BMW gives the X3 the M Sports Package and new engines

The new M Sports Package for the X3 will be available to buyers from early 2011, and the package includes an aerodynamic kit with unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts and a roof spoiler. There is also the high-gloss shadow line trim for the side window surrounds and roof rails, chrome tailpipes, and a choice of 19 or 20-inch wheels. Additionally, buyers who choose the X3 M Sports Package can specify a unique Carbon Black paintjob.

Inside, BMW has equipped the X3 M Sport with sports seat upholstered in exclusive Pearlpoint fabric/leather, as well as an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction buttons including a Cruise Control button, door sills with the M logo and an M footrest. The roof lining is finished in anthracite, while brushed aluminium interior trim, an M shift lever for the X3 xDrive20d with manual transmission and a stainless steel insert in the loading sill round off the interior upgrades.

Under the skin, the X3 M Sport gets a recalibrated Sports suspension for the X3 xDrive35i, a Sports automatic transmission, steering wheel shift paddles and variable sports steering, including Servotronic. The M Sport Package is available for all models of the X3.

BMW has also announced that there will be two new engines available for the X3. The first is a 3.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-six petrol engine with 258bhp and 310Nm of torque for the X3 xDrive28i model, which allows the car to go from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds, and reach a top speed of 230km/h.

The other new engine is a 3.0-litre straight-six turbo diesel unit that produces 258bhp and 560Nm of torque, and is fitted to the X3 xDrive30d. This enables the car to go from 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds, and reach a top speed of 230km/h.