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2005 BMW X3 Preview

Carving Out Another New Niche

Luxury SUVs are large, V8-powered behemoths, right? While currently true for the most part, BMW is about to change stereotypical perceptions with a compact 3-Series based sport utility. Emulating the strong selling midsize X5 in general layout, overall styling and features, the X3 could easily become the brands top selling model in North America.

While touted by BMW as the "first premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) in its class," the X3 will already face some competition from Land Rovers compact Freelander, albeit being sold as an SUV. But initially the competition wont be fierce. Land Rover, previously under the BMW umbrella but now controlled by Ford, hasnt

Emulating the popular midsize X5 SUV, the 3-Series based X3 fits into the compact SUV class. (Photo: BMW)

met up to quality objectives for overall problems in J.D. Powers Initial Quality Study (IQS), while its Freelander model in particular has come under harsh criticism for poor fit and finish and lackluster perceived quality, the tactile touchy feely aspects of a vehicles interior that often tempt buyers to step up to a luxury brand.

BMW will not make either mistake. Currently

Without much competition in this niche category for the time being, the BMW X3 should easily walk away with top spot. (Photo: BMW)

sitting in 8th out of 36 positions, compared to Land Rovers 35th place in the revered IQS customer survey, the German brand is renowned for producing cars among the best in the premium class for perceived quality. The X3 should walk away with the majority of premium buyers looking for a vehicle in this class.

Without a doubt Land Rover will up its quality with a completely redesigned Freelander in the near future, expected to share

Many elements from the xActivity concept have found their way into the X3, but not the fully open roof or minimalist interior. (Photo: BMW)

much of its architecture with a new compact Volvo SUV to be named XC50. Both vehicles will reportedly derive their platforms from the next generation Ford Focus, hardly a premium nameplate. Other upscale brands will follow suite with compact SUVs of their own for sure, but all this is just speculation, BMW is here and now with photos of the real deal, metal, leather and soft touch plastics included.

The X3 hasnt strayed too far from the trendy xActivity concept vehicle that debuted at this

The X3s interior is clean and contemporary, and will be available in a variety of color and trim choices. (Photo: BMW)

years Detroit auto show, at least from a styling perspective. Of course the concepts fully open roof didnt make it to production, nor did the ultra-minimalist interior motif, devoid of clutter and surface gadgetry.

The new X3s dash is clean though, similar in spirit to the new Z4 roadsters design. A more conventional center stack is topped off by an optional pop-up 16:9 navigation system colour monitor like that in the Z4 - less intrusive than the usual center dash placement. As expected a variety of color and trim choices will be available, allowing the personalization expected by buyers in this class.

Bangles headlight and taillamp treatments will be talked about, but arent nearly as controversial as those on the Z4 or 7-Series. (Photo: BMW)

Overall there is absolutely nothing retro about the new models interior styling theme, rather the X3 exudes tastefully executed contemporary elegance.

The same can be said for its exterior styling. While not everyone appreciates what Chris Bangle and team have done with the BMW lineup as of late, with 4,206 signatures signed to a "Stop Chris Bangle" petition as of March of this year, no one can argue against the fact that the various new designs are much more distinctive than their respective outgoing models.

And its important for BMW to create a completely unique identity, even if its just to distinguish itself from less expensive imitators. The current

With classic styling cues the X3 looks sharp. (Photo: BMW)

Toyota RAV4 was heavily influenced by the X5, in the same way that the new Honda CR-V borrowed its overall shape from the Mercedes M-Class. Honda has gone on to ape Mercedes-Benz taillight designs for its new Civic and Accord coupes as well, causing Mercedes to recently update their lenses. And have you taken a look at a Pontiac Grand AM or Grand Prix lately? No further comment is necessary. With Chris Bangle at the helm, no entry level car company will be able to mimic BMW style without immediately being criticized for plagiarism.

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