Independent test drive of BMW X3: The status of the science representative is un
Although the new energy vehicle market in our country has been widely embraced today, with the sales proportion of domestic new energy vehicles breaking through 50%, there are still many supporters of traditional fuel vehicles, especially families or individuals with decent financial conditions (I no longer use the term "middle class" now, as I've heard it's a term created to harvest people's money) who pursue quality.
The Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi models that this group of people pursue are basically the top 9 best-selling models in China (34C, 56E, X3, Q5, GLC). These represent the car needs of most well-off families in China, balancing brand and quality without going wrong.
Today, let's take a look at the BMW X3 30i, which represents sportsmanship among them.
Looking back a few years, the X3 was quite a hot topic because this generation marked the start of X3's domestic production. Previously sold as an imported version, its sales were not high. After domestic production, its visibility on the road has visibly increased. The main reason is that price is the key; also, I've actually asked many friends, and they share the same concern as me, fearing that imported vehicles might be troublesome to repair.After the facelift, I seriously doubt that the X3 shares a platform with the iX3 because it appears to have become quite bloated, much like the new BMW 5 Series. Although there are cost considerations, sometimes it is genuinely advisable not to share a platform between electric and gasoline vehicles. The initial costs may be saved, but in the long run, the losses may not necessarily be small.
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The first thing that struck me as odd about the X3 was the taillights, which seem to have been deliberately altered to cater to or embrace the design of electrification. Of course, it's also possible that I'm mistaken.
The X3's "most BMW-like" feature might still be the retention of the iconic round headlight cluster. This design is so classic, having been passed down for decades, and is gradually being transformed or even eliminated in new BMW models. As a Bimmer, it's a bit hard to accept emotionally. It's a slight pity that the headlight cluster looks a bit short and chubby from the side, not sharp enough.From a frontal view, it exudes a very "upright" image of a BMW SUV, no, it should be called an SAV! The classic angel-eye headlights, the appropriately sized dual-kidney grille, and the sporty lower bumper design all contribute to a front fascia that is very "BMW" in appearance. I suppose the BMW higher-ups also wanted to seek change, thus they began to experiment with significant modifications to these classic elements on niche models with lower sales volumes.
After all, leading the times always requires bold steps, and there's nothing wrong with that. However, the new 5 Series has met with resistance. The drastic reforms were not well-received by consumers, and it's a wild guess that this generation of the 5 Series might see an early replacement. Strange, why am I always complaining about the 5 Series?
In fact, aside from the taillights bearing some resemblance to electric vehicles, the overall rear design of the X3 is commendable. It has a well-defined, three-dimensional shape from top to bottom, especially when everyone else is opting for hidden exhaust designs, BMW remains "stubbornly" committed to dual, dual-outlet exhausts, which is quite appealing.
I've always felt that BMW's SUVs are designed with a solid, robust "fist-like" feel, which might be due to a sense of tightness and strength in the design.High-power models typically feature attractive wheels, and the 20-inch multi-spoke large wheels with a front tire width of 245 and a rear tire width of 275 not only look impressive but also provide a sense of satisfaction in terms of handling. The only downside is that the air guide slot behind the tires is merely a decorative piece... This is not the only place; almost all the air guide slots on the X3 are fake.
Upon entering the cabin, the owner, a young lady, has chosen the popular red and black interior. We noticed that the interior of the BMW X3 is quite conventional compared to other BMW models. It does not have the drastic changes seen in its sibling models, and it even carries a sense of "thick history" reminiscent of the previous generation of BMW vehicles.
For instance, the hexagonal control area for the central console, the large vertical screen, and the air conditioning and digital buttons. Admittedly, the new BMW designs are more aesthetically pleasing and refined—but the physical buttons are clearly more practical. Coupled with the use of fine metals, wood, and leather, there is a sense of "historical sediment" in the refinement. It's worth mentioning that there are many "X3" elements on the X3, which shows thoughtfulness.Additionally, it should be noted that we found the lateral space of the X3 to be not very spacious, even not much different from most compact SUVs. The rear space is also a bit tight. When we first heard that the X3 was going to be domestically produced, everyone thought it would be elongated, but it did not happen. This seems to be to save face for the big brother X5, after all, the X5 is also going to be domestically produced.
Upon careful reflection, BMW is indeed one of the luxury brands that cooperate most closely with China. Now, apart from the 7 series and some niche models that don't make much money, almost all the rest are arranged for domestic production. Fortunately, the trunk space of the X3 is large enough! It can very well fulfill the main responsibility of an "SUV" when moving large items.
Like most BMW family models, the X3 has a very docile temperament, and with the addition of xDrive, in the "Comfort" mode, the X3 is as docile as a cat.
I carefully felt it, and now BMW has tuned the classic ZF 8-speed automatic transmission even better. Whether it's low-speed crawling or high-speed cruising, the gear shifts of the transmission are almost inaudible, and the minor problem of low-speed jerking in the first two generations of models has almost been completely overcome. Now you just need to quietly enjoy the smooth experience that this transmission brings to you. The response of BMW's engine and transmission can be said to be the strongest among all brands, and even Jaguar, Volvo, and others that also use the ZF 8AT are a bit short of the mark.It can be said that BMW remains the best brand at combining sportiness with comfort, without a doubt. Its smooth handling is the closest to that of an electric vehicle.
Of course, a true Bimmer would not be satisfied with just "Comfort"; the Sport mode is a must. Without further ado, the X3 in its aggressive mode "shows its true colors", with the engine revs climbing, the transmission pushing the sense of jerkiness into your back, and the steering wheel starting to fight with you, the X3 tells you as if it has transformed into a different car that it is not to be messed with now.
Thanks to the powerful B48B20G high-performance engine and the assistance of Xdrive, you can change lanes, corner, and overtake with ease. BMW's handling has always given me confidence, not to mention that this is the standard-wheelbase X3.
Apart from its higher center of gravity, its directional accuracy and the following of the rear end are still top-notch. On open roads, you can still enjoy the thrill of driving, accompanied by BMW's unique, faint engine roar, the sporty atmosphere is directly captured. Of course, it is, after all, an SUV, and in terms of extreme handling, it is still a notch below the 330i. But we can't have our cake and eat it too, can we?The only minor drawback is that its suspension system has some flaws. I'm not sure if this is an isolated case with the young lady's car, but every time it goes over a manhole cover or a small pothole, the X3's suspension isn't very crisp. After a big jolt, the small aftershocks aren't dealt with cleanly and efficiently. Going over a pothole feels like "bang, ding ding ding ding ding~", which doesn't seem very premium.
What deserves praise is that the new BMW models have excellent sound insulation. Even without soundproofing material (the engine hood is actually made of aluminum), the engine's quietness is very impressive. Except for downshifting and rev-matching where you need that "adrenaline", during cruising, it's all quiet and peaceful, perfectly embodying the saying "still as a virgin, swift as a hare".
In summary:
The BMW X3 is a model with very distinct strengths and weaknesses. In terms of dynamic driving, thanks to its top-notch powertrain combination and compact body, its drivability ranks among the first tier of all mid-size SUVs. The only minor shortcoming is that the suspension system is slightly lacking in precision.The downside is that, in order to cater to its sports performance, practicality has been compromised. Its horizontal and vertical spaces are not large, or even small, with only the trunk space being at a normal level. However, considering the significant discounts currently available, these shortcomings seem to be tolerable. The fact that the X3 is now ubiquitous on the streets indicates a high level of acceptance among consumers. It is a vehicle that is more about pleasing oneself than catering to the family.
Currently, we are in an unprecedented transformation in all aspects, a situation that has not been seen in a century. I believe that BMW will certainly recognize the favorable winds and adapt to the changes, as the saying goes, "A riot of colors always signifies spring!"
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