Pecuron world

ENDEARING FEATURES:The X3's ride is never harsh and the suspension never crashes through craters.

BMW launched the X3 in India a year ago but you could have missed it.With only the high-revving but thirsty 2.5 petrol on offer,demand was bound to be limited.SUVs must have a diesel engine if they are to stand a chance and that's exactly what BMW is now offering in its junior 4x4.The X3's two-litre diesel,the same as in the 320d develops 177bhp.In gear performance is strong-20-80kph takes only 5.7sec,which is good for a car weighing 1825kg.the 2.0-litre displays few of a diesel engine's less endearing characteristics.The X3's hydralic steering rack comes as a pleasant surprise too.The X3's 2.0d costs Rs 47.41 lakh.It's a negligible Rs 1 lakh cheaper than the petrol X3 but to put it in perspective,it's a whopping Rs.11.5 lakh pricier than the 320d sallon with which it shares many bits.The price difference would have been less if,like the 3-series,the X3 was assembled in India but like all imports it is subjected to punitive duties.Still,if you can ignore the price and get behind the wheel,you will find the diesel X3 to be the most appropriate BMWs for India yet.

The driver's seat is powered,There's a six-CD changer,parking sensors,climate control,auto lights and cruise control