BMW Surprises Everyone With 2015 X3: 2014 Chicago Auto Show

On the eve of the Chicago Auto Show, BMW surprised everyone by announcing an updated 2015 X3 crossover which brings a number of changes, including the addition of a new powertrain.

The changes begin outside as BMW has tweaked the exterior design. The trademark kidney grille has been slightly widened and the front headlights have been stretched to make them touch the grille. A new front bumper features reshaped brake cooling ducts, while the back bumper gets more metal trim. Heading inside, the 2015 X3 gets new trim pieces and upholstery choices. As for options, BMW upped the X3's tech quotient with Parking Assistant, Active Driving Assistant with adaptive cruise control, Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, and City Collision Mitigation.

But the big news lies under the hood. The 2015 X3 becomes BMW's fifth model to offer a diesel engine. The X3 xDrive28d features a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder diesel with 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with BMW's eight-speed automatic. Other powertrain changes include the addition of a rear-drive X3 called the sDrive28i which features a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder.

Wanting to get your hands on a 2015 X3? Well you won't be waiting long as BMW announced the 2015 X3 will arrive at dealers in the spring. The pricing is as follows:

• sDrive28i - $39,325
• xDrive28i - $40,725
• xDrive28d - $42,825
• xDrive35i - $45,825

All prices include a $925 destination charge.