BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Launched in India: A Comprehensive Rivalry with Mercedes-Benz GLC
BMW India has officially introduced the new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro SUV to the Indian automotive market, marking a significant addition to its premium lineup. This model stands out as the most powerful variant in the X3 series, positioning itself as a direct competitor to established rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60. Pre-bookings for this high-performance SUV are now open, allowing customers to place orders either online or through authorized BMW dealerships across the country, with deliveries anticipated to commence shortly.
Price and Variants: A Head-to-Head Analysis
The new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro is priced at Rs 74.5 lakh (ex-showroom), establishing it as the top-tier trim in the X3 range. Alongside this, BMW offers the X3 in xDrive 20 petrol and xDrive 20d diesel variants, both equipped with the M Sport package for enhanced aesthetics and performance. On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic is available at Rs 73.97 lakh (ex-showroom), with the GLC 220d 4Matic variant also priced identically, providing buyers with multiple powertrain options within a similar price bracket.
Dimensions and Design: Space and Styling Compared
When it comes to dimensions, the BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro measures 4,755 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, supported by a 2,865 mm wheelbase. It rides on stylish 20-inch M alloy wheels, contributing to its aggressive stance. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is slightly more compact, with dimensions of 4,716 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,640 mm in height, featuring a 2,580 mm wheelbase and 19-inch alloy wheels, offering a sleeker profile.
Features and Technology: Luxury and Innovation Face-Off
The BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro boasts an impressive array of features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a head-up display, and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Additional comforts include four-zone climate control, wireless phone charging, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, and powered ventilated front seats with memory function. Safety is paramount, with eight airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control with Cornering Brake Control, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, and an electronic immobilizer with crash sensor.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz GLC features an 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car technology, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, a wireless charger, a massive panoramic sunroof, multi-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, voice recognition, and a 15-speaker Burmester surround audio system. It also includes a 360-degree camera and an air purifier. Safety enhancements comprise seven airbags, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, and advanced ADAS technologies such as blind spot assist, active lane keep assist, attention assist, active brake assist, and active parking assist.
Powertrain and Performance: Engine Specifications and Efficiency
Under the hood, the BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that generates 258 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels via the xDrive system. It incorporates a 48V mild hybrid assist, enabling a swift 0-100 kph acceleration in 6.3 seconds, with a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.61 kmpl.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic also utilizes a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine, producing 258 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. It pairs with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. This engine is enhanced by a 48V mild-hybrid system and an integrated starter generator, which adds an extra 23 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, boosting overall performance and efficiency.
This detailed comparison highlights the competitive landscape in India's luxury SUV segment, offering consumers a clear perspective on these two formidable contenders.
