BMW X3 pictures revealed

* Exterior and interior pics of new 4x4 * Sold only as a diesel in the UK * On sale November 20...

BMW X3 pictures revealed

BMW has released pictures of the new X3, which goes on sale here in November.

The new X3 will be sold only as a diesel in the UK. The 20d has a 182bhp four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. It manages 49.6mpg as a manual and 50.4mpg with the optional auto gearbox, with CO2 emissions of just under 150g/km.

The X3 will have BMW's xDrive permanent four-wheel drive system the company has no plans to follow the likes of Volvo by offering a two-wheel-drive model to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The xDrive system normally sends 40% of engine torque to the front wheels and 60% to the rears, but a greater portion can be switched rearwards if the driver accelerates through a corner to help stabilise the car. With the optional sports steering, the inside front wheel is also braked to help tuck the car into bends.

It goes on sale on November 20, initially 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 automatic air-conditioning will be standard.

Electronic damping, sports or active steering and satellite-navigation are among an extensive list of options.

The car costs 30,490, 115 less than the current model.