New BMW X3 here in September

BMW India will launch the latest generation X3 (codename - F25) by the end of September 2011. According to our sources, the X3 might not be offered with petrol engines in 2011.

Two variants BMW aficionados can expect are the xDrive20d (with a 2L 184hp/380Nm mill) and xDrive30d (with a 3L 258hp/560Nm mill). Both locally assembled models will be equipped with 4WD (xDrive technology). Currently the X3 is offered in both petrol (2.5si) and diesel (20d) guises for between 40-45 lakh rupees (ex-showroom).

The X3 is a sales disappointment for BMW. This year BMW managed to sell a meager 2 units of X3 in India whereas the Q5 was a runaway success for Audi and sales peaked with 96 units in April and 70 units in February. BMW did not have the new X3 available to match Audi, but even otherwise the X3 was never giving Audi headaches.

With an aggressive marketing campaign and competitive prices, "Joy" could make a comeback. Sources have told Indian Autos Blog that a price war will be waged with the xDrive20d priced under the stripped-down Audi Q5 2.0 TDI. Are prices going to start at 37-38 lakh rupees?

2011 BMW X3 Image Gallery

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