Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW X3

On this rainy Thursday, I have another great addition to our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency list, the BMW X3. This "sport activity vehicle" (SAV) puts an emphasis on BMW's trademark driving experience. It also delivers a combination of luxury, utility, and efficiency.

Checkered Flag BMW's Michael Kulp, a client advisor, showed me a Jet Black X3. The 3.0si, the lone model for the X3 (starting at $38,600), is powered by 3.0-liter dual overhead cam (DOHC), 6-cylinder engine that produces 260hp. Six-speed manual and six-speed automatic with Steptronic gearing control transmissions are offered. BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system comes standard.

The 3.0-liter engine also has BMW's Valvetronic system, which allows for increased power output and efficiency. The X3 is rated at 24 miles on the highway and 17 miles in the city. It's 18 gallon tank can get upwards of 430 highway miles with one fill up.

I spent a few minutes circling around the X3, and it's the perfect size. Not too bulky and not too compact, just a great middle ground choice.  The X3 interior is also impressive with its finely tailored Sensatec Leatherette upholstery. It has firm yet comfortable seats for five passengers.

A Dual-glass-panel Panoramic Moonroof is also a highlight interior feature on the X3. Other standard features include: Anti-theft AM/FM stereo/CD/MP3 audio system with 8 speakers and auxiliary audio input adapter compatible with portable music players; Tilt/telescopic steering wheel column; Automatic climate control with micro-filter and air recirculation; and Vehicle & Key Memory.

The X3 is also one of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Picks for 2008. It received top ratings in front, side, and rear crash tests. The xDrive system I mentioned earlier is an intelligent safety feature that adapts to changing road conditions by shifting torque if wheels start to slip. Also, driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment, and front-passenger seat sensors, front-door-mounted side-impact airbags; Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), and active front seat head restraints all come standard. For the full list of safety features visit here.

Several optional packages are also available for the X3. The cold weather package in particular adds heated front and rear seats. Check out the link above for details.

See this Unsung Hero in person by visiting Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.