BMW X3 xDrive28d brings diesel power to US at New York show
BMW introduced the diesel-powered X3 xDrive28d at the 2014 New York Auto Show, expanding its US SUV line-up with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine and all-wheel drive.
BMW unveiled the X3 xDrive28d at the 2014 New York Auto Show, marking the arrival of a diesel-powered X3 for the US market. The new variant features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine, paired with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The X3 xDrive28d’s 2.0-litre diesel produces 190 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque, offering more power and torque than the previous diesel unit in the X3 range. According to BMW, this enables the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds, giving it strong mid-range response for its segment.
BMW’s decision to bring a diesel X3 to the US reflects growing, if still cautious, interest in diesel technology among American buyers. While diesels have long been popular in Europe, US perceptions have historically linked the fuel to heavy trucks rather than premium SUVs. The X3 xDrive28d aims to challenge that image, offering the efficiency and torque of a modern diesel in a compact luxury SUV package.
Diesel expansion in BMW’s US line-up
The arrival of the X3 xDrive28d follows BMW’s broader strategy to expand its diesel offerings stateside. The company has previously offered diesel engines in the 3 Series and 5 Series saloons, and the X5 SUV. By adding the diesel X3, BMW is targeting buyers who want lower running costs and longer range without sacrificing all-wheel drive or premium features.
BMW’s xDrive system is standard on the 28d, distributing power to all four wheels for improved traction in poor weather or on loose surfaces. The eight-speed automatic aims to balance performance with fuel economy, a key selling point for diesel buyers. Full US EPA fuel economy figures were not released at the show, but BMW positioned the X3 xDrive28d as the most efficient X3 in the range at launch.
Competition and context
The diesel X3’s debut came as BMW sought to regain its lead over Mercedes-Benz in the US luxury market. The move also put BMW in direct competition with other premium diesel SUVs, though at the time, options for four-cylinder diesel SUVs were limited in the US. The introduction of the xDrive28d gave BMW a head start as rivals considered their own diesel offerings.
