2012 BMW X3 Trims and Specs

Following a complete second-generation makeover for 2011, the BMW X3 xDrive 28i Sport Activity Vehicle receives only a few minor updates for 2012. The luxury-oriented compact crossover vehicle gets a new black high-gloss finish on the instrument panel, as well as new floor mats. Leatherette upholstery comes standard inside the X3's spacious, refined cabin, with 8-way power-adjustable front seats and memory settings for the driver. Silver matte interior trim, automatic climate control and a three-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with audio, cruise and Bluetooth controls, as well as a tilt/telescopic column, add a sporty feel. BWM also includes its iDrive onboard controller, as well as a 12-speaker, 205-watt audio system with HD radio, a CD/MP3 player, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. However, satellite radio does not come standard. The rear seatback splits 60/40 and folds down to expand cargo space. Optional packages add such features as sport seats, a sport steering wheel, leather upholstery, navigation and a power tailgate.

Power for the xDrive28i continues to come from a normally aspirated 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, which delivers 240 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. It mates to an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shift and sport modes. Fuel economy numbers check in at 19 mpg city/25 highway. The xDrive28i also comes standard with BMW's xDrive AWD system, which instantly intercedes when it detects wheel slippage, distributing power appropriately to either axle to ensure optimal traction. Safety features include 6 airbags, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control, which works in conjunction with the AWD system and includes brakefade compensation and a start-off assist. Outside, the X3 continues to display dynamic exterior styling, with a dual-kidney grille, sculpted nose, prominent wheel wells and a steeply slanted rear window. Double-round automatic headlights, halogen foglights and L-shaped taillights are among the other exterior features, along with rain-sensing wipers, aluminum roof rails, a rear spoiler, heated power-adjustable side mirrors and dual chrome exhaust pipes. The xDrive28i rides on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

The BMW X3 xDrive35i Sport Activity Vehicle rolls into 2012 with a number of updates. Outside, the xDrive35i gets new adaptive self-leveling HID headlights with corona rings and new LED adaptive brakelights, as well as a new panoramic sunroof. Inside, BMW adds a black high-gloss finish on the instrument panel, as well as new floor mats. In addition, the xDrive35i comes equipped with a few features not found on the entry-level xDrive28i, including Fineline Siena Wood trim and an upgraded leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. It also receives an upgraded powerplant, in the form of a turbocharged version of the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine found in both X3 trims. The turbo engine pumps out 300 hp, with matching torque at 300 lb-ft. BMW pairs the engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which features manual shift and sport modes. Fuel economy numbers check in at 19 mpg city/26 highway. The xDrive35i comes standard with BMW's xDrive AWD system, as well as 6 airbags, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control, which works in conjunction with the AWD system and incorporates brakefade compensation and a start-off assist.

Inside, BMW equips the xDrive35i with leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control and 8-way power-adjustable front seats with memory settings for the driver. The automaker also includes its iDrive onboard controller, as well as a 12-speaker, 205-watt audio system with HD radio, a CD/MP3 player, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. However, satellite radio does not come standard. The upgraded multifunction steering wheel includes audio, cruise and Bluetooth controls, as well as a tilt/telescopic column, while the rear seatback splits 60/40 and folds down to expand cargo space. Optional packages add such features as leather upholstery, navigation and a power tailgate. Outside, the X3's distinctive exterior styling includes a dual-kidney grille, a sculpted nose, prominent wheel wells and a steeply slanted rear window. Halogen foglights, rain-sensing wipers, aluminum roof rails, a rear spoiler, heated power-adjustable side mirrors and dual chrome exhaust pipes are among the other exterior features. The xDrive35i rides on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.