The new model names coincide with an update to the engine designation that follows that of the new BMW X6 Coupe. Engine variants will henceforth be known as X3 xDrive20d or X3 xDrive30d, etc.

The new models will be available in Australian BMW dealer showrooms from December.

With more than 500,000 of the first generation BMW X3 sold in global markets, the BMW X3 has carved a small niche for itself.

Australian sales of the BMW X3 have risen 15 per cent this year and since launch over 5,200 examples have been delivered.

The new Lifestyle and Exclusive Editions add unique combination of paintwork colours, seat upholstery and light-alloy wheels, delivering a highly individualised BMW X3 to each customer.

In Australia, the engine line-up continues to offer a choice: four- and six-cylinder diesel engines and a pair of six-cylinder petrol engines.

All will be available with the choice of Lifestyle (standard) or Exclusive (optional) model variants, both of which offer luxury features and high-grade interior trims.

BMW X3 Lifestyle Edition.

The Lifestyle Edition highlights the modern flair and sporting agility of the BMW X3. Two new metallic exterior colours – Space Grey and Vermillion Red – join the range of nine colour choices; while standard wheels are unique 17-inch V-spoke alloy wheels with the option of an upgrade to 18-inch design rims. Further exterior identifiers include a graphite metallic finish to the front kidney grille and chrome tailpipe finisher.

Those wishing to personalise their vehicles inside have great scope with two new Nevada leather interior colours – Oyster and Saddle Brown – both standard. In total, customers can choose from five Nevada leather combinations including Grey/Grey, Oyster/Black, Saddle Brown/Black, Sand Beige/Sand Beige and Black/Black.

A multi-function sports steering wheel with leather rim is now standard, and Space Grey metallic interior trim provides a tasteful visual appearance. Alternative fine wood trims, available at no cost, include walnut light, poplar grain light, and poplar grain grey. Finely brushed (lengthwise) aluminium interior trim is also available at no additional cost.

BMW X3 Exclusive Edition.

The Exclusive Edition, which adds further touches to the Lifestyle Edition, combines features with a particularly stylish appearance.

On the outside, the Exclusive Edition is available in exclusive Mineral Green metallic, if one of the standard nine colours does not appeal. There are also 18-inch light-alloy wheels in attractive Y-spoke design, Xenon headlamps and an exterior lights package. Further exterior identifiers include a graphite metallic finish to the front kidney grille and chrome tailpipe finisher.

A multi-function sports steering wheel with leather rim is now standard. Inside there are electric front seats with driver’s side memory, front seat heating, and fine wood trim in walnut. Alternatively customers can specify fine wood trim in poplar grain light or poplar grain grey if they prefer. Customers can also choose from the five interior leather upholstery combinations.

The Exclusive Edition offers customers a particularly luxurious ambience in which to enjoy the car’s dynamic driving qualities.

New pearlescent chrome knobs for the radio the optional navigation system and the handbrake button are fitted across the range.

“These updates ensure the BMW X3 will continue its impressive story of success in Australia,” said Tom Noble, General Manager Marketing, at BMW Group Australia.

“The BMW X3, particularly in the new xDrive20d guise with its 7.0-litres per 100 km fuel economy provides a deliciously tempting package for customers who want to avoid paying Luxury Car Tax, yet still want to enjoy one of the most luxurious and competent all-wheel drive vehicles available.

“The BMW X3 is a proven winner, securing a class victory in the 2008 J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Index recently undertaken in Germany, as well as being the No 1 choice of readers of the AWD magazine “Auto Bild Allrad”, whose readers previously selected it as “All-Wheeler of the Year” in 2006 and 2007,” Tom said.

The new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle range (available December 2008) is priced (RRP) at:
BMW X3 xDrive20d Lifestyle $61,830
BMW X3 xDrive25i Lifestyle $69,157
BMW X3 xDrive30i Lifestyle $74,877
BMW X3 xDrive30d Lifestyle $76,996