Lemon Poppyseed Donuts, Vanilla-Frosted

Yesterday I whipped up these vegan, baked Lemon Poppyseed Donuts. They have a light vanilla frosting/glaze on top and taste like little pillows of sunshine. Heavenly treat for summertime baking! I added some fresh blueberries on top to intensify the summery feel... Read more »

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Ten things to help yourself during the football recruiting process

It is interesting to see that one of the most popular articles of this site was Ten Things To Do To Not Get Recruited By College Coaches.  While the article was written in May, I still feel strongly about all ten and they are definitely things that you need to avoid.  Instead of focusing on the negative in this article, I decided to write about ten things to positively differentiate yourself in the football recruiting process.  Many of these apply to other sports but a few are football specific.  They are in no particular order but should be areas to consider when going through the recruiting process.

1.) Excel at camps and combines
A fantastic time for athletes to play their best is at camps and combines (By this I mean major camps and combines, no small ones where few people are there).  Your performance will no doubt help you in the eyes of college coaches.  So if you have an injury, suck it up because this is a vital time during the football recruiting process.

2.) Have a 4.0 GPA
While grades will not get you a scholarship for sports, coaches love to see athletes with a strong performance in academics.  They love the fact that they may be getting a recruit who they are not going to have to worry about in the classroom.  That just helps the athletes and the coach avoid the awkward talks of trying to raise their grades.  The higher the GPA, the better you look in their eyes.

3.) Put together a quality highlight video
While doing well at camps are great, a highlight video is important because it shows that you can do it over the course of the season.  As always, let me stress that you put a quality highlight video together.  If you go the cheap route and get something that doesn’t look good, it is going to be tough in getting a scholarship.

4.) Score high on your ACT/SAT
If you are unable to get that Division I-A scholarship that you dream for, you are going to have to look into your backup options.  And at all levels, the better academics you have, the less student loans you will leave college with.  So if you have taken these tests, unless you got perfect, retake them and try to get better.  In the end, you can submit your highest overall score.

5.) Be the hardest worker on your team
There are many athletes who can get away with not working hard at the high school level.  But that mentality catches up with them while in college.  The very best in the world are those who have God given talent and are the hardest workers.  That is exactly how Michael Jordan became the player he was with the Bulls.

6.) Avoid off the field trouble
Coaches hate to deal with dumb 18 to 23 year olds getting in trouble off the field.  It could be in school or with the police.  The moral of the story is to do what you can to avoid it.  You have the rest of your life to drink alcohol so just wait a few years.  It may not be all that popular but it will help you in the long run.

7.) Listen and respect to all of your coaches and teachers
College coaches will do whatever they can to talk to people around your school to get a better feel for the person that you are.  If you are a good student and a respectable young man, then your coaches and teachers will think the world of you.  And when the college coaches ask them questions, they will tell them just that.

8.) Excel in multiple sports
College coaches love to see football players who standout in track, basketball, or wrestling.  Many of the skills displayed in those sports carry over and above everything else, the athletes know how to compete in different venues.  These are a big benefit for football players and may be a good reason not to specialize.

9.) Listen to feedback from coaches and improve on your weaknesses
If you attend camps and get an honest evaluation, the college coaches will tell you what areas they think you need to work on.  They will also do the same with your recruiting highlight video.  When they tell you these things, take note and really think about them.  Find out what you can do about improving these areas and show them on senior video that you are much stronger in those weak areas.  Then the coaches will know how serious you are about recruiting.

10.) Be a role model in your community
While character may not be the first thing that college coaches recruit, it is important for athletes.  You need to realize that as a recruited athlete, people will look up to you in the community.  With that in mind, it may help you avoid #6 on the list and become a better person overall.

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Baby Talk.

Hey guys! A bit of a personal post today. Probably one of the most personal I have ever written. I have always felt weird sharing something like this on a 'food blog.' But after a lot of debating, I realized that this is my little space on the internet. My space to use my voice and share my life. And this story. This huge part of my journey in life. If you totally don't care about babies and these types of personal posts, don't worry, I will be back with an awesome recipe tomorrow or the next day. But for now, I am cradling a big mug of steamy matcha, and sharing a piece of me with you...Read more »

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The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 is the most powerful road-going Jaguar ever

Thanks to upgrades from Jaguar-Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 cracks 200 mph.

What’s going on?

The Jaguar XE is a compelling alternative to the compact luxury sports sedan perennials from Germany. But ever since the XE came out, there hasn’t been a competitor to the high-performance variants of the Germans such as the BMW M3, Audi S4, and Mercedes-AMG C-Class…until now.

Meet the all-new Jaguar XE SV Project 8, the most powerful and agile road-going Jaguar ever made.

As the first hand-assembled model by SVO, the new Jaguar XE SV Project 8 is the culmination of Jaguar-Land Rover’s $25 million investment into the SVO Technical Center in Warwickshire, UK. Basically, the it’s the performance branch to Jaguar, like Mercedes-AMG is to Mercedes-Benz, and BMW M Division to BMW.

“SVO’s raison d’être is to produce halo vehicles that push the boundaries in terms of luxury, performance and all-terrain capability. Project 8 is a great example of what happens when enthusiastic designers, engineers and manufacturing specialists are given the opportunity to create an extreme performance sports car without compromise,” said John Edwards in the car’s launch statement, the managing director for J-LR Special Operations. “Project 8 will be assembled by hand in the new SVO Technical Center, and we’re confident that our enthusiastic and demanding clients will love driving Project 8 as much we do!”

What’s cool about it?

The first thing you’ll notice about the Jaguar XE SV Project 8, besides its radiant orange hue, is the bonkers boy-racer performance kit. The front lower fascia gains a new look with odd-looking vents meant to gobble up massive volumes of air for cooling and aerodynamics. But more so, the entire kit reduces the weight of the XE, thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber for both front and rear bumpers, the adjustable rear wing, and the rear diffuser.

Under the hood sits the latest and greatest iteration of Jaguar’s ubiquitous AJ-V8, displacing 5.0-liters and with support from a supercharger, producing 592 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Those 592 horses go through a ZF-sourced eight-speed Quickshift automatic and all-wheel traction to help put the power down. Jaguar claims a top speed of over 200 mph and a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds.

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Though carbon-based materials don’t just find themselves in body parts. The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 also comes standard with Jaguar’s latest Carbon Ceramic Brake system, making it the first Jaguar to feature the system. The CCB system also works in tandem with the stability and traction control and the Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking to counter understeer. In simplified terms, the XE SV Project 8 basically utilizes braking power to simulate what a typical, mechanical limited-slip differential and stability control would do under aggressive cornering. But now, the systems work more with each other and are optimized for increased performance.

While you can get into the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 and just go anywhere like a bat out of hell, Jaguar equipped the vehicle with fully adjustable Continuously Variable Dampers in the suspension. Owners can adjust the ride height and shock stiffness, making it the most track-biased SVO car to date. Additionally, other details include a swap out of various bushings and bits for more expensive more capable ones to help reduce mass and improve handling response and precision.

On the inside, the Project 8 features four seats only, versus the standard XE’s five. Up front sit magnesium-framed Performance seats with contrast stitching and Premium Jet leather, complemented by Miko suedecloth trim. Alcantara festoons surfaces such as the dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel. And although the Project 8 is performance oriented, there’s still plenty of Jaguar swag to keep things luxurious.

A 10.2-inch tablet-like touchscreen comes standard for the Jaguar InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. For those keeping tabs on track times, there’s even an integrated stopwatch and telemetry application to help bolster track-day bets with friends. Above it all, the Project 8 is also one fast 4G WiFi hotspot.

When can I get one?

Jaguar-Land Rover SVO claims only 300 of these Project 8s will hit production worldwide and only in left-hand drive. Prices aren’t available just yet, but that should surface closer to the car’s launch, following its debut at the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed. And expect to be high.

– By: Chris Chin

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Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Specifications

TECHNICAL DATA	JAGUAR XE SV PROJECT 8
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION9
Engine capacity (cc)	5,000
Layout	V8 Supercharged gasoline
Power	592HP @ 6,500rpm
Torque	516- lb. ft. @ 3,500-5,000rpm
Transmission	8-speed Quickshift automatic, All-Wheel Drive, Stop/Start
CHASSIS
Front and rear suspension	Front: independent, double wishbones, adjustable coil springs, CVD dampers Rear: independent, Integral Link, adjustable coil springs, CVD dampers
Front brakes	15.7-in/400mm Carbon Ceramic Braking discs, six-piston sliding caliper
Rear brakes	15.6-in/396mm Carbon Ceramic Braking discs, single-piston sliding caliper
Wheels and tires	Front: 9.5 x 20in forged alloy, 265/35 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Rear: 11 x 20in forged alloy, 305/30 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Steering	Rack-and-pinion; electromechanical
DIMENSIONS
Length	185.6-in / 4,713mm
Width including  mirrors	81.7-in / 2,075mm
Width excluding Mirrors	76.9-in / 1,954mm
Road Height	56.5-in / 1,436mm
Track Height	55.9-in / 1,421mm
Wheelbase	111.6-in / 2,835mm
Weight	From 3,847-lbs / 1,745kg
PERFORMANCE9
0-60mph	3.3 sec(1)
0-100km/h	3.7 sec(1)
Top speed	200mph(1)

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Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Gallery

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What college coach should I send my recruiting profile to?

For those that have read The Five Steps to a Scholarship Offer, it is obvious how important is for an athlete to market themselves.  As I have said over and over again, unless you are a top 100 talent in the country, you will likely need to do some work to really put yourself in front of college coaches.  And once they are aware of you, that is when you can get the ball rolling.

If you do go through the first two steps of that article, then you will move onto marketing yourself (Or your child) to the college coaches.  But many wonder which coach should I be sending that information to?  Because there is no clear cut question, I am going to take a look at the both football recruiting and basketball recruiting when trying to answer this question.

At the Division I level, many times there are secretaries that filter the emails for the coaching staff.  When finding the staff directory, many colleges have all of their emails listed as that of the secretary.  When looking at the email, it is pretty obvious to tell if that is the email of the coach or that of someone else.  If it a secretary, your first move should be to request contact information for the actual coach.

The first thing that I am going to mention is that you should not send recruiting profile to the head coach at the school.  It doesn’t matter what the circumstance is.  The head coach is extremely busy with so many other things that they likely do not have the time to look into your recruiting profile.  You are wasting your time trying to track down the email and the time of the coach by actually sending it him.  This applies to both football and basketball.

For both sports, the first thing you should do is go to the page that lists the coaches.  If you have time, look at each profile and see if there is something that you have in common with the coach.  For example, if the coach played in your conference or your area many years ago, that may be the guy you want to send it to.

If there are not common bonds between you and the coaching staff, here is where the sports will differ.  The first place coach you should look into for football is the recruiting coordinator.  At the Division I and II levels, most coaching staffs have an official recruiting coordinator.  Their job title is exactly what they do.  This coach coordinates the recruiting process with visits, offers, evaluation, calls, and just about everything that you can imagine.

That is the first coach you should look into.  For basketball, my advice would be to find a coach that is is lower on depth chart.  While some first assistants are head recruiters, the majority of time the coaches that are spending the most time recruiting are the younger ones.  They are usually the second or third assistant and their main focus is recruiting.  If you can look at the bios, figure out which one is an official assistant coach and looks the youngest.

Switching gears back to football, the assistant coaches that recruit usually have areas throughout the country.  For example, a school like Nebraska may have a coach that recruits in-state, another that goes to California, another who recruits Texas, and other coaches do the work in between.  If you are aware of the coach that recruits in your area, then he should be the one that is receiving your profile.  If you are unsure, what you should do is email the secretary and kindly ask which coach recruits in your area.

One major thing that a coaching staff will not appreciate is sending a profile to every coach on staff.  Just because you have their email addresses does not mean you need to send every coach a copy.  Sending the information to more than one coach is more than sufficient.  You are trying to get your name out there, not annoy them.

My guess is that college coaches will respond back if they have received the information and processed it.  They should at least say thank you and give you camp information.  Once that is done, then hopefully they will start recruiting you.  If the coaches do not send any information back, you need to be patient.

I would give the coaches up to two weeks to email back.  You have to realize how busy that they are and they could also be out of town for vacation or recruiting.  Anything can get in the way from email that patience is key here.  After two weeks, you can either email the coach again or find another coach who may be more receptive.  I personally would lean towards finding another coach but that would be your call.

Again, check out The Five Steps to a Scholarship Offer for more!

 

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Marketing scholarship offers during the athletic recruiting process

We recently had a comment from a parent who sits in a very desirable situation.  Even though his son is just entering his junior year of high school, he already holds two early scholarship offers.  What that means is his son has already gotten off to a great start in the recruiting process.  But with the offers in hand, now is a great time to capitalize on them.

I have always mentioned that making your offers public is important during the recruiting process.  Some feel differently, but I strongly feel that if schools see other programs recruiting you, they are going to take a closer look at you because of that interest.  Never lie about the amount of interest that you actually have but part of marketing yourself is letting other colleges and media outlets know that the scholarship offers are on the table.

While I don’t know all that much about the situation with the offers, the hope is that on September 1st these scholarships will become offers on paper instead of just a verbal offer.  I have heard many stories about coaches offering verbal scholarships and never coming through.  But for the sake of this article, lets say that the hard copies of the offers will be coming early next month.

If there have been other schools outside of the two recruiting this athlete, make sure to let the coaches know that there are two offers on the table.  As a parent, you can send an email update to the coach who you have had the most contact with.  Tell them about how the preseason practices/early games are going for your son, their updated height/weight, and about the recruiting interest.  The more coaches that know, the better for you.

The offers may also help you open more doors to schools that an athlete has grown up dreaming to play for.  In the third step of The Five Steps to a Scholarship Offer, I stress to market your child or yourself to college coaches.  When you pick new schools to contact and send your recruiting profile to, make sure to include that these two have offered early scholarship offers.  Make sure to include the date as well because you really have to be an excellent recruit to get offers so early in the recruiting process.

Once those are done, the third and final step is contact media outlets.  If it was me, the first place I would go is to check Rivals.com and see if the schools that have offered have a website on their network.  If it is updated frequently and people actually seem to care about it, then email the publisher and introduce yourself with mention of the offer.  If the site is poorly run (Most of the major BCS schools have the best sites), then email the recruiting experts at Rivals in your area (Click here for a full list of contact information).  Also, make sure to check out the high school site in your state and judge if it is worth contacting them about the information.  With these prep sites, only a few are done well so think hard if it is worth it.

After you have tried Rivals.com, do the exact same steps with Scout.  Look for sites at the schools that have offered and then try contacting their recruiting experts (Click here for the full list of contact information).  Last but not least, try the high school site in your state as well.  After that, the third place I would contact is ESPN.  I have tried searching for their contact information but it is definitely tricky.  Click here for what I found.

The last place I would contact would be your local newspaper.  Find out who the prep writer is for your area (Most should already know this) and email them about the offers.  While it does not mean they are going to drop everything and do an article, it is good to let them know for future articles.

The reason that you tell college coaches about this is that offers breed more offers.  I really believe that.  Contacting Rivals, Scout, and ESPN is the next step to get the word out about the offers.  College coaches love checking out those sites so they will likely see it and move on from there.

Again, having scholarships before your junior year is a great thing.  It says a lot about the athlete and their ability on the field and you are in a very good position at this point.

 

 

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The .feedback scam

Do you have feedback you'd like to give to Google, Facebook, StackOverflow, Inc., or Gandi? Now there's a website that will collect that feedback. Or... not.

There is a new TLD called ".feedback". It is a scam and ICANN should be ashamed of approving it.

The people that run .feedback have pre-registered "for free" 5,000 major companies. As a result you can go to sites like http://ift.tt/2tkNYYa and http://ift.tt/2uiv4P6 and http://ift.tt/2tkEHiT and more.

These websites enables people to send feedback about your company and products.

Will the company ever receive the feedback? Unlikely.

The company probably doesn't know the site exists.

If they do discover it, they are given a choice: Pay $20/month to receive the feedback, or pay $600/year to take the web site down. Of course, there is a free option: Just let the site remain and suffer as people send their feedback and feel ignored.

It is a perfect scam... what company wouldn't pay $600/year to avoid angry customers?

Most domains cost $10-$12 per year. Charging $600/year is highway robbery.

This reminds of the big internet scam where websites claim to be the lost-and-found for cities, taxi companies, etc. but really just collect money and do nothing useful with the information (listen to the podcast to find out what service they actually provide).

If you are one of the 5,000 companies being scammed, my advice is to be strong and not pay a cent.

Instead, ICANN should withdraw the TLD. If this scam complies with the TLD's original proposal, and nobody noticed, that is very sad. If it doesn't, then there is no reason ICANN should hesitate to stop this $3 million dollar fraud.

For more information, read this and this.

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3 Common Causes of Stretch Marks

This post first appeared on Beautiful Canadian Laser & Skin Care Clinic.

We all know that it is common for pregnant women to get stretch marks on their stomach, but there are many other reasons why a person may get stretch marks on various parts of the body such as the thighs or upper arms. Learn more about some common causes of stretch marks as you read […]

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The 3 Tools for Making Matcha! (+ giveaway)

*The Kathy's Matcha Chat series is sponsored by Encha Organic Matcha I am really happy with this month's Kathy's Matcha Chat video (episide 4) because I really get back to basics when it comes to matcha. Today I share the three main tools you can use for making matcha. And when I say 'matcha,' I mean both traditional matcha tea (water + matcha) or a matcha latte. I will also share my go-to matcha latte recipe (the one I use every day) and also our monthly giveaway is ahead. (I also share a pretty matcha iphone wallpaper image).. Read more »

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What are the benefits of being listed in the Rivals, 247Sports, Scout, or ESPN football or basketball databases?

Over the past few weeks, I have talked about what steps you need to take to get listed by Rivals Advice, 247Sports Advice, Scout Advice, and ESPN Advice (Click each of the links for the previous articles).  And while I talked about the important of why you need to be listed, I don’t feel that I really broke it down as to the importance of each.

The first reason and it is rather obvious is exposure.  While college coaches won’t offer a scholarship to an athletic recruit based on a great profile with a sharp picture on one of these sites, getting your name out there is essential in the recruiting process.  These sites are frequently used by college coaches so there is no reason not to try and get listed in each of the three.

Coaches at all levels, from Division I to Division III, sometimes use these databases to help themselves build their own database of athletes to recruit.  One of the main features that they use on sites like Rivals and Scout is the video option.  While they are somewhat picky as to whose video they cut, these sites add video footage from recruits across the country.

As a recruit, it is really a cool thing to have a profile with video highlights included.  But the advantage of having that video there is that it allows college coaches to see the footage online quickly.  If they think you can play, they may start recruiting you and request to see a game tape.  If they don’t like how you play, chances are small that they would have been interested in you in the first place.

Because coaches throughout the country have subscriptions to these sites, you can email them the link to your video with an update on how the spring or summer is going.  Again, that is far from a guarantee that they will watch it but I have heard first hand from Division I coaches that they prefer to see video of recruits on the computer.  They can click a link and watch a portion of it.  Then they can make the decision one way or the other as to what they want to do.

I know for a fact that sending out video links to college coaches, even if you haven’t been in contact with them before, will have a better chance of being watched than sending out highlight tapes.  Not only does it save you time and money preparing the videos, it gives the coaches a quicker option than opening the package, learning about someone they were not recruiting, and watching the video.  If you send your recruiting profile and the link in an email, it makes the process much easier for the coaches.

While ESPN Scouts Inc does not have much video footage available online, you can send it in to them and have them review it.  Their staff appears to be very small (And hard to get in touch with for that matter) but they do a solid job ranking the recruits.  I am unsure of the time and effort it takes for them to review the video but it definitely could not hurt an athlete during the recruiting process.

When you get listed in the database, these sites also have databases that are only available to administrators of the sites on the network.  These databases are the ones that hold your contact information, email address, contact information for your coach, and anything else of interest.

It may not seem important but unless you are a major recruit, you want these sites to have the ability to call you for a story.  Again, the reason is so recognition.  For example, say State University does an article about you receiving interest from them.  While you may not end up there, a Division I-AA powerhouse near you may see the article and become interest in you.  He may look at your profile and check your video highlights.  You may be someone that they recruit if State University doesn’t offer.  If you take that path, the advantage obviously is to increase your options in the recruiting process.

I have mentioned this before but I still think that it is vital for you to make sure schools on those networks are aware that their programs are recruiting you and offering scholarships.  The reason why it is so important is because offers breed more attention and possibly other scholarships.  While smaller schools may want you to keep quiet about an offer, the more people that know, the better for you and the recruiting process.  While some may consider it bragging, this is actually helping yourself in the recruiting process.

What that means is that you should keep up your profile.  Find someone with the access to make changes and additions and then go from there.

 

 

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The 2018 BMW X3 builds on previous successes

The ’18 BMW X3 is a high-volume crossover that aims to please a wider range of buyers

It’s easy to think of the BMW X3 as a vehicle for those desiring the practicality of a Subaru Forester, but want on-road performance and a splash of character on the inside. They may be cross-shopping the Audi’s Q5 or Merc’s GLC, or the best offered by the Japanese—it gets hard for BMW at this point. Why? The market is flooded, and automakers are struggling to find groundbreaking improvements. The headliners here are that it comes with a 2-inch trailer hitch and 60 happens in 4.6 seconds.

Driving enthusiasts want wagons, but enthusiasts don’t drive X3s

The take rate on the X3 is huge compared to the similarly equipped 3 series touring. Why is this? BMW is reacting strongly to the demand for their compact Sports Activity Vehicles. And as demand has grown, so has the options list and range of powertrains. The 3er wagon, which enjoyed its heyday in the US as the E46 (1998-2006) now enjoys sales figures similar to those of the unconventional and the grotesque 3er GranTurismo.

An automatic is the only transmission offered in the 3er wagon due to the cost of designing a federalized low-volume wagon with a stick. This has become the death knell for the 3er touring. Manufacturers are interested in using crossovers to fund halo cars with manual transmissions like the Audi R8, but it’s clear that Instagram isn’t a fan of practical cars with a low center of gravity, so wagons are out across the board.

The internally-named G01 BMW X3 is a clear sign of progression and now offers X-drive as standard

The BMW X3 was first sold stateside as a lifted box riding on a modified 3 series platform—only 10% smaller than the X5, the X3 should have been the premium crossover that thousands were looking for, but it wasn’t. BMW jumped the gun so hard on the first round of entry-level SUVs that the cars were slammed by the motoring press for resembling a cold stick of butter. There’s potential for fun, but the car came with a dour interior, a diesel that was suspected of cheating emissions, and the struggle of being in the X5’s shadow, size-wise. The interior of the 2018 can be had with leather seats, SensaTec where there might have been gray plastic beforehand, and a large suite of tech–including accident prediction. the options list has grown, NVH is tamed, the car is safer and faster. What’s not to like?

The second-generation sold so well, BMW hands out a trailer hitch and 19″ of fording capability, oh and more power.

The changes are relatively conservative (aesthetic refresh, a standard 8-speed auto, more power, silver colored cladding/faux skidplates), but BMW is now offering a couple of accessories to entice its market, but offers no details on towing capacities or pricing for this socially acceptable tiny van, which is due to show up at BMW’s floodgates this November. All of this is fine, because the top-of-the-range M40i BMW X3 gets to 60 in 4.6 seconds and comes with the following features that are particularly relevant to those needing a bit of extra clearance for their active lifestyles:

• 4-pot calipers up front
• available 21-inch wheels
• launch control

Click to view slideshow.

For the rest of us, the 2-liter will have to do. For more information, check out the press release below.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – June 26, 2017 10:00 am EDT / 7:00 am PDT… The all-new 2018 BMW X3 was unveiled today at BMW Plant Spartanburg, SC, where it will be produced alongside the BMW X4, BMW X5, and BMW X6. BMW is at home in Spartanburg, SC producing 411,171 BMW X models last year, making it the largest BMW Group’s global production facility with approximately 70 percent of the vehicles exported to 140 markets worldwide, thereby making BMW the largest vehicle exporter in the U.S. by value. BMW Plant Spartanburg has a deep level of localization, and provides and supports nearly 70,000 jobs in the U.S. In 2003, the BMW X3 was the car that launched the premium compact SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) segment. Since then, BMW has recorded more than 1.5 million vehicles worldwide and 378,803 in the US alone. Today, the all-new BMW X3 is set to write the next chapter in this success story with a more striking, dynamic design language, powerful yet efficient drive systems with a luxurious appeal. Like all members of the successful X family, it blends standout-driving qualities on any terrain with unrestricted everyday usability.

The all-new 2018 BMW X3 will be available at certified BMW Centers this November with pricing to be announced closer to market launch.

The exterior design with new distinctive looks.
The all-new BMW X3 elevates the already boldly dynamic design language of its predecessor. The third generation of the pioneering premium compact Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) treads a familiar BMW X family path in combining rugged off-road looks with generous presence. The exterior dimensions of the all-new BMW X3 may be largely unchanged, however, the wheelbase has been extended by 2.2-inches and its long hood, extremely short front overhang with finely balanced proportions, emphasize the perfect 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axle.

For the first time on a BMW X model, the front fascia features a muscular “three-dimensional” kidney grille and fog lights featuring a hexagonal design, underlining the confident character of the all-new BMW X3. Moving to the rear, the tail light housings whose three-dimensional look with the optional Adaptive LED and Icon Adaptive Full LED Headlights, give them considerable visual impact. A downward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust tailpipes add to the muscular appearance.

First ever factory-installed trailer hitch available in a BMW SAV.
The all-new BMW X3 will be the first BMW SAV in the US to feature a factory-installed trailer hitch. The new 2” receiver will enable customers to use a broad range of BMW Accessories including tongues, drop tongues, towing balls, a step to help access roof mounted accessories and several varieties of bike racks.

Standard xLine design, available Luxury Package.
The standard xLine design emphasizes the robustness of the Sports Activity Vehicle and stands out with numerous trim elements in Satin aluminum, Silver matte, and 18-inch Y-Spoke wheels with All-season Run Flat Tires (19-inch V-Spoke wheels with All-season Run Flat Tires are available as an upgrade option). On the interior, the driver and front passenger are welcomed by standard Sport Seats with power adjustable side bolsters, and an Anthracite headliner.

The optional Luxury Package, available for the first time in the X3 model range, emphasizes the SAV’s elegant character with features such as chrome kidney grille bars and two-tone front & rear bumper trim finishers on the exterior and a SensaTec upholstered dashboard on the interior.

M Sport Package.
The M Sport Package focuses its attentions on the dynamic prowess of the all-new BMW X3 with the M Aerodynamic kit (front apron with larger air intakes, side skirt trim, and a diffusor-style rear apron). Also included are Shadowline exterior trim and 19-inch M Double-Spoke Wheels with All-season Run Flat Tires or Performance Run Flat Tires. For customers seeking the most dynamic BMW X3, M Double-Spoke 20-inch Wheels with Mixed Performance Run Flat Tires are available as an upgrade option. The interior includes a new M Sport leather steering wheel, M door sill finishers and a SensaTec upholstered dashboard.

Interior and equipment: improved material quality and ergonomics.
The interior of the all-new BMW X3 follows BMW tradition with its driver-focused and ergonomically optimized cockpit layout and carries over many aspects of the car’s exterior design. For instance, hexagonal forms and precise, sloping edges also play a central role in the interior. The interior as a whole displays exceptional material quality, fit, and finish, with carefully thought ergonomics. One example here is the storage concept, which offers more storage space than ever before and ensures it is easier to access.

The all-new BMW X3 comes standard with several new, comfort enhancing features not offered on its predecessor. These include 3-zone automatic climate control, which adds separate temperature controls for the rear compartment to those for the driver and front passenger. To enhance rear compartment comfort, the angle of the standard 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat backrests can be adjusted individually and through various stages thanks to the standard cargo function. This feature also allows the backrests to be released remotely from the load compartment, which expands the standard load capacity of 28.7 ft3 to 62.7 ft3. Newly available convenient functions include front ventilated seats for driver and front passenger to maximize comfort on warm days. Customers can also give the interior a roomier feel with the 9.8-inch longer panoramic glass moonroof.

Contour lighting above the trim strip in the instrument panel is included with the available Extended Ambient Lighting, which directs a soft stream of light downwards from below the accent strip, lights the interior in a distinctive and relaxing ambience. At night, the iDrive display appears to be floating above the instrument panel. Customers can choose from six color tones.

Enhanced active prowess and improved comfort over all terrain.
The dynamic handling qualities of the all-new BMW X3 are directly linked to its ideal 50:50 weight distribution, its meticulously honed chassis and xDrive, BMW’s Intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which made its debut in 2003 when the first generation of the BMW X3 originally launched. Not only has the system been offering superior grip on slippery surfaces ever since, it has had a beneficial effect on driving dynamics too. This system is networked with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) allowing the power split between all four wheels to be constantly varied, providing the handling characteristics for which BMW is renowned.

The new Driving Dynamics Control toggle switch now also offers Adaptive Mode when the vehicle is equipped with Dynamic Damper Control in addition to configurations such as, ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ (M40i model only) modes.

Chassis dynamics: reduced mass and improved axle kinematics.
The 3rd generation of the BMW X3 continues to rely on its winning formula of a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear set-up at the rear. At the same time, this refreshingly engaging Sports Activity Vehicle delivers an even sportier driving experience than its predecessor without compromising on ride comfort. The engineers have succeeded in reducing a considerable amount in unsprung mass by fitting aluminum swivel bearings and lighter tubular anti-roll bars as well as optimizing wheel location at the front. Handling dynamics, straight-line stability and steering feel have all benefited from the improved axle kinematics and the Electric Power Steering system with Servotronic.

In an effort to improve handling dynamics, the rear bias of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been increased. Intelligent AWD management constantly adjusts the torque bias as the driving situation demands ensuring optimum driving dynamics.

In its basic specification, the all-new BMW X3 comes with 18-inch light-alloy wheels while wheels up to 21 inches in diameter are available depending on the equipment and engine variant. The powerful braking system features lightweight brakes offering optimized performance as well as an Electric Parking Brake. A broad array of electronic control systems help the driver maximize safety at all times. These systems include: Driving Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Start-Off Assistant, Performance Control, and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

The all-new BMW X3 M40i. First M Performance model in the X3 model line-up with best in segment acceleration.
The first ever M Performance model in the X3 lineup sets new standards with its sharper dynamics, high level of exclusivity and standout emotional appeal. The 3.0-liter M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology 6-cylinder inline engine ensures the all-new BMW X3 M40i sits at the top end of the model range. Output of 355 hp propels the flagship X3 from 0 to 60 mph in a best in segment time of 4.6 seconds. The X3 M40i also includes a wealth of model-specific set-up and equipment features, which both underpin and lend added impact to the exceptional performance credentials of this SAV.

The BMW X3 M40i is equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with Launch Control. This transmission is a perfect match for the engine’s dynamic characteristics and can be operated using shift paddles on the steering wheel. In addition, its xDrive all-wheel-drive system has a far more pronounced rear bias than on the other model versions. The Performance Control feature integrated into the DSC system and acting on the rear wheels has been reconfigured to produce agility and traction for which M Performance models are known for. Moving into the cabin, Sport seats and “M40i” logos adorning, for instance, the front door sills and instrument panel, provide visual emphasis of the car’s performance capabilities.

Among these features are the standard – and strikingly dynamic – M Performance-specific exterior design cues, which include the M Aerodynamic kit with design elements finished in Cerium Grey Metallic. The flap-controlled M Sport exhaust system with Black Chrome tailpipe embellishers, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension with M Performance specific tuning, Variable sport steering and standard 19-inch or optional 20-inch and 21-inch cast light-alloy wheels provide a distinctive sporting character. The X3 M40i can be equipped with the available Adaptive M Sport suspension, which covers an even wider spread of ride comfort featuring the sportiest set-up suspension available.

Dynamic options: M Sport suspension, Dynamic Damper Control, M Sport brakes and Variable sport steering.
The M Sports suspension, which is standard on the M40i model, offers the keen driver a firmer suspension (springs, dampers and anti-roll bars). Adaptive M Suspension is optionally available on the M40i model, offering electronically controlled dampers and even sportier suspension settings. Similarly, Dynamic Damper Control is available on the 30i model, and includes electronically controlled dampers that adapt the damper responses to the road surface and driving situation. At the same time, the driver can use the Driving Dynamics Control toggle switch to vary the basic suspension characteristics as they please between the more comfortable and sportier ends of the scale.

M Sport brakes are standard on the all-new BMW X3 M40i and feature blue-painted aluminum four-piston fixed calipers at the front and amply proportioned brake discs have high levels of thermal resistance to deliver phenomenal stopping power despite their extremely low weight. The standard Variable sport steering from the BMW X3 M40i is optionally available on the BMW X3 xDrive30i model.

Perfectly at home on rough terrain.
The all-new BMW X3 boasts the same off-road skills as its predecessor. The high ground clearance of 8 inches helps to ensure unhindered progress, not only when travelling along rutted gravel or sand tracks, over churned-up ground or in deep snow, but also on city roads while going over speed bumps. The approach angle (23.1°) and departure angle (21.4°) of the all-new BMW X3 together with its breakover angle of 17.4° create plenty of margin for negotiating steep sections or crests. Moreover, with a fording depth of 19.6 inches, the BMW X3 can tackle water crossings with ease as well.

The powertrain: Latest generation 4 and 6-cylinder inline engines.
The all-new BMW X3 line-up from launch consists of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology 2.0-liter 4-cylinder inline gasoline engine with Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing and Valvetronic fully variable intake lift, a map-controlled oil pump, electric arc wire-sprayed cylinder barrels, Twin-scroll exhaust turbocharger and electrically adjustable waste gate valve. The latest M Performance model, the BMW X3 M40i comes with a 3.0-liter M Performance TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline gasoline engine. The intake manifold integrated indirect charge air intercooler allows for a lower charge air volume between the compressor and intake valves, noticeably improving engine response. This translates to shorter air routing, faster boost pressure build-up, and throttle response.

Both engines come from the latest generation of BMW engines. Improvements have also been made to both the 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with shift paddles and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system to increase efficiency.

The BMW X3 M40i: new flagship model.
The all-new BMW X3 M40i heralds the arrival of the first ever M Performance Automobile in this model series. Power comes from a new M Performance TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline engine, which blends its insatiable appetite for revs and sublime pulling power with exemplary smoothness and efficiency. The 3.0-liter unit generates power output of 355 hp from 5,500 – 6,500 rpm. Peak torque of 369 lb-ft from 1,520 – 4,800 rpm, provide a 69 lb-ft – or 23 percent – increase (compared to the outgoing BMW X3 xDrive35i). This performance arsenal equips the all-new BMW X3 M40i to a best in segment sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph.

The BMW X3 xDrive30i. More power. More efficient.
The 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder gasoline engine in the all-new BMW X3 xDrive30i has an output of 248 hp (8 hp more than the outgoing BMW X3 xDrive28i). Maximum torque has of 258 lb-ft is on tap between just 1,450 and 4,800 rpm. The all-new BMW X3 xDrive30i reaches 60 mph from rest in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph

8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with shift paddles.
All models come standard with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with shift paddles. In the BMW X3 xDrive30i, the transmission tuning is matched to the engine’s specific performance characteristics, while the X3 M40i model’s transmission has been tuned to M Performance specifications. The transmission is designed to be even more efficient, helping to lower fuel consumption and emissions.

BMW xDrive: further improvements in terms of efficiency and weight.
The all-new BMW X3 is equipped with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard. The new model generation enjoys the benefits of both a more efficient and lighter rear differential, and a modified transfer case, which made its debut in the current BMW 7 Series, operates more efficiently, providing another fuel-saving measure.

Aerodynamic development results in improved drag coefficient.
Reducing aerodynamic drag not only helps to lower fuel consumption, it also has a beneficial effect on noise levels. Besides its aerodynamically optimized proportions, the all-new BMW X3 also features additional underbody cladding, for example, that provides unprecedented underbody sealing. Additional refinements, such as the BMW Active Kidney Grille, roof spoiler with Aero Blades at the sides, and BMW Air Curtains round off the aerodynamic measures. The latter system intelligently regulates the flow of cooling air for the engine, brakes and air conditioning with even greater flexibility, and offers both aerodynamic benefits and further potential for savings in terms of energy and heat management.

BMW ConnectedDrive.
Seamless connectivity between owners, their X3 and their smartphone.
The all-new BMW X3 also excels when it comes to Human Machine Interface (HMI) through a refined system. In addition to the iDrive Controller fitted as standard, specifying the Navigation system Professional featuring iDrive 6.0 enhances the iDrive Controller with a 10.25” display with Touchscreen technology. The optional BMW Gesture Control, which debuted on the current BMW 7 Series, adds a unique way to interface with the X3. BMW Gesture Control allows numerous infotainment, communication, and navigation functions to be operated intuitively using finger and hand gestures. The vehicle can also be controlled using the cloud-based Intelligent Voice Control, which offers the most advanced level of natural voice control currently available. This enables drivers to formulate their request in natural, everyday language instead of having to use a ridged set of spoken commands.

Linked up to the driver’s digital world thanks to BMW Connected.
The digital services from the BMW Connected app, available on both iOS and Android, bring intelligent connectivity to the all-new BMW X3 and unparalleled convenience for the driver. With the help of the Open Mobility Cloud platform, the digital services connect to the BMW X3 via devices such as smartphones or smartwatches, resulting in seamless connectivity.

The selection of devices that can connect to the new BMW X3 by means of BMW Connected go beyond the smartphone by supporting devices such as smart wearables like the Apple Watch and Samsung Gear (S2 and S3) to the Amazon Echo. Customers can use the Amazon Echo’s Alexa voice service to check the fuel level of their new X3, for instance, lock the vehicle or activate the ventilation function, all by voice control from the comfort of their home.

With BMW Connected, being on-time has never been simpler. Machine learning made possible by the Open Mobility Cloud allows BMW Connected to learn your routines and suggest the optimal time to leave for an appointment. Location based services and real time traffic information help optimize your journey even before entering the vehicle. When equipped with Navigation Professional, the Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information can continue to optimize your routing options. Car-to-car communication is now also employed within the inter-connected BMW fleet to provide advance warning of hazardous traffic situations. Information on any detected hazards presented by an accident, a broken-down vehicle, dense fog, heavy rain or black ice, for example, is also relayed to the BMW backend from where it is imported into the navigation system of both the driver’s car and other vehicles BMWs in the vicinity .

Intelligent Emergency Call with extended functionality.
The standard built-in SIM card also allows drivers of the all-new BMW X3 to use Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic locating and accident severity detection. With the new BMW Teleservice Accident Assistance, the vehicle now also detects low-speed collisions below the threshold for airbag deployment. The driver receives a message in the iDrive display offering to contact the BMW Accident Assistance service directly. A push of a button is all it takes to obtain professional support from the BMW Accident Assistance team, who can also put the customer in touch with a BMW Service Partner if necessary.

Detecting accidents before they happen.
The standard pre-crash accident detection system Active Protection enhances passive safety by detecting potential accident situations as they arise. If a collision risk is detected, the system automatically triggers a variety of occupant protection measures. The driver’s and front passenger’s belt tensioners are activated, and the windows and Panoramic moonroof are closed. Following a collision, Active Protection automatically brings the vehicle to a standstill. The Frontal Collision Warning function detects an imminent risk of collision with preceding vehicles, and prepares the vehicle systems for a possible impact from vehicles behind.

Parking with ease: ParkNow and On-Street Parking Information.
The ParkNow service, available in iDrive, allows parking spaces at the roadside and in parking garages to be easily located, booked and paid for without the need for cash. This can greatly shorten the time taken to find a free space. In-car integration of ParkNow is initially available in select cities nationwide. Visit www.park-now.com for details.

First launched with the BMW 5 Series, the new On-Street Parking Information (OSPI) service available in select cities helps alleviate the problem of vehicles searching for parking spaces – which accounts for a large part of traffic congestion in city centers. OSPI works in a similar way to the Advanced Real Time Traffic Information System, using historical and current data to draw conclusions regarding the availability of on-street parking spaces in specific zones or in a particular part of town. The probability of on street parking availability is shown on the Navigation Professional map, allowing the driver to minimize the need to continually circle the block in search of a spot.

The options list likewise includes a WiFi hotspot offering a high-speed internet connection (LTE) for up to ten mobile devices. Apple CarPlay is also available and can be used wirelessly in the all-new BMW X3. The driver can seamlessly switch between BMW and Apple CarPlay via the iDrive controller or touchscreen interface if equipped.

BMW Personal CoPilot: a comprehensive line-up of driver assistance systems.
When it comes to driver assistance and semi-automated driving, all the systems currently offered by BMW are available, such as the latest generation of Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, whose capabilities include braking the car to a halt in stop-and-go traffic and automatically restarting to drive. The Driving Assistance Package includes Active Blind Spot Protection, Lane Departure Warning, Daytime Pedestrian Protection, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collison Mitigation, Cross Traffic Alert rear, and Speed Limit Info (Navigation system required). The Driving Assistant Plus Package offers additional comfort features: Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Active Lane Keeping Assistant with Side Collision Avoidance, Traffic Jam Assistant, Evasion Aid & Cross Traffic alert front and rear.

The optional Head-Up Display allows the most important driving-related information to be projected directly into the driver’s field of vision. The 75 percent larger Head-Up Display in the all-new BMW X3 is unrivalled in its segment for graphics, resolution and display options. Another unique feature that the all-new BMW X3 boasts over its competitors is the Remote 3D View function, which can be used to beam a 360 degree, three-dimensional view of the car’s immediate vicinity directly to a smartphone through the BMW Connected App.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 and X4 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 342 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 152 BMW motorcycle retailers, 127 MINI passenger car dealers, and 36 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. 

-By: Sawyer Sutton

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