BMW X3 Named Four Wheel Drive Car of The Year 2011

Amidst an impressive start on the international automotive markets, the new BMW X3 has rapidly become the shooting star in its segment. Winning the title of “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011” awarded through the specialist car magazine “Auto Bild Allrad” is current proof of the new BMW X3’s exceptionally high degree of popularity. The success within the reader survey conducted by Europe’s biggest-selling specialist journal for four-wheel drive cars is already the BMW X3’s second title victory this year. Just a few weeks ago, readers of the magazine “Off Road” voted the Game Vehicle “Off-road Vehicle of the season 2011”. With this particular double success, the brand new BMW X3 is quick in following the traces of its predecessor, which, in 2006 and 2007, was able to secure the readers’ vote of both periodicals twice in succession.

For the eleventh time now, readers of “Auto Bild Allrad” were asked to mention their favourite models from those on the German car market. In nine categories, there have been more than 130 four-wheel drive vehicles to choose from. The new BMW X3 promptly secured first place in the category “Off-road vehicles and SUVs which range from 25,000 to 40,000 Euros”. The associated title of “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011” was awarded during a festive ceremony in Frankfurt on 24 March 2011.

Having a captivating design, a unique mixture of sportiness and efficiency along with the largest and many variable luggage compartment within the competitive environment, the BMW X3, that has been on sale in Germany since November 2010, all over again sets standards in driving pleasure, versatility and premium quality. Compared to the predecessor model, that BMW established the concept of the Sports Activity Vehicle in this segment, it provides a visible increase in space, even more efficient engines, optimum motoring comfort and a widened choice of innovative equipment features. Both at the front and at the trunk the brand new BMW X3 convinces through outstanding travel comfort along with a high-class ambience. Having a 550-litre loading capacity, which can be increased to at least one,600 litres, and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, the vehicle’s carrying capacities also set new benchmarks for that segment.

In the spring of 2011, the engine portfolio for the new BMW X3 will comprise two petrol engines and 2 diesel engines with a power output which range from 135 kW/184 bhp to 225 kW/306 bhp. Depending on the engine variant, the brand new BMW X3 features an eight-speed automatic transmission either as standard or being an option. The still unique, intelligent four-wheel drive system xDrive has been optimised even more. Electronically controlled power distribution ensures not only supreme traction and maximum road stability on slippery surfaces, but also superior dynamics on the road, thus providing that unmistakable driving pleasure that’s so typical of BMW. Moreover, the new BMW X3 shoots way ahead of competition because of a comprehensive choice of innovative equipment features, driving assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. For example, the new BMW X3 is the only model in its class to become optionally fitted having a Head-Up Display and provide in-car Internet access.