The All-New BMW X3 Launches in South Africa.
BMW South Africa has officially launched the latest generation of the BMW X3, proudly built at the Rosslyn plant in Pretoria. As one of BMW’s most successful SUV models, the new X3 continues to set benchmarks in design, technology, and driving performance.
The Rosslyn plant has been at the heart of BMW’s manufacturing footprint since 1973, making history as the brand’s first production facility outside Germany. With the new X3, BMW reaffirms its commitment to South African manufacturing, further cementing the plant’s role in the global supply chain. Notably, Rosslyn has been selected as the exclusive production site for the X3 30e plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which will be exported worldwide—underscoring the plant’s world-class capabilities.
BMW has made significant investments in the Rosslyn facility, ensuring it remains at the forefront of modern automotive production. This ongoing commitment strengthens South Africa’s position in the global automotive industry while driving economic growth.
Beyond vehicle production, BMW South Africa is dedicated to empowering local communities. Through its youth employment and training initiatives, BMW provides work opportunities for approximately 2,500 young South Africans. These programs equip participants with valuable skills, fostering long-term career development in the automotive sector and beyond.
In addition to producing the new X3, BMW is developing a unique, South Africa-only model called the BMW X3 Rugged. Designed specifically for local conditions, the Rugged will feature more capable tyres, durable rubber interior mats, and additional accessories to enhance off-road capability and practicality. While full details are yet to be revealed, this special edition highlights BMW’s dedication to meeting the needs of South African drivers with locally inspired innovations.
Pricing, Trims, and Performance Figures for the South African Market
The new BMW X3 is available in several variants in South Africa, each offering distinct features and performance capabilities. Below is a breakdown of the available models, their pricing, and key performance metrics:
Model Starting Price (ZAR) Engine Specifications Performance (0-100 km/h) Fuel Consumption (Combined)
*All models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The 30e xDrive variants feature a 17.9 kWh battery, offering an electric-only range of approximately 90 km, with a top speed of 140 km/h in electric mode.
Trim Options and Additional Features
BMW offers a range of trim packages and optional features for the new X3 to cater to diverse customer preferences:
- Launch Package (R40,000): Includes ambient lighting, panoramic glass roof, rear window blinds, and a tow bar.
- Equipment Package Professional (R45,000): Features Live Cockpit Professional, interior camera, Driving Assist Plus, and Parking Assist Plus.
- Individual Options:
- Heated steering wheel (R5,000)
- M seat belts (R6,000)
- Personal eSIM (R6,000)
- Heated seats (R7,000)
- M sports suspension (R12,000)
- M sport brakes in red or blue (R10,000)
- Harman Kardon audio system (R16,000)
- Adaptive suspension (R22,000)
- Driving Assist Professional (R30,000)
*All prices include VAT and emissions tax. The new BMW X3 comes with a 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan.
With its bold new design, cutting-edge technology, and dynamic performance, the new BMW X3 continues to lead the premium mid-size SUV segment. As it rolls off the Rosslyn production line, it represents not just BMW’s legacy of excellence but also South Africa’s growing influence in global automotive manufacturing.
The new BMW X3 is now available at dealerships across South Africa, setting new standards in luxury, innovation, and sustainability.
Sean Claase
Automotive South Africa
