We recently talked about the BMW X3’s trip through the Moroccan desert, a trip that would normally never have been associated with the X3. However, it handled the difficult terrain with surprising competence. Admittedly, it wasn’t climbing Moab, but still, taking a BMW X3 on some rocky roads and sandy deserts are not things any owner will ever do and it was an impressive adventure.
While we learned about this adventure a bit and saw some pictures, it’s an entirely different story to actually see it in video. In this new video from Carfection, we see the BMW X3 take on Morocco and all of its different charms.
The all-new BMW X3 xDrive30d was the vehicle that made the trip. That may not be as exciting as the M40i performance variant but it’s the one you want for a trip like this. Its 3.0 liter turbocharged I6 diesel engine is perfect for cruising along on the road and pulling the car through tough stuff off it the road. It’s also a smooth and quiet companion.
In terms of suspension and handling, the X3 is just about right. Its combination of decently fun-to-drive dynamics and supple ride comfort is hard to beat. While it may not drive like the “Ultimate Driving Machine” moniker might lead you to believe, it’s definitely the right compromise between fun and comfort for the segment. Plus, if you want fun, drive the BMW X3 M40i, as it’s genuinely one of the most fun BMWs on the market.
What’s more impressive, though, is how this thing handles rough terrain. Again, it wasn’t climbing any rocks or doing anything that would make a Jeep Wrangler more than yawn. However, driving across the deep sand of the Marrakech desert and the rocky terrain of Morocco’s mountainside are both things that should impress about the X3. Normally, the BMW X3 is driven by suburban families, shuttling their kids and gear around. Not tackling Morocco.
