BMW South Africa is set to add two new base models to its locally produced X3 range, expanding the line-up from four to six derivatives.
At launch in November 2017, four all-wheel-drive variants were offered in South Africa: the xDrive20d, xDrive30i, xDrive30d and flagship M40i. A year later, however, the new entry-level sDrive20i and xDrive20i models are set to join the range.
The X3 sDrive20i will be priced at R661 199, with its turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine sending 135 kW and 290 N.m to the rear axle via an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW claims a 0-100 km/h time of 8,2 seconds for this model, with top speed pegged at 215 km/h and combined fuel consumption at a claimed 7,4 L/100 km.
And the X3 xDrive20i? Well, this derivative will come in at R707 405 and employ the very same powerplant, but here linked to all four wheels. Interestingly, the Bavarian automaker claims a slightly tardier dash to three figures (of 8,3 seconds) and fuel consumption of 7,6 L/100 km.
In April 2018, BMW Group South Africa officially announced the start of production of the X3 at its Rosslyn plant near Pretoria, completing the switchover from building the 3 Series sedan.
