2015 BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle Debuts

Refreshed SUV comes in rear-wheel drive for the first time

BMW has pulled the wraps off its latest car, which is actually a mid-size SUV. The vehicle is the BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle. For the first time, the 2015 model will be available in a rear-drive platform. Typically, the X3 is an all wheel drive vehicle. The new entry-level model of the X3, the X3 sDrive28i is the only version available in rear-wheel drive.

All other versions of the vehicle are AWD. The X3 will go on sale this spring as a 2015 model. Pricing starts at $39,320 for the X3 sDrive28i entry model, the X3 xDrive28i with AWD starts at $40,725. The top of the line version is the X3 xDrive35i starting at $45,825.

BMW will offer a diesel version for the X3 dubbed the X3 xDrive28d starting at $42,825. The entry models will use a turbo four-cylinder engine producing 180hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The top of the line X3 offers a 300hp V6 engine. The new X3 is redesigned on the inside and out. There will be an xLine version and an M sport version of the X3.

Both versions will get special touches on the outside with the M Sport offering an aerodynamics package for the car. LED headlights are optional on all models. The x3 uses a new 8-speed automatic transmission to help reduce fuel consumption.