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BMW has launched the new BMW X3 xDrive18d, capable of 45.6mpg and with CO2 emissions of 165g/km, making it the firm’s most economical Sports Activity Vehicle.
BMW is quick to point out that the X3 xDrive18d, with its EfficientDynamics, has fuel consumption that is eight per cent less than the Auto Start / Stop-equipped Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4.
With its 143hp 2.0-litre diesel engine and six-speed manual gearbox, the X3 can still manage 121mph and reaches 62mph in 10.3 seconds.
The X3 xDrive18d comes in SE and M Sport specifications, both with the same levels of standard and optional equipment as the X3 xDrive20d variants, except there’s no auto option. The X3 range is now powered by a total of five different engines – one petrol and four diesel units.
The BMW X3 xDrive18d also has the lowest price of the range; the X3 xDrive18d SE costs £27,865 while the BMW X3 xDrive18d M Sport is £30,030.
Although BMW claims the BMW X3 xDrive18d has the lowest emissions in its class, the Subaru Outback diesel emits just 153g/km and can squeeze 48.7 miles out of a gallon – and it’s much cheaper, starting at just £21,490.
If you want an even lower emitting BMW 4×4, you may want to wait for the forthcoming X1; with the same 143hp engine as the X3 xDrive18d it’s expected to achieve 53.4mpg. The X1 is still based on the current 3 Series, so it won’t even be that much smaller.
