Due for its first public showing at the Detroit motor show this month, BMW’s new xActivity four-wheel drive concept vehicle is, in fact, a thinly disguised sneak preview of German firm’s upcoming X3 small off-roader.
Due for its first public showing at the Detroit motor show this month, BMW’s new xActivity four-wheel drive concept vehicle is, in fact, a thinly disguised sneak preview of German firm’s upcoming X3 small off-roader, a vehicle that will go into production in Graz, Austria, during 2004.
It is described as a “frame-structure convertible” with rail-like roofbars similar to those on the Citroen Pluriel. This design feature hints at the possibility of a full-length glass sunroof of retractable panels on the production X3. Plenty of X5 styling cues, most notably the muscular wheelarches and typically BMW short overhangs, will feature on the X3.
The xActivity is powered by one of the engines destined for the X3, BMW’s three-litre straight-six, which should provide this “soft-roader” with the type of get-up-and-go expected from a BMW. Other engines scheduled for the X3 are the three-litre turbodiesel and hot M3 powerplants.
The concept has full-time four-wheel drive, with most of the power going to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, and the full complement of electronic driver aids – dynamic stability control, hill-descent control and, possibly, the Active Front Steering system that made its debut in the new Z4.
Five-speed manual and six-speed automatic gearboxes are likely to be the transmission options.
BMW’s controversial iDrive control system is also likely to feature, albeit in simplified form, and the concept also features pressure-sensitive materials that mould the leather and neoprene seats to the shape of the occupant’s bodies…
Another “active” feature is the sliding boot floor, which allows the easy loading of heavy items within the cabin.
The load shelf slides automatically as the tailgate is released, adding ease of use to the practical layout.
BMW will also unveil updated 3-Series Coupe and Convertible models and a new hydrogen powered 7-Series at Detroit.
