BMW Australia is introducing the new BMW X3 xDrive20i variant into the local line-up. It features the new 2.0-litre TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

This is the first time the ‘N20′ 2.0-litre engine has been made available in the medium-sized SUV, and only the third introduction of the engine into any current local model – following the BMW Z4 sDrive20i and BMW 520i. It will also feature in the upcoming 3 Series.

Replacing the current BMW X3 xDrive20d as the entry-level model, the xDrive20i petrol comes with the same amount of power but less torque than the diesel. The engine produces 135kW of power and 270Nm of torque. BMW says acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 8.6 seconds.

Even though the diesel version does provide more torque (380Nm), the new BMW X3 xDrive20i undercuts the 20d on the price front, kicking off at $59,200 compared with the 20d’s price of $62,200. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5L/100km.

As for the equipment, the xDrive20i comes with the same package as the xDrive20d. This means it gets 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control with braking function, rear-view camera, parking distance control, and BMW’s Radio Professional with Bluetooth connectivity in-car entertainment system.

Other features include BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as stop/start, brake energy regeneration, and low rolling resistance tyres. It also comes with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and an emissions rating of 175g of CO2/km.

The new entry-level BMW X3 xDrive20i will hit showrooms next month.