BMW has launched the facelifted X3 in India starting at Rs 44.90 lakh (ex-showroom, all-India). The facelifted BMW X3, that first made its debut at the 2014 Geneva motor show, gets a couple of cosmetic changes, but only a few mechanical tweaks.

 

The updated X3 adopts BMW’s new design language. The kidney-grille is more prominent and the twin-circular headlights are large; very similar to the larger X5. The new facelift also gets restyled bumpers, new wing mirrors with integrated turn indicators, new tail-lamps and new alloys. The boot-lid of the gets electric functionality. However, the overall silhouette and stance of the car remain unchanged.

 

On the inside, the centre console gets glossy treatment, with a reworked sat-nav system. The HVAC (heating, ventilation and airconditioning) display is also new, and so is the upholstery.

 

Mechanically, the updated X3 has the same engine as its predecessor, albeit a minor tweak. The TwinPower 2.0-litre diesel unit now delivers 190bhp instead of the previous 184bhp. Power is driven to all four wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The new X3 20d xDrive Expedition is priced at Rs 44.90 lakh and the more expensive trim 20d xDrive xLine is for Rs 49.90 lakh.(both prices, ex-showroom, all India).

 

The updated X3 will take on the likes of the Audi Q5 and Freelander 2. The Freelander 2 TD4 S trim is priced at Rs 39.74 lakh, SE at Rs 43.38 lakh and the HSE at Rs 48.72 lakh. The Audi Q5 30 TDI Premium trim costs Rs 47.16 lakh, Premium+ costs Rs 49.46 lakh and the Technology Pack costs Rs 53.44 lakh. The Audi Q5 45 TDI Premium+ trim costs Rs 49.46 lakh and the Technology Pack costs Rs 60.11 lakh.