior room.

The 2018 BMW X3 arrives in November

On the outside, BMW X3 fans will easily recognize the 2018 X3, but there are some significant updates, like the new front fascia with its “three-dimensional” kidney grille and fog lights featuring a hexagonal design. The taillights also feature a three-dimensional look. Overall the look has a slightly more muscular appearance.

In addition to the stretched wheelbase, BMW also boasts that the 2018 X3 has a 50:50 weight distribution with its “meticulously honed chassis” and xDrive. The new Driving Dynamics Control toggle switch now also offers Adaptive Mode when the vehicle is equipped with Dynamic Damper Control in addition to configurations such as, ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes.

The big news is the introduction of the new X3 M40i, which marks the introduction of the first M performance model for the X3 lineup. The X3 M40i is powered by a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder with 355 hp and 369 lb-ft. of torque that propels the X3 from 0 to 60 mph in a quick 4.6 seconds. The six-cylinder is mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with Launch Control. M Aerodynamic kit with design elements finished in Cerium Grey Metallic. The X3 M40i also gets an M Sport exhaust system with Black Chrome tailpipe embellishers, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension with M Performance specific tuning. The X3 M40i can be equipped with the available Adaptive M Sport suspension.

The standard X3 will be the X3 xDrive30i with its 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder gasoline engine with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The 2018 BMW X3 xDrive30i reaches 60 mph in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph. A diesel powered X3 might join the lineup in the United States later and by 2020, a fully-electric X3 will be added as well.

Inside the 2018 X3 features a Human Machine Interface. In addition to the iDrive Controller fitted as standard, specifying the Navigation system Professional featuring iDrive 6.0 enhances the iDrive Controller with a 10.25” display with Touchscreen technology. The optional BMW Gesture Control, which debuted on the current BMW 7 Series, adds a unique way to interface with the X3. BMW Gesture Control allows numerous infotainment, communication, and navigation functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures.

The 2018 BMW X3 arrive in November.