Cool extras for the new BMW X3

By Stuart Johnston

The BMW X3 is the brand new new model that is being produced at BMW SA’s Plant Rosslyn, near Pretoria, for both our local market and for global export. And already BMW’s accessory division offers some tantalizing extras, or upgrades, that can be ordered from your local BMW dealership.

If you have purchased a new BMW X3 you will be keen to see this premium-quality Sports Activity Vehicle retain its value. Personalising a car can often reduce the perceived value of a car if random extras or accessories are fitted.  Hence the wise choice is to fit manufacturer-approved accessories. Factory-approved accessories will also not invalidate the warranty, provided these accessories are installed at the dealership.  Here, we list five very cool extras from BMW’s official Accessories division available for fitment at BMW dealerships.

Advanced Car Eye

The BMW Advanced Car Eye is a camera activated by an unusual movement. It records critical video footage from inside the vehicle, and comes with a rear camera as well. It can be invaluable in cases of an accident or a break-in, and it’s highly sensitive light metering enables it to record clear images even at night. It comes with a GPS module, adhesive mounting patch, a cable set, a 32 Gigabyte SD card, and a USB adapter. It gives you peace of mind when driving, or when forced to leave your vehicle in areas where security may be an issue. The Advanced Car Eye costs R4 541.

20 Inch Wheels in Black

BMW offers a wide range of personalised wheels to personalise your particular car. A style we really enjoy is the 20-inch Y-Spoke style 695. The unique aspect of this wheel is that the  spokes are interwoven in pairs, hence the name “Y-Spoke . The spoke design is obviously immensely strong, and finished in matt black these wheels give that purposeful look to the X3. The front wheel size is 8J X 20 and the rear wheel size is 9.5 J X 20. Price is a not inconsiderable R9 389 per wheel!

Mud Flaps for the X3

These high quality mud flaps are neatly designed to protect the lower areas of your X3’s bodywork from stone chips and dirt. The flaps are available in two styles, for fitment without the M aerodynamics package, or the M Sport package. They come in a set for front and rear wheels and cost R1 304. This price does not include installation, which must be carried out by a BMW approved service centre while the car is under warranty.

Loading sill protector

This is a transparent plastic covering for the loading sill, or upper rear bumper that is exposed when you are loading objects into the boot of an X3. This area is particularly vulnerable to scratches and this sill protector will keep your X3 looking factory fresh. Pricing is not available at present, but this will be a reasonably cheap accessory that will impart invaluable peace of mind.

All-weather floor mats

Fitting extra floor carpet protection is another great idea that will keep your X3 looking fresh for years to come. They look very smart, with a bespoke X3 stainless steel inlay that enhances the interior appearance. They feature raised edging for extra protection and durability, and an elegant design that compliments the classy X3 interior. Price for the two front mats is R2 390.