BMW gives X3 a facelift, not much else

It’s strange to think that the BMW X3 is more than a decade old. In that time, it’s gone from a pretty dire SUV that didn’t really work on-road or off-road into something that someone who enjoys driving might actually consider buying.

Anyway, the folks at the Munich-born marque have decided to give the X3 a bit of a facelift…and not much else. Well actually, that’s a little bit unfair. BMW has updated a few other things too.

Among the new features are modified twin circular headlights (LED headlights are optional), what BMW says is a “more eye-catching kidney grille”, new front and rear bumpers, and exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators.

Underneath the bonnet, it’ll be getting the option of BMW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engine for the first time. BMW says this will allow it to hit 100km/h in under eight seconds.

The stuff we’re most excited about though is the technology.

On the driver’s side, there are stop and start, coasting and brake energy regeneration features.

Among the new interior tech features available on the new BMW X3 meanwhile are the iDrive Controller with integrated touchpad (for text input using finger movements), Parking Assistant and the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display. There’s the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and preventive pedestrian protection.

All of that will however set you back a fair whack, given that they’re optional extras.