BMW has expanded its local X3 plug-in hybrid range with the arrival of the X3 30e xDrive xLine, a new variant priced below the existing M Sport model.

SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp., the official importer and distributor of BMW vehicles in the Philippines, has set an introductory price of P4.498 million. This makes the xLine version P400,000 less expensive than the X3 30e xDrive M Sport.

The new variant uses a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a 19.7-kWh battery. The system produces a combined 299 PS and 450 Nm of torque, with power sent through BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

BMW claims the X3 30e xDrive xLine can travel up to 90 kilometers on electric power under the WLTP test cycle. That range may cover many daily trips without using the gasoline engine, provided the vehicle is regularly charged. The engine remains available for longer drives when charging is not practical.

Performance remains strong despite the focus on efficiency. The plug-in hybrid can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds.

The xLine model has a less aggressive appearance than the M Sport version. It still receives adaptive LED headlights, an illuminated BMW kidney grille and satin-finished aluminum exterior trim. It rides on 19-inch aerodynamic two-tone wheels.

Sport seats are fitted for the driver and front passenger. Both come with power adjustment, memory and lumbar support. The cabin also has three-zone automatic climate control, which allows occupants to choose separate temperature settings.

BMW includes its Travel and Comfort Package, along with the Comfort Access System for easier entry. The vehicle also comes with an interior camera and BMW IconicSounds Electric, which adds specially developed sounds during electric driving.

The dashboard uses BMW Live Cockpit Professional. It combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument display with a 14.9-inch central screen powered by BMW Operating System 9. The system handles navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings.

A head-up display places driving information within the driver’s line of sight. Augmented View adds navigation instructions over a live view of the road ahead.

Smartphone Integration and ConnectedDrive Services provide access to compatible phone applications, real-time traffic information and selected remote vehicle functions.

Owners can also use the BMW Digital Key to lock, unlock and start the vehicle through a compatible mobile device. A Harman Kardon surround sound system handles cabin audio.

Driver assistance equipment includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Driving Assistant Plus. Parking Assistant Plus uses a 360-degree camera to help the driver judge tight spaces.

The X3 30e xDrive xLine also supports AC Charging Plus. It is now available through BMW dealerships nationwide, which gives buyers a lower-priced entry into the current X3 plug-in hybrid range.