BMW to unveil xActivity concept at Detroit

Whitby, Ontario - BMW will unveil its new 'xActivity' four-wheel drive concept vehicle at the Detroit auto show. The xActivity's design, with "alternating concave and convex surfaces" is an indication of what to expect from future X models, says the company.

The xActivity features a "frame-structure convertible roof" that combines "the open-top enjoyment of a convertible with the robust appearance and structure of an SAV (sports activity vehicle)," says the company. Reinforced, longitudinal rails connect the A-pillars to the rear of the car on both sides, negating the need for B- or C-pillars, and providing a sportier look. The xActivity features a combination of matt and gloss surfaces in 'Bronze Moss' paintwork that alternates between bronze, green and blue-grey depending on how the light is reflecting on the vehicle's surfaces.

The most interesting technological feature of the interior is the 'smart materials' for the vehicle's seats that eliminate the need for electric or manual seat adjustment. The seat structures themselves are made from newly developed pressure-sensitive materials that allow adjustment solely through applying pressure to the seat components themselves.

A new unconventional loading system provides more practicality. As soon as the tailgate is opened the contents of the loading area are automatically extracted to a more convenient position and angle outside the vehicle's body reducing the potential muscle-stretching pressures of traditional unloading actions.

The xActivity is powered by a 231 horsepower, 3.0 litre, inline six cylinder engine. According to BMW, "power is transmitted from very low engine speeds offering impressive performance on steep gradients and transmitted to the four driven wheels through a manual gearbox." The front tires are 245/45-18 inch at the front and 275/40-18 inch at the rear on distinctive 18" rims.

The xActivity's low centre of gravity and well-balanced suspension are combined with a brand new electronic driver control system that offers traction control delivered individually to each of the four wheels.

Also in Detroit, BMW will be unveiling new 6 speed manual and SMG gearboxes on the facelifted 3 Series Coupe and Convertible models both of which will also feature Adaptive Headlights and two-stage brake lights. As well, a new hydrogen powered 7 Series, the 8 cylinder 745h will be unveiled.

Look, Ma, no roof!


Darn, i hate concept car interior!

The BMW xActivity

Munich - With the xActivity BMW will present at the North American International Auto Show 2003 in Detroit an impressive vehicle concept that bears a name giving an apt description of what it has to offer. The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is an example of how sporty driving dynamics, enormous versatility and the inimitable pleasure of driving an open-top vehicle can be combined into one. This four-wheel vehicle, a so-called "frame-structure convertible" represents a completely new synthesis of various "fun factors". Moreover, numerous cleverly thought-out details make the xActivity a versatile vehicle and an ideal companion for active people who participate in outdoor activities and carry sports equipment around with them.

This concept vehicle is a good example of what BMW expects of a "Sports Activity Vehicle" (SAV) without having to compromise. The perfect combination of sporty, dynamic driving characteristics typical of BMW, a tremendously versatile range of uses and a unique and impressive design. With the xActivity BMW is hinting at what is to be expected from the enlargement of the X family. The typical proportions and design elements of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles form the basis of the fresh and youthful appearance of the xActivity. Moreover, its designers have made sure it possesses its very own individual qualities. From the characteristic design language with alternating concave and convex surfaces and the unique double-kidney grille, twin headlights and Hofmeister knick, right up to the newly designed rear end, this vehicle shows that it is well-equipped to match the successful series-production X5.

The proportions typical of BMW incorporating a long wheelbase and short overhangs present the xActivity with its sporting, dynamic appearance. Rigid bumpers and conspicuously flared wheel arches reflect the robustness and power expected of an SAV.

Probably the most striking feature of the xActivity is the roof construction. Being a so-called frame-structure convertible it combines the airy lightness of a convertible with the robust appearance of an SAV. Longitudinal rails onnect the A-pillars to the rear end on both sides, between which the driver and passengers can get a dose of the sun and the wind while travelling to their forthcoming outdoor activities. There are no B- or C-pillars, giving the xActivity a particularly sporting character.

The concept car underlines its high degree of functionality through surprising attention to detail. The unconventional loading system in particular does great justice to the name "Sports Activity Vehicle". As soon as the tailgate is opened - that is the loading board which is situated at the rear and folded down when needed - an elaborately constructed system automatically extracts the load, two mountain bikes for example, from the loading area to a certain degree. As this system facilitates the unloading of the bikes, you are off having fun on two wheels in just no time at all.

Sporty and versatile features are also to be found inside the xActivity, whereby comfort and typical BMW elegance are retained. Inside the vehicle the design matches the exterior by utilizing the same alternating concave and convex surfaces, presenting an interior with an extremely modern appearance. The intentional use of light and shade enhances the spacious effect created by the interior elements. Due to attractively designed surfaces, each individual element has its own character. Arranged in modular fashion they produce a harmonious ambience, a simultaneous invitation to both activity and relaxed well being. Vertical features on the door handles and the centre console give the interior a generous and spacious appearance worthy of an outdoor vehicle. Intelligently designed control elements such as a single-button control of all air-condition functions ensure that the cockpit offers convenience of operation. And, finally, the feature that counts most when experiencing an SAV from inside is the "Command
Position", the characteristically high seating position in a Sports Activity Vehicle. This ensures that the driver has that very special feel for the vehicle and an excellent view of the vehicle and the outside surroundings.

State-of-the-art technologies underline the path-breaking character of this concept vehicle: For example, in the interior, through the application of so-called "smart materials", the seats themselves become control elements for seat adjustment, thereby blending harmoniously into the entire ambience. These newly developed pressure-sensitive materials are a designer's dream come true, as they indeed give him the opportunity of creating a perfect synthesis of design and function.

The design of the materials and colours reflect the wide utility range of the xActivity: The exterior features noble, high-gloss surfaces combined with numerous matt-finished elements symbolizing robustness and durability even in severe driving conditions. The body colour "Bronze Moss" alternates between bronze, green and blue-grey, depending on how the light is reflected, this being symbolic of the xActivity's versatility. The materials chosen for the interior combine elegance with sportiness, thereby ready to challenge any weather condition if necessary. Natural cowhide has been combined with flexible, water-resistant materials and seat covers made of neoprene. In order to match the exterior the colour scheme used inside the vehicle incorporates carefully selected beige, olive and grey colour tones, which also bestow the interior a modern, avant-garde appearance.

The promise of agility and dynamics the design implies is also applicable to the technology incorporated in this 4.55 metre long vehicle. The widely acclaimed BMW 3.0-litre straight 6-cylinder engine delivering 170kW/231 bhp at a beefy torque of up to 300 Nm is a guarantee of fun all round. Its spontaneous development of power begins at lower engine speeds, meaning that the xActivity boasts superior performance even when confronted with steep gradients. Due to the spontaneous, fast-revving engine the xActivity becomes an athletic performer when set loose on the road. Power is transmitted by means of a manual gearbox to generously sized wheels with 245/45 tyres at the front, 275/40 tyres at the rear, each on 18" rims. The well-balanced suspension and a low centre of gravity ensure easy handling and a high degree of agility in all driving situations. This is why even the most challenging of winding roads becomes a pleasure to tackle.

In addition to this, the xActivity's BMW four-wheel drive - just like on the X5 - holds in store at first glance a further very unusual special feature: A special program used for the control electronics ensures that the traction control delivers to each wheel precisely the correct amount of slip required to ensure optimum performance when driving on off-road tracks. However, those not driving on such adverse surfaces also benefit from this unique development. When, for example, other vehicles are forced to come to a complete standstill owing to deep snow, the xActivity will bring its driver and passengers surely and safely to their desired destination. However, in this case it is advisable to take snowboards along with you, and not mountain bikes.

The New BMW X3. An All-New Sports Activity Vehicle

Unprecedented levels of BMW SAV agility
Bold new design - unmistakably a BMW SAV
xDrive: new intelligent four-wheel-drive technology sets new standards for agility and traction
Available engines: 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter inline sixes
Choice of six-speed manual or five-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmissions

Woodcliff Lake, NJ, June 17, 2003... With the introduction of the X3, BMW expands its successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. The new BMW X3 combines unprecedented levels of agility with the versatility of a BMW SAV.

The BMW X3 combines the characteristic proportions of a Sport Utility Vehicle with both classic and new design features from BMW. The modern design language with interacting concave and convex surfaces gives the X3 a youthful and fresh appearance. Its unique position within the BMW model lineup is underlined by a wide range of characteristic features such as the newly interpreted, classic "Hofmeister kink" in the rear side windows, the newly designed double kidney grille, as well as the headlights and rear lights. The long wheelbase with short overhangs and the sloping roofline accentuate the dynamic character and performance of this Sports Activity Vehicle right from the start. Flared wheel arches and the striking front section give this newcomer an air of self-confidence and underline its bold appearance wherever it goes.

Dynamic performance is ensured by BMW's 2.5 and 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engines widely lauded for their truly outstanding refinement and performance. The X3 3.0i boasts 225 horsepower while the X3 2.5i offers 184. Both models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission is available as an option.

A special highlight of the BMW X3 is the all-new xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which sets new standards in agility for all-wheel-drive vehicles. BMW's xDrive allows infinitely adjustable and fully variable distribution of torque front-to-rear. The system immediately recognizes any need for a change in power distribution and responds very quickly when driving on road, often before the wheels begin to lose their grip. As a result, the X3 responds with cat-like reflexes, but at the same time is able to feed optimum drive forces to the respective axle at any time when cornering, significantly minimizing both understeer and oversteer in the process.

On the road, xDrive therefore offers a high standard of agility, driving pleasure and, provides at the same time, state-of-the art safety features. The BMW xDrive system also ensures better grip and traction on slippery or rough terrain, with drive power being shifted continuously to the wheels with the best available grip.

The outstanding versatility of the new BMW X3 is by no means limited to the wide range of different road conditions and terrain on which this SAV demonstrates its agile and dynamic performance. The interior and the wide range of available equipment reflects the crisp, agile nature of the X3 blending with it the luxury and comfort one expects of a BMW. From their "command position" - the high, characteristic seating position of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle - the occupants not only see the surroundings from a pleasant and clear perspective, but also enjoy a modern and very spacious interior. Typical BMW elegance and aesthetics combine with the agile character of the vehicle to create a youthful, sporty ambience. In the cockpit the classic, easy-to-read analog gauges are grouped in typical BMW style in an elegant binnacle. In the middle of the dashboard, the driver will find the optional navigation system with a 16:9 color monitor that flips up whenever required.

Lots of space is to be found behind the wide opening rear tailgate, and enables the driver to take along all kinds of sports gear such as several mountain bikes. Numerous storage compartments round off the functionality of the X3.

In developing the X3, BMW also focused on active and passive safety to the highest standards. The engineering principle of BMW's Sports Activity Vehicle - the front drive shaft extending through the oil sump - gives the X3 a very low center of gravity and reduces body roll in the process. And with its intelligent distribution of power, xDrive keeps the X3 very stable and sure-footed even in fast bends, as one would expect of a BMW SAV. Should the going get tough, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) will intervene to help stabilize the vehicle. BMW's Hill Descent Control (HDC) is also available to drive down hills, even on loose ground or slippery surfaces.

The BMW X3 will make its debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show in September and will be available in early 2004.

Whitby, Ontario - BMW has announced that the new BMW X3 will make its debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show in September. It will be available with 3.0 litre and 2.5 litre inline six cylinder engines developing 225 horsepower and 184 horsepower respectively. Both models come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, a five-speed automatic transmission being available as an option.

A highlight of the BMW X3 is the new xDrive all-wheel-drive system which allows infinitely adjustable and fully variable distribution of torque front-to-rear. The system immediately recognises any need for a change in power distribution and responds very quickly. As a result, the X3 is able to feed optimum torque to the respective axle at any time during dynamic cornering, minimising both under- and oversteer in the process. As a result, stability management systems such as DSC can intervene at a far later point in time than with conventional four-wheel drive.

As well, a front drive shaft extending through the oil sump gives the X3 a very low centre of gravity and reduces body roll.

BMW's unique trailer stability control offers safer towing of boat and other trailers. This extension of the DSC stability control system comes as standard, as does automatic HDC Hill Descent Control for driving downhill safely even on loose or slippery surfaces.

The BMW X3 will be available in Europe and North America in early 2004.

Preview: 2005 BMW X3
From Austria to the U.S. by way of xActivity.
by Ian Norris 6/20/2003

BMW has issued pictures of its new X3, the SUV trailed at the Detroit auto show in the form of the Xactivity concept. Back in January the Munich firm insisted that the Xactivity was just a design exercise, but the stance didn’t fool too many people. It was obvious it was a production vehicle, and now the pretense has been dropped; the second of what BMW calls its “Sports Activity Vehicles” will go into production later this year after being shown to the world at the Frankfurt show in September.

The X3 moves down a size from the successful X5, putting it in the same range as vehicles like the Ford Escape. Justifying the “premium” tag it has attached to the X3, BMW is using it to launch a new four-wheel-drive system patented under the name of xDrive. According to the manufacturer, xDrive sets new standards in agility for 4x4 traction systems. It works by instantly changing torque distribution from front to rear axles and is claimed to offer “substantial improvements” in stability, driving pleasure and safety.

The system is both fully adjustable and infinitely variable. It feeds optimum torque to the required axle at any time, countering understeer and oversteer during cornering in road use. Off-road, it is designed to improve traction by distributing drive forces to the axle with the most grip. As soon as wheelspin threatens, the electro-hydraulic center coupling transfers power to the axle with the greater traction.

The xDrive system is combined with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) to give the X3 optimum road handling characteristics using the inbuilt safety measures DSC offers in extreme situations. Off-road, the X3 uses one of the best souvenirs BMC kept as a reminder of the time it owned Land Rover, Hill Descent Control. HDC uses the brakes to control the vehicle on extreme downhill sections and was first used on Land Rover’s Freelander. When BMW sold Land Rover to Ford, it kept hold of HDC for its own 4x4s.

Styling of the vehicle is much more influenced by BMW’s cars than off-road vehicles, and the look is much more crossover than 4x4. One of the styling points BMW stresses is the kick up in the waistline at the rear side window, which makes the window almost triangular. At the rear, there is a tailgate that underlines the X3’s crossover status – it appears to be not much bigger than that of a 5-Series wagon, and is unlikely to swallow the bulky objects more traditional off-roaders accept with ease.

The first engine available in the X3 is likely to be the 230-hp 3.0-liter six, which should give a maximum speed of around 130 mph, extended to 139 in sports trim. The engines for the X3 will not be direct transplants from BMW’s road car range because in the search for a lower center of gravity, the front drive shaft passes through the engine’s oil pan.

The interior of the X3 is also influenced by BMW’s road car styling, with twin instruments in a binnacle ahead of the driver and luxurious, rather than practical, furnishings. Equipment is top-notch too, with a retractable sat-nav screen, wheel-mounted radio controls and all the usual car-style air-conditioning and comfort items. One thing missing is the company’s controversial iDrive system.

Unlike the X5, which is built in the USA, the X3 will be built at the Steyr plant in Austria. Prices have not yet been released, but a figure of around $40,000 for the base model would not seem to be unrealistic.

Link:

Edmunds Preview of X3

Preview

What Edmunds.com Says: BMW's entry into the burgeoning "premium mini-SUV" market will likely have excellent road manners, but its small size makes us wonder just how much utility it will really provide.

First Drive: 2004 BMW X3
Finally, a True 3 Series Killer
By D. John Booth

Both much anticipated and eagerly awaited, it seems like an eternity that we've been waiting for BMW's X3. After all, it's been four long years since the introduction of the X5, and that vehicle has been such a roaring success that it doesn't take a rocket scientist to guess that a smaller, cheaper version, based on the 3 Series sedan, would be an easy sell.

After all, not everybody can pony up the $40,000-plus needed for the larger X5. Besides, the X3 is the (semi) off-road equivalent of BMW's 3 Series, the automaker's signature sedan and most probably the strongest nameplate in the entire luxury segment. But, as much of a slam dunk as that would seem to be, there is much pressure on the X3 to perform. Coming off some controversial remakes of popular models (the 7 Series and Z4), the X3 has to be an unabashed hit, both in the handling department (where everybody, by and large, expects no less than another home run) and styling (where consistent praise has been hard to find recently).

For the latter, the X3 is likely to avoid the barbs thrown the 745i's and Z4's way. Yes, the front bumper is a little overdone, with perhaps a little too much Pontiac-like cladding, but from all other angles the X3 is a sweetheart. The side view is especially appealing, as is the rear. Even at the front, the cladding is not so bad on darker models

A friend on the preorder list found out last Friday that the X3 has been delayed till this April.

Neech, did he tell you why??

But then again, BMW is not Toyota/Lexus...so it's understandable.

Manufacturing line delays in Austria.

First Drive:
2004 BMW X3
Story and photos by Richard Russell

Mijas, Spain - BMW

X3 leaves sweet impression despite faults

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