Just a few weeks after its official market debut, the X3 has already been awarded the “Off-Roader of the Year” by the readers of the German Off Road magazine. Thus, the second generation model follows in the footsteps of the old one that received the same award twice in a row, in 2006 and 2007. Meanwhile, the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe was runner-up in the Crossover category while the new BMW X5 came third among the Luxury Off-Roaders.
The success of the three BMW X models show just how popular they are with German customers. It all began in 1999 with the launch of the first-generation of first generation X5, with which the Bavarian entered the Sports Activity Vehicle segment. This was soon followed by the launch of both the first BMW X3 and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
This system offered electronically controlled drive distribution, which not only made for improved traction and stability on slippery surfaces, but superior dynamics on the road as well, creating a unique rendition of hallmark BMW driving performance.
In spring 2011 the engine portfolio comprises two petrol and two diesel engines with output ranging from 184 hp to 306 hp. Depending on the engine choice, the new X3 comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission either as standard or as an optional extra. All-new suspension technology brings improvements to agility and ride comfort compared with the predecessor.
The “Off-Roader of the Year” voting ranks as the most important reader poll in Germany going back as far as 1982, when the magazine's readership was first asked to choose their favorite all-wheel-drive vehicles.
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