BMW X3 E83, facelift 2006 3.0si (272 Hp) Steptronic


Overall Rating

7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW X3:

The BMW X3 is a compact luxury crossover SUV manufactured by BMW since 2003, based on the BMW 3 Series platform. BMW markets the car as a Sports Activity Vehicle, the company's proprietary descriptor for its X-line luxury vehicles.
The first-generation X3 was designed by BMW in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria—who also manufactured all X3s under contract to BMW. BMW manufactured the second-generation X3 at their Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, United States. Starting with the third generation, BMW South Africa's Rosslyn plant began production of the X3, alongside the Spartanburg plant, after the facility underwent a major upgrade to prepare for the X3 production, replacing the long-running 3 Series production in the plant. About 76,000 units will be manufactured there annually....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E83, facelift 2006 Overview:

BMW X3 (E83, facelift 2006). With 315 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1765 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.5 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

3.0si (272 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Powerful and refined petrol engine, with smooth automatic shifts, providing a luxurious driving feel.

Fuel Economy

Very high fuel consumption, making it an expensive option to run for daily driving.

Best Use Case: Luxury-focused buyers, city driving, and those prioritizing smoothness and refinement over fuel economy.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent xDrive all-wheel-drive system for traction
  • • Strong and efficient diesel engine options (especially 2.0d 177hp and 35d)
  • • Practical and spacious SUV with good cargo capacity
  • • Engaging driving dynamics for an SUV
  • • Premium interior feel for its era

Cons:

  • • Firm ride quality can be uncomfortable on rough roads
  • • Older infotainment system lacks modern features
  • • Petrol engines are generally thirsty
  • • Potential for costly maintenance and common BMW issues (e.g., swirl flaps, electrical)
  • • Some interior plastics feel less premium than later BMW models

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E83: 2004 - 2006).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:X3
Generation:E83, facelift 2006
Modification (Engine):3.0si (272 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2006
End of production:2010
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:272 Hp @ 6650 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:90.8 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:315 Nm @ 2750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:N52B30A More details about the engine N52B30A
Engine displacement:2996
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:6.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:85 mm
Piston Stroke:88 mm
Compression ratio:10.7:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:14.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.3 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.5 sec
Maximum speed:210 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.5 kg/Hp, 154.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.6 kg/Nm, 178.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.1 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1765
Max. weight:2300
Max. roof load:75 kg
Max load:535
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1560 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:480 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2000 kg
Fuel tank capacity:67 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:720 kg
Permitted towbar download:80 kg
Size:
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle:17.2°
Wading depth:500 mm
Length:4569 mm [Same length.]
Width:1853 mm [Same width.]
Height:1674 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2795 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:1987 mm
Front track:1524 mm
Rear (Back) track:1542 mm
Front overhang:821 mm
Rear overhang:953 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):201 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.7 m [above average]
Approach angle:23.9°
Departure angle:21.8°
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc [above average]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size235/55 R17
Wheel rims size8.0 J x 17

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