BMW launches new X3 at Rs 49.9 lakh

German luxury carmaker BMW on Thursday launched the updated version of its sports utility vehicle X3 priced up to Rs 49.9 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The new X3 is available only in diesel option and is being locally produced at the company's Chennai plant. It goes on sale across the country from today onwards.

"In order to strengthen our presence in the country, we would aggressively expand our product range in the luxury segment," BMW Group India President Philipp von Sahr said. The new X3 will be available in two variants priced at Rs 44.9 lakh and Rs 49.9 lakh (ex-showroom). It is equipped with various luxury features, including the eight-speed automatic transmission with cruise control. The company had first launched the X3 model in 2003, followed by an updated version in 2011. The model launched today is the third generation of the SUV. Commenting on the future launches, Sahr said the company would launch the M3 sedan, M4 Coupe and the M5 sedan in 2014.

Taking a further step in sustainable mobility, BMW India will also introduce hybrid car i8 in 2014, he added.

The company also plans to expand dealer network in the country by 2015 end by taking the overall number to 50 from 37 currently.

BMW India, which is wholly-owned subsidiary of the Germany's BMW Group, currently produces various vehicles at its Chennai facility including the 1 Series, 3 Series, X1 and X3.