Local assembly for BMW X3
BMW Group Malaysia has expanded its portfolio of locally assembled models with the X3 being the latest vehicle to roll out from Inokom’s plant in Kulim together with the F30 3 Series, F10 5 Series, and X1.
Introducing the new locally-assembled X3, Dr. Gerhard Pils, Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Malaysia said, “The introduction of the new BMW X3 xDrive20i marks the fourth model line we have introduced here at our assembly facilities and further increases BMW Group Malaysia’s investment and commitment in the country. ”
The local X3 line-up currently consists of two variants, although BMW is currently assembling only the petrol-powered xDrive20i model. The diesel-powered xDrive20d remains on sale but is only available fully-imported for now. BMW personnel are tight-lipped on whether this variant will eventually be locally assembled as well.
Commenting on the X3’s sales performance, Pils said, “Since its introduction in March 2011, we have delivered a total of 312 units of the BMW X3 to date. Like the all new BMW 3 Series, the new BMW 5 Series and the new BMW X1 that are currently assembled at our facilities in Kulim, the new BMW X3 will be a key contributor to our continued success and growth here in Malaysia.”
Mechanical specifications of the new X3 are identical to its fully-imported predecessor, with BMW’s new N20 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbo engine providing 184hp and 270Nm of outputs. Mated to ZF’s 8-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive, the X3 xDrive20i accelerates from rest to 100kph in 8.6 seconds and has a rated consumption of 7.5 l/100km.
The X3’s impressive fuel consumption is aided by the presence of its array of BMW EfficientDynamics enhancements such as Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop, and Eco Pro mode. The Eco Pro mode can be selected via the Driving Experience Control switch which also includes Comfort and Sport among other modes.
Connectivity is another big thing in modern BMWs, and the X3’s in-car BMW ConnectedDrive system features USB/Bluetooth integration together with a host of safety and infotainment functions such as BMW TeleServices and the optional BMW Telematics Platform Accessory (TPA), which includes an emergency Vehicle Recovery System as well as other BMW Assist remote services. Also integrated is the Radio BMW Professional which includes an 8.8 inch control display and 12 loudspeaker HiFi system.
The new locally assembled BMW X3 xDrive20i is covered by BMW’s extensive service program, the BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear and tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle for the first three years or 60,000km of ownership, whichever comes first.
The new BMW X3 xDrive20i will be available at all 16 authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from this Saturday, 12 January 2013. The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW X3 xDrive20i is RM323,800.
Pictures: Official BMW release.
