2011 BMW X3

The 2011 model of BMW X3 is offered in a couple of trims: xDrive28i and xDrive35i which are powered by a 3L inline-6 engine and 3L turbocharged inline-6 engine respectively. Standard features include Star-Spoke alloy wheels with all-season tires, halogen free-form headlights, 8-way power-adjusted front seats with 2-way manual headrests with driver seat memory, leather upholsteries, rear backrests with 40/60 splits, Automatic Climate Control, 12 speaker audio system, leather-wrapped steering, and many other features in the xDrive28i. 

The upper trim brings upgraded or added features which include Y-Spoke alloy wheels, Xenon Adaptive headlights with LED headlights, adaptive lights, chrome tailpipe, Fineline Sienna Wood trim, and leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with control buttons.

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Acknowledging all the attributes both the SUVs come fitted with, it’s an easy thing to tell that the xDrive35i makes more sense, it comes with a 3L turbo engine, more features, and better customization options. Costing 5 grand more than the standard trim, the extra dollars you spend remain justified.

The 2011 X3 is offered in 2 trims; the standard trim comes fitted with a 3L inline-6 engine, which is mated to an 8-Speed Automatic transmission combined and an AWD system. The engine generates 240 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, which helps the vehicle attain 60 mph from a halt in 7.4 seconds, covering a ¼ mile within 15.6 seconds. The base engine offers a satisfactory amount of power, which further combined with an AWD system\ helps the SUV work well in any given situation. It's inviting, smooth, and exhibits an admirable character.

The xDrive35i comes powered with a 3L turbocharged inline-6 engine which produces 300 horsepower and 300lb-ft. It covers 0 to 60mph in a mere 5.9 seconds, covers a ¼ mile at 14.4 seconds. Compared to the base engine, this engine feels superior and flaunts better performance figures. Being Turbocharged in nature, the driving experience is engaging and thrilling when the pedals are pushed abruptly.

All the SUVs come under the 40-grand price point, where the XC60 is the least expensive. In terms of power, the Mercedes keeps an edge because of the 3.5L V6 engine, while the XC60 sits on the contrary. The X3 stays in the middle, with an impressive performance output, and the Audi, though lags in power, still manage to keep up in the comparison.

The 2011 X3 comes powered with a 3L inline-6 engine in the xDrive28i trim and a turbocharged 3L inline-4 in the 35i. The standard 28i offers a satisfactory amount of power and push; it returns 19 and 25 in the city and highways respectively. However, the turbocharged engine, though offers more power, manages to return similar fuel economy.

The Audi Q5 has an apparent edge in fuel efficiency and range. It comes with the largest fuel tank, which makes it the best in terms of driving range. BMW and Volvo offer somewhat similar fuel economies. On the flip side, the Mercedes being the most capable in power return lags at the bottom due to the fuel-hungry V6 engine and perhaps the smaller fuel tank.

With the new model year, BMW has fitted the 2011 X3 with a refreshed cabin that is more spacious, comfortable, functional, and fitted with the best in class features. The cabin can seat 5 people with an adequate amount of head and legroom. As standard, the interior comes decorated with Silver Matte color or Brushed Aluminum, and the seats come covered with Beige or Black Leatherette. The front seats are 8-way power adjustable with 2-way manual headrests, and the rear seats can be folded into a 60/40 split. The seats are wide, upright, and padded well, which merits uncompromised comfort.

Other standard features include Front Center Console Armrest, Automatic Climate Control with Micro-filter, Leather-wrapped telescopic steering wheel with control buttons, Power windows with one-touch function, and beverage holders. There are a galore of optional features which can be availed to customize the car according to one’s taste. As optional you can further avail of 8-way power-adjustable sport seats with adjustable back bolsters and 2-way thigh and head support. You can also opt for Nevada Leather seat covers, wooden interior trims, 40/20/40 split rear seats, Panoramic Sunroof, leather-wrapped, heated sport steering wheels, and many more.

All the SUVs are 5 seaters as standard, but what makes the X3 better than the others is the amount of head and legroom offered in the front and back. As for the primary storage, the X3 offers a 27.6 cubic feet cargo trunk. Folding the rear seats further will get you a generous 63.3 cubic feet of space, which can be used accordingly. In terms of cargo capacity, the Volvo XC60 offers the largest cargo trunk. Standout interior features in the 2011 BMW X3 are:

• 8-way power-adjustable Sport front seats with thigh support
• Leather-wrapped seats
• Fineline Sienna Wood interior
• Anthracite Headliner
• Heated front and rear seats
• 40/20/40 Split rear seats
• Automatic Climate Control with Microfilter
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel

How intuitive is the 2011 BMW X3’s Infotainment unit?

The 2011 BMW X3 is fitted with a practically built infotainment unit. It comes with an iDrive infotainment display, an AM/FM/CD, and MP3 Player. A 12-speaker music system comes standard which is further loaded with HD Radio, iPod and USB connectivity, Smartphone integration, and SiriusXM satellite radio (one-year subscription).

However, as optional a 16-speaker Premium Sound System with digital amplifier, speed-sensitive equalization, surround mode and adapter, and portable music player compatible can be availed if one is an ardent music lover. Standout Infotainment features in the 2011 BMW X3 include:

• iDrive Infotainment Display
• 12-speaker audio system
• AM/FM/CD and Mp3 player
• HD Radio
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio (1-year subscription)
• 16-speaker Premium sound system

One of the best things about German carmakers is how their cars/vehicles look; one can easily distinguish between a normal vehicle and a German-made vehicle. The Germans incorporate the best in class and modern designs in their creations, which is perhaps one of the main reasons why companies like BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Porsche, and others are so prevalent in the States. The most striking and significant change apparent in the 2011 X3 is its redesigned exterior. Compared to the previous models, the newly designed X3 looks more handsome and sharp, yet very friendly and composed.

The front fascia face is decorated with Halogen free form headlights, Adaptive Xenon headlights with LED Corona Headlight rings, with the newly designed BMW’s signature Kidney grills in between. There are several choices when it comes to wheels; as standard, a Star-Spoke alloy wheel with all-season tires comes fitted in the 28i, however, in the 35i, a premium Y-Spoke style alloy wheel comes standard. Apart from these, a V-Spoke, Double-Spoke and many other alloy wheel choices come as optional, which if fitted will spice up the appeal significantly.

The X3 is the heaviest SUV in the comparison; it also boasts the largest wheelbase with a fair amount of ground clearance. The higher ground clearance and the AWD drivetrain aid the X3 be a capable SUV in off-roading. The Mercedes-Benz GLK Class is the lightest car here owing to its smaller stance. Standout exterior features in the 2011 BMW X3 are:

• 18” Y-Spoke Alloy wheels with all-season-tires
• Auto-leveling Xenon headlights
• LED Corona headlight rings
• Adaptive Lights with LED Brake lights
• Aluminum roof rails
• Chrome tailpipe

BMW instigated the 2011 X3 with a redesigned exterior, recreated cabin with newer and essential features, and many more. But, what’s interesting about the 2011 MY is, the brand did give several thoughts regarding safety. All the wheels are fitted with ABS, EBD, and Emergency Brake Assist which help in a safe stop and efficient deceleration. The IIHS has rated the SUV “Good”. Apart from these, there are safety and driver assist measures that help in mitigation and decrease the possibility of a crash. Standout safety features in the 2011 BMW X3 are:

• DRLS and Adaptive auto-leveling Xenon headlights
• LED Adaptive Brake lights
• Park distance control
• Dynamic Cruise Control
• Rearview Camera
• Hill Descent Control

With a new face design, a reworked interior chamber, practical and latest features, best in class safety features, and a potent engine comes the 2011 X3, starting at $36,750. The BMW X3 is a masterpiece and an example of great German craftsmanship. There is a heap of standard features, and an overwhelming list of optional features, which provides the buyer with a wide range of choices while customizing it.