New BMW X3 can be controlled via cell phone; see test – 09/30/2024 – Market

The BMW X3 sports utility vehicle reaches its fourth generation with an eye on the priorities of new consumers. The manufacturer announces greater energy efficiency and more connectivity, with advanced autonomous driving modes and even remote control via cell phone.

The recipe seems tailor-made for a user concerned about the environment and almost addicted to technological advances.

The reporter drove two versions of the new SUV. The M50 xDrive has a 3.0 turbo in-line six-cylinder engine, which delivers 404 hp. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h occurs in 4.6 seconds, according to the automaker. The simplest option uses the 2.0 four-cylinder turbo (211 hp).

The route of around 200 km in southern Germany included the famous autobahns (highways with no speed limits), more winding local roads and urban sections. The X3’s steering is very direct and responsive, and the adaptive suspension guarantees a good level of stability. All-wheel drive helps offset the effects of a high center of gravity.

As in other BMWs, it is possible to select engine, gearbox, steering and suspension responses on the panel, with settings focused on sportiness, efficiency or comfort.

The M50 version has respectable performance for a 2,055 kg car. The paddles behind the steering wheel allow manual shifting of the eight gears and a little more dynamism — and there is also the boost function, which offers extra acceleration for ten seconds. But at the end of the day, it’s still an SUV, even in Sport mode.

The 2.0 option feels the weight of the X3 much more. After all, the four-cylinder has practically half the power and torque to push a similar weight (1,930 kg).

Both configurations are considered mild hybrids: the 48-volt auxiliary system helps optimize performance, mainly by giving an additional push at the start of more vigorous accelerations. The M50 version also has a dynamic front grille, in which the fins can move to optimize airflow.

The efficiency of the level two autonomous driving system is impressive. The SUV has obstacle detection, lane assist and maintains speed and distance from the car in front as programmed. When the features are activated together, the X3 can drive without the driver’s intervention, including curves, access roads and, if requested by the driver, changing lanes.

During the test, the system performed flawlessly on highways and urban stretches, passing the ball to the driver on rare occasions. These were very sharp curves and very narrow local roads, with signs that were difficult to read for the car’s sensors.

The driver, however, still needs to keep his hands on the steering wheel. If you don’t do this, the system turns off after some visual and audible alerts. BMW has not yet equipped the X3 with its Level 3 autonomous system, which allows it to be hands-free.

In some parking maneuvers, the driver can drive the X3 without being behind the wheel, using the cell phone as a remote control. You can move the model forward or backward at low speeds, which is very useful for getting in and out of the car in those tight spaces in shopping malls.

The X3 also has a very responsive voice assistant. Developed based on Amazon’s Alexa, the system was efficient in executing several commands, such as changing driving modes and adjusting the air conditioning. Just say “Hello BMW” and “talk” to the car.

The cabin has the elegant finish expected from this category, but the internal LED lighting is a bit over the top. The colors can be chosen by the driver or alternate according to the driving mode.

The new generation of X3 relies on a design described by the brand as “monolithic”. There are few creases in the bodywork: only a few more essential lines are highlighted continuously, creating this impression of a single block, which, in fact, gives it a more robust look.

The SUV is 34 mm longer (4.75 m) and 29 mm wider (1.92 m), with the wheelbase maintained at 2.86 m. Only the height has decreased, losing 25 mm to improve aerodynamics.

Acoustic insulation could be better, as body roll noise invades the cabin to a degree a little higher than expected for a BMW.

In addition to the tested versions, the gasoline X3 is offered in plug-in hybrid configuration (303 hp combined). There are also diesel options, which will not be sold in Brazil.

The new generation of the SUV begins to be sold in Brazil in 2025, shortly after the highest volume markets for the model. The priorities are in Europe, North America and China — which will receive a version with an extended wheelbase, in line with local tastes.

Although it assembles most of its vehicles at the Araquari (SC) factory, including the third-generation X3, the updated model should first arrive in Brazil as an import.

BMW still does not have a decision on future national production. So far, the 2025 line has been manufactured only in the United States and South Africa.

The journalist traveled at the invitation of BMW