BMW X3 2014-2022 xDrive20d Expedition

X3 2014-2022 xDrive20d Expedition Review

The all new BMW X3 is available in two variants with a diesel engine as standard. Its entry level trim is badged as BMW X3 xDrive20d Expedition and is equipped with a refined 2.0-litre, twin-power turbo diesel mill. It has the ability to produce 190bhp and a commanding torque output of 400Nm, which is 6bhp and 20Nm more than its earlier version. Its 8-speed automatic transmission gearbox works with xDrive intelligent 4WD system that enables the vehicle to perform well on terrains and off-roads. Its xDrive status is shown on instrument panel and the control display as well. Its efficient braking mechanism is further assisted by ABS along with EBD and cornering brake control function. This variant also has a BMW secure advance package, which includes alloy wheels, tubeless radial tyres, engine shield, interior protection cover and a key lock out assistance as well. This sports utility vehicle will now compete with the likes of Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and others in this segment. It is available with a standard 2-years warranty regardless of its mileage.

Exteriors:

Its front profile has a kidney bean shaped radiator grille that is treated with a aluminum satin finish. It is flanked by a newly sculptured headlight cluster that is incorporated with high intensity Bi-xenon headlamps featuring four LED illuminated rings along with day time running lights. It also includes automatic driving lights and headlight washer function. The dual tone bumper has a pair of air ducts and a large air dam for cooling the engine . It is surrounded by a pair of LED fog lamps, which have reflection technique. The front windscreen is integrated with a set of rain sensing wipers along with washer. Its wheel arches are fitted with a set of refined 17-inch, Y-spoke alloy wheels, which are covered with 225/60 R17 sized tubeless radials. Thers is also a full size spare wheel given, which comes along with other tools that help in changing a flat tyre. It window sills and side moldings have aluminum finish, while its door handles and external wing mirrors are in body color. Its rear has a radiant LED tail light cluster and an expressive tailgate. It also has a revamped bumper, an exhaust pipe and a windshield featuring defogger. At present, this sports utility vehicle is available in several metallic paint options, which include Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Deep Sea Blue, Mineral Silver, Space Grey, Sparkling Brown, Glacier Silver and Melbourne Red.

Interiors:

The internal cabin of this BMW X3 xDrive20d Expedition variant has fineline light wood and pearl chrome inserts. It has wide seats that are covered with Sensatec seat upholstery and have integrated head restraints. The front seats are electrically adjustable and has memory function for driver's seat. The dashboard is equipped with two storage boxes, an instrument panel, AC Vents and a leather wrapped multi-functional steering wheel. This variant has a lot of utility based aspects, which includes inside rear view mirrors with anti dazzle function, rear center armrest, roller sun blinds for rear side windows and a spacious boot compartment.

Engine and Performance:

This trim is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel mill that displaces 1995cc. This engine is incorporated with a common rail direct injection fuel supply system, which allows it to produce 18.56 Kmpl on the highways approximately. It is further incorporated with a twin-power turbocharged unit, which helps it to develop a maximum power output of 190bhp at 4000rpm along with a peak torque of 400Nm between 1750 to 2750rpm. It is skilfully mated with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission gearbox that is integrated with an auto hold function. It allows this vehicle to zoom towards 100 Kmph speed mark from a standstill in just 8.1 seconds and enables it to reach a top speed of 210 Kmph, which is rather good.

Braking and Handling:

This trim is blessed with an advanced braking system as all its wheels have been paired with ventilated disc brakes. It is further augmented by ABS along with brake assist and cornering brake control (CBC). In addition to these, it also has dynamic stability including traction control and hill descent control. It also has a power steering with Servotronic steering assist that provides superior response and makes handling simpler. Both front and rear axles have dynamic damping control with infinite and independent damping, which helps to keep this vehicle well balanced.

Comfort Features:

This BMW X3 xDrive20d Expedition trim is incorporated with a number of advanced features like park distance control for front and rear, a leather wrapped multi-functional steering wheel with various control buttons and auto start/stop function. The dual zone automatic air conditioning unit includes active carbon micro filter and rear AC vents, which keeps the cabin pleasant. It has a BMW ConnectDrive with 16.5cm color display, which has a CD player and direct menu control buttons . This system supports a USB port and Bluetooth with hands-free and audio streaming function. The cruise control has braking function that helps in maintaining a steady speed on the highways as set by the driver. It also has foldable rear seat back rest, roller sun blinds for rear windows and velour floor mats.

Safety Features:

This SUV is equipped with some sophisticated safety aspects like active head restraints and six airbags that maximizes the protection for its occupants sitting inside. It has 3-point seat belts for all passengers that have pyrotechnic belt tensioners and force limiters. It is also bestowed with features like ISOFIX child seat mounting, first aid kit with warning triangle, run flat tyres with reinforced side walls, cornering brake control, electronic vehicle immobilizer including crash sensor and electric parking brake with auto hold function. Its rigid body structure is integrated with side impact beams that protects the occupants in case of any collision. All these aspects put together makes this SUV, one of the safest vehicle to travel anytime.

Pros:

1. Luxurious internal cabin with innovative safety aspects.

2. Good engine performance with good acceleration.

Cons:

1. Lack of panoramic sunroof is a big minus point.

2. Cost of maintenance and spares is quite expensive.