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xDrive
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A special highlight of the
BMW X3 is the all-new intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology allowing
adjustable and fully variable 100% distribution of power from the rear to the
front of the vehicle. xDrive immediately recognizes any need for change in power
distribution and responds quickly to ensure that the wheels don't loose their
grip.
As a result, the X3 is
able to feed optimum torque to the respective axle at any time during dynamic
cornering, significantly minimizing both under- and oversteer in the process,
adding a major safety factor to the performance of the car.
With the X3, BMW
introduces its patented xDrive intelligent four-wheel-drive system. xDrive will
set a new benchmark in agility for all-wheel-drive systems. xDrive works by
instantly changing torque distribution – nominally 35% front, 65% rear – from
front to rear axles for substantial improvements in stability, driving pleasure
and safety.
xDrive is both
fully adjustable and infinitely variable. This means the system feeds optimum
torque to the required axle at any time while cornering, countering understeer
and oversteer.
- Off-road,
xDrive significantly improves traction by distributing drive forces to the
axle with the most grip. As soon as wheel spin threatens, the
electro-hydraulic center coupling transfers power to the axle with greater
traction.
- On the road,
xDrive offers a significantly higher standard of agility, driving pleasure and
safety all in one. xDrive also ensures better grip and traction on slippery or
rough terrain.
Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) complements xDrive, but intervenes far later and is required less
frequently. While xDrive helps prevent loss of traction by channeling drive
forces axle-to-axle, DSC works on individual wheels, intervening when one starts
to slip. In these cases, DSC cuts power to the affected wheel and, where
necessary, also applies the brakes.
In addition to
xDrive and DSC, the X3 (like the X5) will also have Hill Descent Control (HDC)
to limit down-hill speed when descending steep hills.
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The X3 is
preceded by the 
