BMW Announces Pricing for New X3

Recently, we declared the return of good-looking BMWs. The 6-Series Coupe Concept is the best looking upcoming BMW we've seen in a long time.

And it proved the new 7-Series and 5-Series models aren't  anomalies - the whole lineup is being brought in line where the pre-Bangle BMWs left off. This is a good thing.

The X3 crossover is a vehicle that was birthed during the Bangle years, and is just now coming into its second generation. BMW has just announced pricing for the new model, which is slated to arrive at the end of the year.

Stylistically, it would have to be the least impressive of the new BMWs. The front end lacks definition and to our eyes looks inexpensive. A step backward?

The look of the front end, yes. But the rest of the vehicle is an improvement, and that likely will be enough to keep sales on the upward path. Perhaps more significant to achieving that goal is a reduction in price.

There are two models - the base X3 xDrive28i, coming in at $37,625. That is a drop from last year's $39,725. It comes standard with a 240 horsepower inline-six. The next model up is the xDrive35i, starting at $41,925.

Opting for the xDrive35i bumps you up to a more powerful 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder. Both models come standard with all-wheel drive and mated to BMW's eight-speed automatic. The 2011 BMW X3 will arrive at the end of this year, with both models available at launch.