2022 BMW X3 ( G01 ) xDrive30d

New front apron and vertical air intakes

Below the headlights, vertical air intakes arranged in a triangular interpretation frame the front bumper. In the new front apron, taut and amply-sized surfaces in body colour and the robust underbody protection reinforce the presence and high-quality aura of the new BMW X3. The window graphics and roof rails are in satin-finished aluminium as standard. The BMW X3 xDrive30e with plug-in hybrid drive also bears an "electrified by i" emblem on the front wing, while an additional blue ring adorns all BMW logos on this engine version, including those on the wheel hub covers.

Newly designed rear apron and free-form tailpipe trims

The rear section of the new BMW X3 offers greater clarity as a result of various measures. A black border gives the full LED rear lights a more precise appearance, while the narrower light graphic now includes a three-dimensionally modelled pincer contour and horizontal turn signals integrated in filigree style. The emphasis on horizontal lines, for example in the concave area at the lower end of the tailgate, contributes to the tidy impression of the rear. This now visually extends across the entire width of the vehicle, since the reflectors have been assigned a new place in the bumper. The newly designed underbody protection provides a powerful finish to the road. Its elaborate paintwork makes it look as if it were milled from a solid block of aluminium. Another new feature is the flush-fitting free-form tailpipe trims, which are now larger and sportier, conveying a more powerful presence.

Aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels available as an option

The BMW X3 is equipped as standard with silver 18-inch alloy wheels V-spoke 618 and 225/60 R18 tyres. As an optional extra, the 19-inch BMW aerodynamic wheel 842 in Jet Black Bicolor, previously reserved solely for the BMW iX3 are available, along with tyres of the size 245/50 R19. This has a singlesection plastic insert that is attached to the aluminium wheel with clips and a spring washer. The resulting increased surface area of the wheel, in conjunction with the air curtains, calms the air flow around the front wheel and front wheel arch. This improves aerodynamics, thereby reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Thanks to the use of the plastic trim, the wheel is around 15 per cent lighter than a wheel cast entirely from aluminium. In addition, the insert can easily be removed at any time, such as when using snow chains, and is simple to replace in the event of any damage.

M sports package with specific exterior details

The M sports package gives the BMW X3 a sportier orientation. The specific front apron features significantly larger air inlets and inserts finished in high-gloss black, as well as more pronounced air curtains. If the extended range of features is selected for the M High Gloss Shadow Line package for window graphics and roof rails, the frame and the bars of the BMW kidney grille are also finished in high-gloss black. The sportier rear bumper includes a more striking diffuser finished in Dark Shadow along with two additional side air-curtain-panels in high-gloss black. The standard trim includes the new 19-inch light alloy wheel Y-Spoke 887M in Midnight Grey Bicolor with 245/50 R19 tyres. 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are additionally available as an option, as are the M sports brakes with blue or red brake calipers.

Further M insignia in the M Performance cars

The BMW X3 M40i and BMW X3 M40d offer added visual differentiation. Both vehicles show their affiliation to the BMW M GmbH portfolio with a specific BMW M kidney grille. In addition to a chrome frame, it bears the typical M double grille bars in high-gloss black and with an M logo. While the same aprons as in the M sports package are to be found at the front and rear, the aerodynamically optimised M exterior mirrors in highgloss black, the free-form tailpipe trims in black chrome and the striking "Two Teeth" design ensure a distinctive look. The BMW X3 M40i and BMW X3 M40d are fitted as standard with 20-inch M light alloy wheels double-spoke 699M in Orbit Grey with the mixed tyres 245/45 R20 at the front and 275/40 R20 at the rear. As an optional extra, these wheels are available in Jet Black, while other exclusive options include the 21- inch M light alloy wheels double spoke 718M in Jet Black burnished.

Eleven paint finishes to choose from

Following the redesign of the BMW X3, BMW offers a total of eleven paint finishes in the regular range, including the two non-metallic finishes Alpine White and Black. The metallic paint finish Skyscraper Grey (from 12/21) is new, supplementing the existing metallic finishes Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue and Black Sapphire. From the M sports package upwards, the new M Brooklyn Grey metallic is available in addition to the familiar metallic finish M Carbon Black. Also available for the first time for the BMW X3 are the two BMW Individual paint finishes Aventurine Red and Tanzanite Blue, replacing the BMW Individual finish Sunstone. For the first time there is also a choice of numerous special BMW Individual paint finishes such as the matt finish Frozen Deep Grey. The range of special finishes available is to be further expanded in the future.

Interior and equipment

The new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 now welcome passengers in a significantly revised ambience. The centre console in the two X models is drawn from the current BMW 4-Series. The free-standing, central Control Display with touch function now offers a screen diagonal of 10.25 inches as standard in all vehicles. A 12.3-inch version of the touch display is also available as an option. The significantly improved range of standard equipment now also includes sports seats with upholstery featuring a new generation of Sensatec as well as automatic air conditioning with 3-zone control, which allows separate temperature settings for the driver and front passenger as well as separate climate control at the rear. In order to make the vehicle configuration process clearer and more straightforward for customers, not least by reducing the number of conflicts, the complexity of the equipment lines and optional extras has deliberately been reduced by 30 per cent.

10.25-inch display as standard and modified control units

As part of the revision, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 now have a much larger central information display, with a standard touchscreen diagonal of 10.25 inches. A 12.3-inch version is also available as an optional extra. Below the monitor is the control panel for the now standard 3-zone automatic air conditioning, in which the centre air vents are integrated. In addition to buttons and rocker switches for operating various automatic air conditioning functions, the heated rear window and the heated seats, the control panel includes an LCD display as well as a button each for activating the hazard warning lights and the driver assistance systems. Repositioned below it is the audio control panel, which like the redesigned centre console is finished in high-gloss black as standard. In addition to the cupholder and a model-specific emblem, the centre console accommodates the newly designed control island with the gear selector lever, buttons for the start/stop system, the electric parking brake, hill descent control and various driving experience functions as well as the BMW Controller. The engine start button is now positioned here, too. The surfaces are finished in matt black, while the rotary knob of the BMW Controller has a galvanised rhombic structure. This new control island in the BMW X3 and BMW X4 is drawn from the current BMW 3-Series.

Sports seats with Sensatec upholstery as standard

The seats of the BMW X3 and BMW X4 have been significantly upgraded. Sports seats with seat heating now come as standard, featuring firm upholstery and humps as well as pronounced side bolsters to enhance the sporty look and provide improved lateral support in dynamic driving situations. Optional electric control functions with memory and electric lumbar support are available. The seats are upholstered in high-quality, leather-like Sensatec in the new Ray grain. The main seat surfaces are perforated. The new upholstery offers a natural feel and a high-quality appearance while being easy to clean: it is also used on the rear seats, centre console, centre armrest, armrests and pull handles on the doors, as well as the instrument panel, with contrasting stitching as an optional extra. The sports seats and the interior equipment are available in the colours Black, Canberra Beige, Cognac and Taco Ted. Optional sports seats are available in Vernasca leather in black, black with blue or red contrast stitching, as well as in Mocha, Oyster and Taco Red with manual or extensive electric controls. They also offer manual seat depth adjustment and, on the driver's seat, electric adjustment of the backrest width. As an optional extra, it is also possible to combine them with the BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery in Tartufo or Tacora Red/Black Bicolor. The optional air-conditioned seats with active seat ventilation for driver and front passenger can be ordered with perforated Vernasca leather in Black or Mocha, while the M sports seats in Vernasca leather are available in black with blue contrast stitching or in Cognac.

Rearranged selection of trim finishers

New electroplated trim elements on the air vents, starting with the basic variant, adds a touch of elegance while emphasising the horizontal lines in the interior. Meanwhile the selection of interior trim finishers has been newly structured. In the standard trim, the interior trim finishers are finished in high-gloss black, but they are also optionally available in fine-finish Aluminium, dark high-gloss Oak and the new variant openpore Ash. The optional Piano Black high-gloss trim is drawn from the BMW Individual range. The interior trim finishers in Aluminium Rhombicle dark, which are now also available in the BMW X3, come as standard in the M sports package, while the M interior trim finishers Carbon Fibre are available as an option. From the M sports package upwards, the M leather steering wheel with multifunction is a standard feature, while contrast stitching in the M colours and an open 6 o'clock spoke are added in the M40i and M40d models.

Extended ambient lighting functions

Now with additional functions, the optional extra Ambient Light features contour lighting above the decorative trim in the dashboard and ambient lighting that shines gently downwards below the accent trim to create a particularly high-quality, relaxing atmosphere in the interior. When unlocking and locking the vehicle, the contour lighting in the door trim panels flashes, while a flashing light on the instrument panel signals an incoming telephone call. A door that has been left open is indicated by a red flashing light on the door in question; when the driver leaves the vehicle, the ambient lighting switches off from the rear to the front. If comfort access is also fitted in addition to the Ambient Light option, the welcome function is also supported by the fact that the ambient lighting switches on from the front to the rear. The brightness of the ambient lighting can be adjusted independently of the interior lighting. Selection of a total of eleven colour ensembles, six colours (orange, lilac, mint, bronze, blue and white) and functions such as "dimmed when driving at night" is available in the menu of the central information display. In the night design, the central monitor seems literally to float above the instrument panel.

Comfortable options

The BMW X3 and BMW X4 offer a range of other comfortable options. The Ambient Air package allows the interior to be pleasantly scented with a total of eight available fragrances in three intensities. In addition, it purifies the air through simultaneous ionisation, thereby contributing to general well-being on board. The BMW display key - available in Germany in conjunction with the auxiliary heating system - has a 2.2- inch touch display which provides information on fuel level, range and service and maintenance due, as well as indicating whether the windows and the optional sunroof are closed.

Rear versatility and a large luggage compartment volume

In order to increase seating comfort at the rear, the backrest of the rear seat with 40:20:40 split as standard can be optionally and individually adjusted in several stages in its inclination via the cargo function. For increased functionality, the optional storage package includes an adaptive fastening system. The standard load volume of 550 litres can be increased to up to 1,600 litres in the BMW X3 and from 525 litres to a maximum of 1,430 litres in the BMW X4.

Engines and drive

The new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 demonstrate increasing electrification with modern hybrid technology in connection with all seven drive systems available in Germany. In addition to the BMW X3 xDrive30e with plug-in hybrid drive, which has been in production since December 2019, all 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines in the two model series now use 48-volt mild hybrid technology. After the three available diesel engines were converted to the mild-hybrid-system in the course of 2020, the three petrol engines are now also being fitted with this technology including a 48-volt-starter generator, ensuring even better driving performance with lower fuel consumption and increased driving comfort. The power spectrum in Germany ranges from 135 kW/184 hp to 265 kW/360 hp, and all BMW X3 and BMW X4 models in Germany are equipped with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard.

48-volt mild hybrid technology with 48-volt starter generator

The mild hybrid technology used in all combustion engines draws on a particularly powerful 48-volt starter generator and an additional battery, so it has significantly expanded possibilities when it comes to brake energy recuperation. When the accelerator pedal is no longer pressed, the generator converts the kinetic energy into electricity, which is stored in the 48-volt battery. Recuperation in coasting mode is particularly intense in driving experience switch mode SPORT. The deceleration effect created in addition to the engine drag torque is also harnessed during braking manoeuvres. A specific braking system familiar from the plug-in hybrid models ensures an on-demand and efficiency-optimised combination of electric and mechanical deceleration at all times.

The energy obtained by means of recuperation and stored in the 48-volt battery is also used to supply the 12-volt electrical system and the electrically operated vehicle functions connected to it. It can also be used to generate additional drive power. For this purpose, the drive power flows back to the 48-volt starter generator, which then takes on the role of an electric drive and supports the combustion engine. This enables the engine to run as often as possible in an efficiency-optimised load range so as to reduce consumption peaks. What is more, the 48- volt starter generator creates an electric boost during acceleration.

This instantly available additional output of 8 kW/11 hp supports dynamic power delivery. The result is optimised spontaneity when starting off as well as an acceleration build-up during intermediate sprints.

The powerful starter generator also causes the combustion engine to switch off and start with a high degree of spontaneity and low levels of vibration. This also optimises comfort when using the auto start/stop function as well as the gliding function. If the vehicle is slowed down when approaching a junction or the end of a traffic jam, for example, the combustion engine can be switched off as soon as the speed drops below 15 km/h. Available at speeds of between 25 and 160 km/h, the gliding function now also causes the engine to be switched off completely instead of being disconnected from the drive train.

Three more supreme and efficient diesel engines

The three diesel engines on offer ensure supreme and efficient mobility. The engine in the BMW X3 xDrive20d and the BMW X4 xDrive20d delivers an output of 140 kW/190 hp and offers a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The two models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 213 km/h.

The BMW i3 and the BMW X4 xDrive30d is powered by an in-line 6-cylinder engine with a capacity of 3.0 litres. The diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp at 4,000 rpm and an impressive maximum torque of 650 Nm between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. This means that both body variants reach the 100 km/h mark from standstill after just 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 245 km/h.

The BMW X3 M40d and the BMW X4 M40d are even more powerful

Their BMW M Performance diesel engine generates a maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp and delivers a maximum torque of 700 Nm from just 1,750 rpm. As a result, acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h is possible in just 4.9 seconds, while the top speed is cut off at 250 km/h.

All diesel units feature BMW TwinPower turbocharging with variable turbine geometry and common-rail direct injection at maximum injection pressures of 2,500 to 2,700 bar. For emission control, BMW BluePerformance technology is on board with particulate filter, oxidation and NOx storage catalytic converter along with an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection.

Powerful petrol engines with four and six cylinders

The petrol engine range includes two 4-cylinder engines and a powerful in-line 6-cylinder. Their innovative BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology includes TwinScroll turbocharging, direct high-precision injection, the variable camshaft control system double VANOS and the fully variable valve control system Valvetronic, while emission control is supported by a petrol engine particulate filter. Additional efficiency and a power boost of 8 kW/11 hp when needed is provided by 48-volt-mild-hybrid-technology.

The BMW X3 xDrive20i and the BMW X4 xDrive20i are powered by a dynamic and efficient 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine. It generates an output of 135 kW/184 hp and now delivers a maximum torque of 300 Nm between 1,350 and 4,000 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 8.4 seconds, while the top speed is 215 km/h. In the BMW X3 xDrive30i and the BMW X4 xDrive30i, the 2.0-litre-4-cylinder engine delivers an output of 180 kW/245 hp with almost identical fuel consumption figures to those of the 20i. The maximum torque of 350 Nm goes on stream between 1,460 and 4,800 rpm. These two variants accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, while their top speed is 235 km/h.

The M Performance in-line 6-cylinder engine in the BMW X3 M40i and the BMW X4 M40i is designed for maximum revving and superior pulling power. It generates an output of 265 kW/360 hp and delivers a maximum torque of 500 Nm, which is available between 1,900 and 5,000 rpm. Thus equipped, the 100 km/h mark is reached from a standstill after just 4.9 second, while the top speed is 250 km/h (cut off).

Plug-in hybrid with an electric range of up to 50 kilometres

The BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid model is reserved for the Sports Activity Vehicle. Its system consists of a 4-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor whose power is transmitted to all four wheels. Their joint system output of 215 kW/292 hp can be increased by up to 30 kW/41 hp by temporary use of the electric motor's peak output. The BMW X3 xDrive30e takes just 6.1 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h. It has a lithium-ion high-voltage battery that enables a range of up to 50 kilometres.

8-speed Steptronic transmission for all engines

All engine versions are combined with 8-speed Steptronic transmissions specifically matched to the respective engine characteristics, contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions with their optimised efficiency. The BMW X3 M40i, BMW X3 M40d and all BMW X4 models feature the otherwise optional 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including paddle shifts and Launch Control as standard.

BMW xDrive: precise power distribution with optimised efficiency

BMW xDrive all-wheel drive makes a significant contribution to the versatile sporty flair of the new BMW X3 and BMW X4. The latest edition of the system is characterised by reduced weight and optimised internal efficiency. In addition, the precise electronic control of the intelligent allwheel drive ensures especially sporty power distribution that is typical of the brand. Its rear-wheel orientation makes dynamic cornering in particular an especially intense experience. In addition, BMW xDrive optimises both driving stability and traction over rough terrain.

High-quality suspension technology with an individual set-up

With its high-quality and specifically matched suspension technology, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 offer plenty of agility as well as a high level of ride comfort. All BMW X4 and BMW X3 from the M sports package upwards are also fitted with variable sports steering as standard in addition to the M sports suspension. The design of the electromechanical power steering with its set-up geared towards particularly dynamic driving characteristics ensures high precision when taking bends in sporty style as well as supreme straight-line stability. At the same time, the speed-related Servotronic power steering enables comfortable manoeuvring. With the optional adaptive suspension, the electronically controlled dampers adapt to both road conditions and driving style.

For either a sporty or comfortable basic set-up, there is a choice of two maps that can be activated using the driving experience switch.

A powerful lightweight braking system and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) also contribute to sporty and safe handling characteristics. In addition to the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), the range of functions also includes the ADB-X electronic differential lock, CBC Cornering Brake Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control, start-off assistant and HDC Hill Descent Control. Performance Control - a standard feature in the BMW X3 from the M sports package upwards as well as in all BMW X4 models - increases agility by distributing drive torque to the rear wheels depending on the situation.

Special dynamic performance in the M40i and M40d models

The M40i and M40d models of the BMW X3 and BMW X4 offer even more dynamic performance. They come as standard with a flapcontrolled M sports exhaust system, M sports brakes and an M sports suspension with M performance-specific set-up. An adaptive M sports suspension is available as an option, offering an even greater spread between ride comfort and sportiness. In addition, the BMW xDrive allwheel drive system is significantly more rear-oriented. Integrated in DSC and acting on the rear wheels, Performance Control has been given a new set-up to provide the typical M level of dynamics, agility and traction.

Aerodynamic fine-tuning with success

With a drag coefficient from cW = 0.29, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 boast the best levels in their segment. The reduction of air resistance not only helps reduce fuel consumption, it also offers benefits in terms of noise comfort. In addition to aerodynamically optimised vehicle proportions, the two models feature an underbody structure with additional trim elements for example, combining to create an unprecedented degree of closure. Further detail optimisations such as the roof spoiler with lateral aero edges and the active air flap control round off the range of aerodynamic measures. The latter system controls the cooling air for the engine, brakes and air conditioning more variably and in addition to aerodynamic benefits offers further savings potential in terms of energy and heat management.

Assistance systems

In refreshing the BMW X3 and BMW X4, BMW has reorganised and once again significantly expanded the range of modern driver assistance systems to enhance both comfort and safety. The Driving Assistant Professional, available for the first time as an option in these model series, offers the driver comfortable relief and increased safety in driving situations where there is a conscious desire for assistance.. Parking Assistant Plus now also includes the reverse assistant, which helps retrace a completed line in reverse. Another new feature in the BMW X3 and BMW X4 is the optionally available BMW Drive Recorder, which takes videos around the vehicle.

Assistance systems for enhanced comfort and safety

The new BMW X3 and the new BMW X4 offer numerous modern driver assistance systems that enhance comfort and safety. They process camera images and data collected by ultrasonic and radar sensors. Standard systems include cruise control with braking function, as well as front collision warning with braking function for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. The next level is offered by the optional Driving Assistant. This includes a lane change and lane departure warning function with lane return guidance, rear cross-traffic alert and the traffic sign detection function Speed Limit Info including No Passing Indicator. If an imminent rear-end collision is detected, it also warns following traffic by activating the hazard warning flashers in double frequency.

Driving Assistant Professional with extensive additional functions

One of the numerous functions of the optional Driving Assistant Professional is the active cruise control with Stop & Go-function, which can be used at speeds of up to 210 km/h. Adjusting to the respective traffic situation and environmental conditions, this adaptively maintains a safety distance to vehicles in front that can be selected in four stages; it can also brake the vehicle to a standstill and automatically start it again. It now also offers improved functionality in the city and can actively stop at stop signs as well as red lights in Germany, reminding the driver to move off again when the light changes from red to green. The right-of-way warning system alerts the driver visually and acoustically to the possibility of missing a priority situation - mainly at intersections. The intersection warning now has an additional city brake function that actively triggers a braking manoeuvre in the event of an imminent collision with cross-traffic. The avoidance manoeuvre assistant now also reacts to pedestrians and cyclists. The emergency stop assistant is able to guide the vehicle for a short time in the event of a medical emergency and bring it to a controlled stop in its own lane. In the event of a traffic jam on the motorway, the emergency lane assistant automatically recognises the need to form a lane for emergency services and guides the vehicle to the ideal edge of the current lane according to the situation.

The already familiar steering/lane guidance assistant, which helps the driver keep to the centre of the lane up to a speed of 210 km/h by means of corrective steering interventions, now also works in narrow passages. For this purpose, it now recognises necessary lane changes ahead as part of active navigation guidance and supports the driver in keeping to the route calculated by the navigation system when on multi-lane roads. When approaching a motorway junction or exit, a display in the instrument cluster indicates the need for a lane change, which the driver can then carry out particularly conveniently using the lane change assistant. Already included in the familiar Driving Assistant Plus in the existing BMW X3 and BMW X4 were the lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection and the automatic Speed Limit Assist, which automatically adopts detected speed limits and adapts the car's speed to the route, as well as the front cross-traffic alert and wrong way alert. These functions are now also part of Driving Assistant Professional.

The 3D environment visualisation Assisted View in the instrument cluster provides an overview of which Driving Assistant Professional assistance systems are activated and what functions they offer. In a three-dimensional representation of the vehicle and its surroundings, passenger cars, trucks and motorcycles detected by cameras and sensors are shown on the lane currently being used as well as on any neighbouring lanes. Vehicles moving within a critical distance are highlighted. Graphic symbols indicate driving manoeuvres that can be initiated in the given situation using the assistance systems available.

Parking Assistant now includes the reverse assistant

The BMW X3 and BMW X4 feature Park Distance Control including AutoPDC with ultrasound sensor at the front and rear of the vehicle as standard. The optional Parking Assistant helps select and use parallel or perpendicular parking spaces, handles steering tasks, acceleration and braking manoeuvres and gearshifts, and can automatically back out of gaps that are parallel to the road; in addition, it now includes the reverse assistant. This takes over the steering tasks when manoeuvring backwards by travelling in the opposite direction along the line that was last travelled forwards. The driver simply has to concentrate on operating the accelerator and brake pedals and keeping an eye on the surroundings. A distance of up to 50 metres can be covered in this way, at a speed of up to 9 km/h. Parking Assistant Plus offers an even better overview. With the help of Park View, Panorama View and 3D Top View, a 360-degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings is shown from different perspectives on the Control Display. In addition, the driver can have a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its surroundings transmitted to their smartphone by means of Remote 3D View.

New on board: BMW Drive Recorder

One feature already familiar from other BMW models is the optionally available BMW Drive Recorder. The latter uses the cameras of the driver assistance systems to record video images around the vehicle; it can then be used to store these images so they can be played back on the Control Display while the vehicle is stationary or exported via the USB interface. For example, rides through spectacular landscapes or eye-catching manoeuvres on the race track can be captured and shared. On activation of the BMW Drive Recorder, videos lasting 40 seconds are recorded and saved. In the event of a collision, up to 20 seconds of footage from before and after the impact is automatically saved.

Display and operating system, BMW ConnectedDrive

With BMW Live Cockpit Plus as standard and intelligent networking including innovative digital services based on BMW Operating System 7, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 now offer particularly close interaction between driver and vehicle. The driver can configure up to ten pages of live content on the Control Display in the main menu, each with two to four pads (tiles); what is more, greater personalisation of content and displays is now possible, too. Intuitive multi-modal operation has been further optimised: depending on the situation, the driver has a choice between touch operation on the Control Display, the tried-and-tested iDrive Controller, the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and voice control. Digital services include the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Connected Music and Remote Software Upgrade.

BMW Live Cockpit Plus with 10.25-inch display as standard

The new BMW X3 and BMW X4 now already come equipped with BMW Live Cockpit Plus as standard. This includes the iDrive operating system with a Control Display which is now at least 10.25 inches in size and a Touch Controller, as well as an instrument cluster in Black Panel look with a 5.1-inch colour display at the centre. The package also includes a multimedia and navigation system, two USB ports for data transfer and a WLAN interface. A permanently installed SIM card with 4G LTE Connectivity and the Connected Package Professional, which is also standard, enable the use of digital services such as BMW TeleServices, Intelligent Emergency Call, Real Time Traffic Information including hazard warning, Remote Services and much more besides. BMW Live Cockpit Plus can optionally be supplemented with the BMW Head-Up Display: this projects driving-related information in full colour onto the windscreen, in other words directly into the driver's field of vision.

Two 12.3-inch displays in BMW Live Cockpit Professional

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional offers a fully digital display network: the high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and the Control Display each have a screen size of 12.3 inches. The fully digital instrument display has space for a navigation map section, media content, status displays for the driver assistance systems or the 3D environment visualisation Assisted View.

New generation of navigation with BMW Maps

One of the most important innovations in the area of digital services is BMW Maps. The cloud-based system enables significant performance improvement, a high degree of accuracy and simplified destination entry. The new-generation navigation system offers extremely fast and dynamic route calculation based on precise real-time traffic data delivered at short intervals. The arrival time is calculated in advance, taking into account the usual traffic volume along the entire route. Comprehensive traffic data is now also available for smaller roads, too. The selection of a destination can be made by free text input, and search results are then sorted precisely according to relevance. Alternatively, the destination can be entered conveniently by means of voice input. So-called points of interest (POI) along the route are described in more detail - complete with ratings, opening hours and photos.

In addition, BMW Maps with Connected Parking provides drivers with even more detailed support in the search for a vacant parking space near their destination. When selecting the navigation destination, the driver receives an indication of the parking situation at their destination at the predicted time of arrival Shortly before arrival, helpful information about the nearest car park is provided, along with suggestions for a route on which there is a greater likelihood of finding a parking space near the destination. The familiar On-Street Parking Information and ParkNow services are intelligently integrated into the functional range of BMW Maps. Meanwhile, Connected Charging helps find charging stations for the BMW X3 xDrive30e.

Smartphone connectivity and integration of 3rd party services

BMW has always taken a leading role in connecting the vehicle with the customer's digital ecosystem. For example, BMW was the first company in the industry to comprehensively integrate the iPod into its vehicles, offer Apple CarPlay on a completely wireless basis and implement the keyless vehicle access system Digital Key with the Apple iPhone.

BMW Live Cockpit Plus and BMW Live Cockpit Professional offer optimised smartphone integration, for example via Apple CarPlay. This allows the use of a variety of digital services such as the digital voice service Siri, various map apps, music streaming services such as Apple Music and the messaging service WhatsApp. The systems are integrated directly in the display and operating system via a wireless LAN connection between the respective smartphone and the vehicle. Here, the driver can view all the important information from the apps on the Control Display and also - in intelligently processed form - in the instrument cluster and the optional BMW Head-Up Display.

With Android Auto™, the BMW Group has added another customerrelevant service to its range of seamless in-vehicle connectivity. Android Auto in a BMW offers safe, straightforward use of smartphone functions such as music, media or messaging apps while driving. With the help of Google Assistant, the customer can interact with their smartphone and the actions performed are shown on the vehicle's information display. Highlights of the interaction between Android Auto and BMW include convenient and wireless networking and the intelligent integration of Google MapsTM navigation instructions in the BMW Head-up Display.

Deep integration of Amazon Alexa makes it possible to use Amazon's voice service inside the vehicle in the same way as the customer is already used to doing at home. Editing shopping lists, checking messages and playing music is now even easier. It is also possible to control compatible smart home devices from inside the vehicle. With the help of the My BMW app, Amazon Alexa can be installed in the vehicle in just a few steps.

The My BMW app is available in over 40 countries for both iOS and Android operating systems and can be downloaded free of charge from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. As a new universal interface to the vehicle, it provides information about the vehicle's condition at all times. Depending on which equipment options are fitted, it also enables remote access functions such as vehicle location, locking and unlocking the doors or recording the vehicle's surroundings (Remote 3D View). Also, destination addresses can be sent from the smartphone to the vehicle's navigation system, for example. The range of functions for electrified vehicles has also been expanded; one example here is that the electrically powered range is displayed even more clearly. The My BMW app also makes it even easier for customers to log in to any current BMW model using their personal BMW ID. For example, the user information and settings stored in the BMW ID can now also be transferred to the vehicle very conveniently by scanning a QR code displayed on the central screen.

Enhanced functionality for the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is also constantly gaining additional capabilities in the BMW X3 and BMW X4, creating an even more intensive bond between driver and vehicle. With the digital companion activated by voice control (e.g. "Hey BMW") or at the touch of a button, naturally spoken instructions can now be used to regulate the air conditioning, open and close the windows or change the driving experience switch modes, for instance. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can also be used to access the new News app - which enables passengers to have the latest news read out loud to them - and it is able to learn routines that enhance both comfort and driving pleasure in certain situations. For example, the side window on the driver's side can be automatically opened on arrival at a selected location defined via GPS coordinates - such as a garage or car park entrance. The system also recognises whether it is being addressed by the driver or the front passenger and reacts accordingly - for example by adjusting the air conditioning on one side only. With the integration of Amazon Alexa Car, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 also have access to more than 100,000 Amazon Skills.

Remote Software Upgrade updates "over-the-air"

Since 2018 and the introduction of BMW Operating System 7, it has been possible for drivers of BMW models to keep their vehicle constantly up to date with the latest software status using Remote Software Upgrade. The BMW Group is one of the key drivers in the field of functional overthe- air upgrades. Among European car manufacturers, BMW Group carried out the largest-scale upgrade campaigns in 2020. Thanks to Remote Software Upgrade, the BMW X3 and BMW X4 also remain consistently up to date with the latest software. The upgrades can include content ranging from new services to improved vehicle functions and can be downloaded "over-the-air", either via the My BMW app on a smartphone or directly into the vehicle via the SIM card installed in it. Furthermore, intelligent networking offers the option to integrate additional functions into the vehicle at a later date. The options that can be retrofitted digitally include the high beam assistant and BMW Drive Recorder.