"X3 XDrive18d, the Most Economical Sports Activity Vehicle BMW Has Ever Offered"

Robert Farago
by Robert Farago

“d” as in diesel. So, no, this bud’s not for you, American oil burner fans. But it does represent a general trend for the Roundelians. See if you can spot it: “The arrival of the BMW X3 xDrive18d represents a new entry point for X3 ownership and is a significant draw for those new car buyers looking to balance economy with performance. Powered by a 143hp 2.0-litre diesel engine, it is capable of 45.6mpg on the combined cycle and records CO2 emissions of just 165g/km. With a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, the BMW X3 xDrive18d offers 350Nm of torque from 1,750rpm through to 2,500rpm which makes for effortless overtaking and town driving.” Yes, “a new entry point for XXX ownership” is the new way of saying “look out down below!” Or, if you prefer, “I spit on your brand equity!” Anyone know the cheapest BMW for sale in the US and UK? Cheapest as in least expensive.

Robert Farago
Robert Farago

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  • JJ JJ on Apr 16, 2009

    @Mirko Reinhardt: Ventilated seats... The X3 is probably the least appealing product in the BMW range right now. I wonder what will happen to the X3 when the X1 arrives.

  • Mirko Reinhardt Mirko Reinhardt on Apr 16, 2009

    @JJ : Ventilated seats… As an engineer, I believe in reducing complexity. Leather seats in a Mercedes? If I ever get that old, I'll begin thinking about it. But in a BMW?

  • JJ JJ on Apr 16, 2009

    @Mirko Reinhardt Good point. Mercedes will be in trouble sometime in the future if they keep failing to appeal to the younger generations. Personally I'd take just about any BMW over the counterpart Merc, and most of the times it's not even close. On the leather seats though; I still think it can work with sportseats and the right amount of bolstering. It is also the dependant on the model you choose. A 7 series or convertible without leather just isn't right.

  • Mirko Reinhardt Mirko Reinhardt on Apr 16, 2009

    @JJ : On the leather seats though; I still think it can work with sportseats and the right amount of bolstering. It is also the dependant on the model you choose. A 7 series or convertible without leather just isn’t right. True. A 7 series that isn't available with a manual transmission also just isn't right. Remember "Transporter"? But nobody buys a 7 for corner carving. An 1er, though? True on Mercedes too. There's nothing wrong with the concept of the A-Class, but the styling... ewww.

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