BMW makes new X3 SUV into diesel honey

BMW introduced its latest X3 performance SUV today, offering an advanced diesel version and a rear-wheel-drive version for the U.S.

The X3 goes on sale in the spring starting at $39,325 for the new rear-wheel-drive version.

It will look distinctly different than the outgoing model. The new X3 has a different shape to its twin-circular headlights, a new grille, front and rear bumpers and exterior mirrors that have turn signal indicators embedded in them.

There will be a choice of one diesel and two gasoline engines:

X3 xDrive28d will feature BMW's 2-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel four-cylinder engine. The clean diesel produces 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Zero to 60 miles per hour: under eight seconds.

X3 sDrive28i has a 2-liter TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. In this one, zero to 60 mph can be achieved in 6.2 seconds. Another version will offer up to 300 horsepower, but no details on it yet.