The BMW X3, the model proudly built at the Rosslyn plant in SA, has always been a favourite at MotorMatters.
Spacious, comfortable, luxurious, solid, and well-built it's everything a prestigious and luxury vehicle should be. In the case of the M240i version, it also brings massive performance to the table as well.
With the 3l 6 cylinder turbo blasting out 285kW and 500Nm to all 4 wheels through the sublime BMW 8 speed automatic transmission, the manic factor comes as standard. Then reality bites when you realise that there is still the X3M Competition with 375kW and 650Nm available if you really want.
If logic were to prevail (it never does when it comes to performance), I would tell you the 20d model we tested recently is more than sufficient. This is a medium size family SUV..........what more do you need than 140kW and 400Nm? Yet we all know that logic flies out of the window when more and more power is available.
The M240i can be a beast of 2 completely separate natures. You can, with difficulty, just potter along in town or on the open road although it always feels like it's straining against the leash. OR......you can put your foot down at every opportunity and simply break out in a manic cackle at the response. The manic cackle will only be subdued by the cost when you stop at the nearest fuel pump.
Giving "Leadfoot" a few days in the car meant that average fuel consumption was around 12l/100km until I took it for our Sunday cruise to Parys. Gritting my teeth to control myself, I managed to bring the final figure for the week down to around 10l/100km. Individual figures will be based on the amount of self-control that you have?
The test car was fitted with every conceivable safety and luxury spec that you would expect at this level. Overall, there is nothing I could think of adding. As always, remember that this can affect the final price of your individual car.
Current pricing is R1 459 048 including the BMW 5 year/ 100 000km maintenance plan.
Alan Rosenmeyer: MotorMatters: www.motormatters.co.za
