Paris motor show report - BMW X3

The new BMW X3 gets its world premiere here in Paris. It goes on sale in the UK on November 20 only with diesel engines, and it'll cost a little less than the model it replaces.

Gone are the old car's boxy looks, because this new 4x4 has a more upright grille and rounded profile, and apes other members of the BMW family such as the 5 Series and X5.

The 182bhp 20d has a 2.0-litre engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 30d comes with a 255bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 20d does an average of 49.6mpg with a manual gearbox and 50.4mpg with the optional auto trasnmission, with CO2 emissions of just under 150g/km. The 30d is also efficient, at 46.3mpg and 160g/km.

High-spec as standard
When it goes on sale in November, the X3 will initially be available only in SE trim. Leather upholstery, front and rear parking sensors, a multi-function steering wheel, BMW's iDrive central control unit and display screen plus climate control will all be standard. Electronic suspension, sports or active steering and satellite-navigation are among an extensive list of options.

Prices start at £30,490, £115 less than the current model.