Presentation of the X3 model took place in the fall of 2003 in Frankfurt/Main. Following the X5 model, this is the second recreational and cross-country BMW vehicle. Both of them have the same new xDrive system and permanently driven all four wheels, with adjustable and fully variable distribution of torque among the two axles depending on the current demand. This is realized through an electronically adjusted viscotic clutch, which may alter the distribution of the driving power in a stepless manner. The producer emphasizes the high speed of operation of this system. Initially, the X3 got 6-cylinder petrol engines: a 2.5-liter 192 hp and a 3.0-liter 231 hp unit, as well as a 3.0-liter 204 hp diesel. In the second part of 2004, a 4-cylinder 2.0-liter 150 hp engine was introduced. The X3 model is not suitable for off-road driving, but it can perform the role of an attractive and safe family car.