BMW X3 (2010 – 2018) Review

Sold between 2010 and 2017, the second-generation BMW X3 brought more space and a focus on on-road handling to this popular SUV. You’ll find xDrive four-wheel-drive versions are still able to head into the woods, but some rivals manage to go further. Given how well the X3 handles on tarmac, though, it would almost be a shame to get it dirty. Engine choices are diesel only, but range from frugal through to a fearsome twin-turbocharged model. Standard equipment is plentiful, with X3s made after the post-2014 facelift having the classiest interior. It all makes for a premium SUV that handles family life with ease.

The original BMW X3 felt a little bit rough and ready, with a cramped interior and compromised manners on the road. Lessons were clearly learnt by the German brand, however, as the second-generation X3, launched in 2010, fixed many of the complaints about the previous version.

In short, BMW fixed the lack of interior space, addressed the on-road dynamics and took steps to improve the quality of the interior. The result was a practical and desirable SUV that manages to deliver a rare degree of fun.

The X3 outshines the rival Audi Q5, and gives the sportier Porsche Macan real competition for being the ultimate driving machine. This is aided by light but accurate steering, with the big wheels generating plenty of grip.

Such ability comes with a downside. To make a large SUV drive like a sportier saloon, BMW fitted the X3 with stiffer suspension. It results in a harder ride than you might imagine, so abandon any ideas of cruising on pillow-like comfort.

The SE and xLine versions are not as badly affected, but still feel taut, whereas the M Sport is on another level. It has bespoke suspension settings that can be very firm with optional bigger wheels. Tellingly, BMW did offer an option to delete the M Sport suspension on these cars. 

Viewed through modern eyes, BMW’s decision to sell the X3 with diesel-only engine options might seem a little strange. Yet it was what the market demanded for a premium SUV back in 2010, and they do suit the nature of the X3 well. Choices range from four-cylinder units through to a truly impressive twin-turbocharged straight-six with 313PS. The latter offers a fantastic blend of performance and economy. 

Not all X3 models come with BMW’s xDrive four-wheel-drive system. In 2012, the sDrive version was launched, featuring a rear-wheel-drive layout aimed at road use only. X3s equipped with four-wheel drive can venture further than you might think on muddy tracks, but try not to get carried away. 

The 2014 facelift brought a major improvement in the level of the X3’s interior quality. With sturdier trim and more technology inside, they are more desirable than the earlier cars. Features such as satellite navigation and heating elements for the leather-clad front seats became standard equipment. 

Regardless of age, the X3 offers enough space to comfortably seat four adults, although adding a fifth to the centre rear seat can be a squeeze. The boot is generous, with 550 litres of luggage capacity making it bigger than rivals like the Porsche Macan. 

Having atoned for the errors of the original, there is plenty to recommend about the second-generation BMW X3. Post-2014 models in particular deliver on the expectations of a premium SUV, with a classy interior and ability both on and off the road. 

If you're looking for the newer version, you need our BMW X3 review.

BMW made the second-generation X3 noticeably bigger than the original, learning from customer feedback to offer more interior space. 

Room in the front of the cabin is luxurious, aided by seats that offer plenty of adjustment. Things are slightly less spacious in the rear, but the X3 will happily accommodate two adults on the back bench. A raised transmission tunnel makes the central fifth seat uncomfortable for long periods of time. 

The boot of the second-generation X3 was enlarged to accommodate 550 litres of luggage with the rear seats in place. Such a capacity makes it more useful than a contemporary Audi Q5 or Porsche Macan. Folding the rear seats boosts the cargo space to a considerable 1,600 litres.

Although the rear seats split and fold 60:40 as standard, an optional through-loading kit changed this to 40/20/40 instead. Roof rails are fitted to all X3s, offering the potential to fit a roof box or roof rack.

All models across the X3 range came with ‘Nevada’ leather upholstery as standard. This could be specified in a number of different colours, with the front seats also heated. A leather-wrapped steering wheel was also fitted to all X3s, adding an extra touch of luxury. 

Interior trim finishes ranged from satin silver in SE models to brushed aluminium in M Sport X3s. The xLine has a curious dark copper trim with a high gloss finish.

Lots of development work has seen BMW create one of the better multimedia systems available. Covering infotainment duties in all X3s, iDrive is a user-friendly system that operates via a rotary controller on the centre console. 

All versions have at least a 6.5-inch display, with a bigger 8.8-inch screen available as part of the costly BMW Professional Multimedia package. 

Updates in 2013 saw an overhaul of the graphics used by the iDrive system, along with extra kit included. DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity are fitted to all models after this date, with satellite navigation becoming standard after the 2014 facelift.

Pricing for the last versions of the X3 range began with the sDrive18d SE, starting from £31,165. The price range stretched through to the range-topping xDrive35d M Sport, which cost a considerable £47,145.

The X3 options list held the potential to turn a reasonably priced premium SUV into a very expensive one. Adding the Driving Assistance Package, with extra safety equipment, would cost £1,400. The Variable Damper Control adaptive suspension was £960, with the automatic transmission adding £1,660.

Having proved so popular when new, there is a strong supply of X3s in the used marketplace. A broad price range will encompass cheaper models with second-hand specialists, through to the later models offered by BMW dealerships. 

M Sport models make up the bulk of used X3s on sale, making xLine and SE versions harder to find. Of the various engine options, the 20d is the most common version. With so many cars available, it pays to shop around and get the best X3 you can afford. 

With their improved interiors and better fuel economy, post-2014 facelift models make the smartest buy. Their desirability is shown by the fact a low-mileage 2017 xDrive20d M Sport will cost from £25,000 at a BMW dealership. 

Should you want maximum performance in your X3, the twin-turbocharged straight-six xDrive35d will cost up to £29,000.

The BMW X3 may be a premium SUV, but the fitment of diesel-only engines means that running costs are not as extravagant as you might fear. 

Maximum fuel efficiency can be found in the post-2014 facelift models with the 2.0-litre 20d engine. When combined with the smallest 17-inch alloy wheels and the automatic gearbox, these models can officially return 57.6mpg.

Cementing the fact that the entire engine range offers useful economy is the range-topping 35d model. Even this X3, with a powerful six-cylinder engine, can achieve 47.1mpg. This is the same fuel efficiency as found in the less powerful 30d. 

As a sizeable SUV with a desirable badge on the bonnet, the X3 will incur insurance costs higher than more budget-priced alternatives. The rear-wheel-drive 18d sDrive should be the least expensive to insure, being rated in insurance group 23 (out of 50). At the other end of the scale, the range-topping 35d falls into group 43 for post-2014 facelift models.

The X3 spans multiple different VED (road tax) regimes, meaning the same model can incur different costs dependent on the date of first registration. 

Early versions of the 18d and 20d will fall into VED bands E and F, seeing payments of £150 or £165 a year. Some of the last 2017 X3s fall inside the post April-2017 VED regime, and had a list price of more than £40,000. This means a 30d or 35d could incur a £475 annual charge for five years after the initial payment.

The steering offers decent feedback, while SE and xLine models impress with their handling ability. M Sport models have upgraded sports suspension, bringing even greater cornering prowess. 

Heading off the beaten track, xDrive four-wheel drive versions of the X3 will make reasonable progress. A Land Rover Discovery Sport would drive deeper into the woods, but the X3 will be sufficient for most buyers. Hill Descent Control can be found on xDrive models. 

A downside to the sporty handling, especially on M Sport models, is a brittle ride. Although never back-breakingly stiff, it may be a shock for those who expect a cosseting SUV experience. The optional Variable Damper Control can deliver the best of both worlds with selectable stiffness levels.

BMW sold the second-generation X3 solely with diesel engines throughout its lifespan. Performance ranges from frugal to formidable, depending on the option chosen. 

The range starts with the 18d 2.0-litre turbo, producing 143PS and sold only in the sDrive rear-wheel-drive guise. It lacks performance, and is best avoided unless you strongly dislike the idea of four-wheel drive.

With 184PS (later upgraded to 190PS), the 2.0-litre turbo 20d feels a lot more energetic on the road. Initially offered with a manual gearbox as standard, and automatic gearbox was also on the options list. Four-wheel drive was fitted to all versions. 

More performance can be found in the single-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder 30d. It packs a bigger punch with 258PS, and was supplied with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. 

Topping the engine range is the impressive twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre 35d. Producing 313PS, it has the power to shame sports cars, yet still retains a reasonable degree of frugality.

The second-generation X3 was submitted for crash testing by the Euro NCAP organisation when new, scoring the maximum rating of five stars. 

There is a wealth of standard safety equipment onboard, with multiple airbags and standard electronic stability control. Models with xDrive four-wheel drive can also send torque to the wheel with the most grip.

Front and rear parking sensors are standard, with a rear-view or surround-view camera on the options list. A Driving Assistance Package, including lane-keep assist, city emergency braking and forward collision warning, became available later. 

BMW did not supply a spare tyre, relying on run-flat tyres or a puncture repair compressor instead.

The BMW X3 is well-suited to being a tow car, with torquey diesel engines and solid construction. BMW offered a towbar as a £765 accessory when new. 

Almost all xDrive20d models with an automatic gearbox can tow up to 2400kg with a braked trailer. With a kerb weight of 1715kg, the X3 could comfortably tow 1458kg based on the accepted 85 percent rule.

BMW managed to keep the number of trim levels offered for the second-generation X3 to a minimum.

SE marks the entry-level into the range, with 17-inch wheels, seats clad in leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and parking sensors front and rear. Later changes would see DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity included as well.

The xLine model was introduced in 2014, bringing extra aluminium trim to the outside of the X3. Also included was a leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus a set of special 18-inch alloy wheels. 

M Sport represents the top of the range, and proved popular with buyers. Key features consist of M Sport body styling, 18-inch alloy wheels (later upgraded to 19-inch) and M Sport suspension. Aluminium trim is used inside, with sports seats installed as well.

SE models have Nevada leather upholstery, two-zone air conditioning, Cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear PDC, Drive Performance Control, Rain sensor and automatic headlights. In 2014 this was added to with BMW Business navigation system, heated front seats and an automatic tailgate.

SE Plus package adds Harman-kardon loudspeakers, Sun protection glass, Adaptive Headlights, High-beam Assistant and a one-inch increase in alloy wheel size for an additional £2850.

xLine models can be identified by gleaming metallic inserts in the bumpers, Satin Aluminium side cladding and bars in the air intakes, simulated underguards at the front and rear and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, xLines feature leather upholstery, Dark Copper trim and a Sport leather steering wheel. xLine variants command a £1500 price premium over SE models.

M Sport models feature M aerodynamic styling and BMW Individual High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, along with upgraded 18-inch light alloy wheels (19-inch from 2014). Inside, there’s a BMW Individual rooflining in Anthracite, Sport seats, M Sport leather steering wheel and Aluminium Hexagon trim, technical highlights include Performance Control and M Sport suspension. M Sport models carry a further £1500 price premium over the xLine variants.

M Sport Plus adds a new 20-inch M Sport bi-colour alloy wheel, Xenon headlights, Sun protection glass and Harman-kardon loudspeakers for £2920.