BMW X3 Review 2024

BMW X3 At A Glance

5/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The best-handling premium family SUV, the BMW X3 backs this up with an excellent interior, a decent selection of features as standard and plenty of space.

+Class-leading interior with a real quality feel, plenty of space in the cabin and boot, decent handling is complemented by a good range of engines.

-There's no 7-seat option unlike some rivals, some desirable options can be pricey.

New prices start from £43,370, brokers can source from £43,837
Insurance Groups are between 10–45
On average it achieves 85% of the official MPG figure

The X3 is BMW's mid-size family SUV, combing rugged off-road looks with sporting presence. Competing against the likes of Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Land Rover Discovery Sport, the BMW X3 is the best of the bunch when it comes to handling, while its complemented by a quality interior and raised driving position. But does it make it the pick of the bunch? Find out in our BMW X3 review.

The BMW X3 is now in its third generation and we now think it's one of the best SUVs going. That's not to say it's always been the pick of the crop. The first iteration of the X3 arrived back in 2004 and received a lukewarm reception, while the second version appeared in 2010 and took things up a notch. While it was an improvement, it wasn't quite enough to muscle its way to top of a pile that was beginning to look increasingly crowded. 

This third-generation BMW X3 arrived back in 2018 and had an update in 2022, with the car sitting above the more compact X1 and below the larger X5 and X7 in BMW's range of SUVs. 

Despite all models featuring four-wheel drive, the BMW X3 shouldn't be thought of as a go-anywhere 4x4. The focus here is very much on a versatile family car that delivers an engaging drive and is happiest on the open road or a motorway. 

If you're set on an SUV but still want something entertaining to drive, then the BMW X3 is the pick of the bunch compared to rivals like the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. It tackles bends that bit more competently, feeling more planted when you head into a corner.

The BMW X3 also comes with a decent range of engines. There's both four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel options, including a 510PS M Competition option. There's also a plug-in hybrid option as well with a range of 30 miles on electric power alone, while those looking for an electric-only option have the recently launched BMW iX3

The interior of the BMW X3 is everything you'd hope to find in a luxury SUV. There's plenty of space in the cabin, while the quality of finish and materials used excellent. You'd be hard pushed to find a nicer quality interior in a premium mid-sized SUV. 

The boot space in the BMW X3 is also very good at a roomy 550 litres, though if you opt for the plug-in hybrid version, the boot shrinks down to 450 litres to accommodate the additional batteries. 

There's also plenty of tech on offer with the BMW X3, with the latest cars coming with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital dash. The infotainment system is one of the best around, especially if you use the intuitive iDrive interface to work your way around it.  

The BMW X3 is an easy premium SUV to recommend. It drives well, the interior quality is excellent, there's a spacious cabin, decent boot and an engine option to suit. Add in the fact that it's the best driving car in its class and comes with a decent range of standard kit and it's definitely one of our top picks. 

Looking for a second opinion? Read heycar's BMW X3 review.

BMW X3 handling and engines

Driving Rating
The best handling SUV in its class, while there's also a decent choice of engines and plenty of safety tech.

BMW X3 2024: Handling and ride quality

While you don't buy a SUV for its handling prowess, the BMW X3 is one of the best handling premium SUVs you can buy. 

On the one hand it's nice and comfortable (especially if you avoid the large alloy wheels), travelling over the hotch-potch of British road surfaces, while you can show it a windy road with some smooth tarmac and it'll reward with excellent body control for a car of this size. 

The BMW X3 has what the company calls Variable Sport Steering across all trim levels, varying the weight depending on your speed. This sees the steering feeling lighter at low-speed and and gets that bit heavier as the speed picks up. This makes it really easy to manoeuvre at lower speeds round town, but feels more precise when navigating a twisty, fast road. 

You can spec the BMW M Sport with adaptive suspension as part of the M Sport Pro Pack at £2,200. It's certainly a costly option, but in Comfort mode the ride is nice and supple, while Sport mode firms things up just enough for a more engaging driving experience. 

BMW X3 2024: Engines

The BMW X3's engine range kicks off with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, badged xDrive20i. If you're wondering what the xDrive is all about, it's the name given to BMW's excellent four-wheel drive system and it's something that's standard across the X3 range.

This delivers 184PS and a 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds, though if you're looking for a bit more punch, the the diesel alternative is the answer. Badged the xDrive20d, its got 190PS and 7.9 seconds, while delivering 48.7mpg compared to the 37.2mpg of the petrol. While diesel might not be that attractive to many buyers, it's the pick of the range. 

If you want something even smoother, there's also a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel in the shape of the xDrive30d. With 286PS it hits 62mph in 5.7 seconds and is a lot smoother at motorway speeds. It's not too shady for fuel economy either at 44.8mpg. 

For those that do regular short trips, then the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid is the one to go for. This pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 109PS electric motor to deliver a combined power output of 292PS and a 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds.

While you can use the electric motor to assist the engine, it can run on electric power alone for up to 30 miles. Perfect if you've got a short commute and you can charge it easily as chances are you'll hardly ever have to have the petrol engine kick in.

It also has a claimed fuel economy of 134.5mpg, though this will drop significantly if you don't charge it - it'll be like having a X3 xDrive20i, but you'll be lugging a load of extra dead weight thanks to the drained batteries. 

If you're not too fussed about fuel economy and wanting something with a bit more kick, then there's either the X3 M40i (360PS) or X3 M40d (340PS).

Both of these six-cylinder engines pack plenty of punch, and it's that's not quite enough there's the flagship M Competition with 510PS and a sports car-worrying 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. Overkill for a mid-size SUV? Quite possibly - we reckon the M40i should serve those looking for a fast SUV just as well and it's bit more refined, while it's also significantly more affordable. 

BMW X3 2024: Safety

Just like it's key rivals - the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60 - the BMW X3 scores a maximum five-star rating in the stringent Euro NCAP crash test. Dig a little into the figures, and the GLC and XC60 edge the X3 on individual adult and child protection categories, but not by much. Certainly not enough to dissuade you away from the X3. 

There's no shortage of safety equipment as standard, with the BMW X3 coming with six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, electric stability control, LED headlights and cruise control. There's also plenty of extra safety tech on offer as well. There's a safety pack called Driving Assistant that's designed to reduce the risk of you have a potential collision in your X3. 

This pack comes as standard on BMW X3s, with safety features including Lane Departure Warning (the steering wheel vibrates as an alert should you move out of your lane without using the car's indicators), Approach Control, Person Warning and Cross Traffic Warning (rear).  

If that's not enough there's the optional Driving Assistant Professional at £1,250. This comes with a number of features, including things like Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control and Emergency Stop Assistant, as well as things like Crossing Traffic Warning (front) and Evasion Assistant. 

There's also a rear camera to help with parking, though if you want a complete 360-degree view of your X3 as you manoeuvre it, there's Parking Assistant Plus that adds surround view cameras.

BMW X3 2024: Towing

Regardless of which engine you plump for, the BMW X3 has a maximum braked towing weight up to 2,000kg. Good, but the Audi Q5 has a maximum braked towing weight up to 2,400kg that makes it more suited to larger caravans. 

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
M40d 44 mpg 4.9 s 169 g/km
M40d MHEV - 4.9 s 169–181 g/km
M40i 31–44 mpg 4.8–4.9 s 170–225 g/km
M40i MHEV - 4.9 s 205–207 g/km
X3 M Competition - 4.1 s 239 g/km
X4 M Competition 25 mpg 4.1 s 239 g/km
xDrive 20d Automatic 51–53 mpg 8.0 s 132 g/km
xDrive 20d MHEV Automatic - 7.9–8.0 s 125–157 g/km
xDrive 20i Automatic 39–40 mpg 8.3 s 163–166 g/km
xDrive 20i MHEV Automatic - 8.4 s 175 g/km
xDrive 30d 49 mpg 5.8 s 153–156 g/km
xDrive 30d Automatic 47–49 mpg 5.8 s 149 g/km
xDrive 30d MHEV - 5.8 s 159–163 g/km
xDrive 30d MHEV Automatic - 5.8 s 161–165 g/km
xDrive 30e - 6.1 s 49 g/km

Real MPG average for the BMW X3

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

85%

Real MPG

16–56 mpg

MPGs submitted

331

BMW X3 interior

Interior Rating
The BMW X3's interior is one of the best you'll find in a mid-size premium SUV. Quality materials and thoughtful design are complemented by a very practical cabin with plenty of space.
Dimensions
Length 4708–4752 mm
Width 2136–2138 mm
Height 1621–1676 mm
Wheelbase 2864 mm

Full specifications

BMW X3 2024: Practicality

You're not short-changed when it comes to boot space either. The BMW X3 has a 550-litre boot (a match for its premium German rivals) and while it's not possible to enlarge this further as the rear seats don't slide forward, there should be plenty of space for most family needs. 

On the occasions you need need to lug more luggage around (or stuff for the local tip), then simply pull the two handles in the boot and the rear seat will collapse forward and sit almost perfectly flat. Depending on what you need to carry (and how many passengers you need to drive round), the rear bench seat can be split three ways. With the rear seats folded back boot capacity of the BMW X3 increases to 1,600 litres - a bit more than the Audi Q5. 

As you expect for a premium SUV, the boot open and closes electronically with the push of the button on the key fob, while the lack of a lip on the edge of the boot makes it easier to lug cumbersome items in. 

If you plump for the plug-in hybrid X3, things aren't quite as impressive, with boot capacity dropping to 450 litres. The lump for the batteries means that there's a noticeable step up compared to the opening of the boot, making the boot space a little less practical than with the standard car. 

Whichever engine you opt for, passengers should have no issues thanks to the spacious cabin. Thanks to the design of the BMW X3 and its relatively boxy dimensions, there's ample headroom for both front and rear occupants, while even tall passengers should have a decent amount of legroom. 

Those with larger families, though, will be disappointed to hear that there's no 7-seater variant. If you want a third row of seats you'll have to dig a bit deeper for the X5 (or even the X7) or option seven seats on a Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Buyers might want to option with Comfort Pack, which adds a number of extras. Though the standard car has plenty of places to stow bits away, the BMW X3 with the Comfort Pack adds a heated steering wheel, keyless entry, extra hooks, lashing points in the boot (with the exception of the PHEV model) and rear seat backrest adjustment.

The BMW X3 measures 4,708mm long, 1,891mm wide (excluding mirrors) and 1,676mm tall. How does that compare to its rivals? It's a bit longer than the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5, but a little bit shorter than the Jaguar F-Pace.  

BMW X3 2024: Quality and finish

There's no disputing the quality if the BMW X3's interior, rivalling the Audi Q5 for the crown of best finished interior in a mid-sized SUV. 

From the feel of the various controls dotted round the cabin of the X3 that provide a satisfying connection to the car to the quality of materials used, there's a real air of quality inside the X3. The soft-touch plastics have a nice tactile feel, while the seats are trimmed in leather. You're not just subjected to black hide, with a choice of brown, beige and white alternatives, while there's also a range of dash finishers to pick from as well. What options you have will depend on the trim level you choose, but there's polished wood, carbon fibre, aluminium or piano black dash finishers.

The BMW X3 also comes with plenty of kit as standard, so depending on your needs, there might not been a great temptation to upgrade to the next trim level. 

BMW X3 2024: Infotainment

While rivals like Audi and Volvo have tried to squeeze every feature into the touchscreen infotainment system, BMW hasn't. While it might sound a little behind the times, the presence of physical controls makes the X3 a more intuitive car to use. Rather than having to rely in a touchscreen to control the climate control for example, the X3 has dedicated dash-mounted controls - something that's a lot easier to use while driving. 

The BMW X3 uses the brand's much-lauded iDrive system that's nice and straightforward to use. There's both touchscreen and voice control functionality, but the best way to interact with the iDrive system is the scroll wheel that sits between the front seats. 

The X3 originally featured an 8.8-inch central display on entry-level SE or xLine trims, with M Sport spec cars get a 10.5-inch central display. That's changed with the facelifted 2022 BMW X3, with all models getting a huge 12.3-inch touchscreen. The clarity and resolution is great (the rearview camera is pin-sharp in the display), while those preferring to use the touchscreen over iDrive will find an incredibly responsive display. 

All cars also get what BMW terms 'Live Cockpit', with physical dials replaced by a 12.3-inch display with a suite of digital dials. 

The standard stereo is a solid offering, but for audiophiles the upgrade to the Harmon/Kardon system with 16 speakers and a 600W amplifier is the way to go. You can spec this upgrade on its own for £820, or as part of the £1,700 Technology Pack. As well as the improved audio, you also get gesture control (to help keep that large touchscreen fingerprint-free), wireless phone charging and WiFi hotspot included too.

BMW X3 value for money

Value for Money Rating
The BMW X3 isn't the most affordable mid-size SUV, but it's in line with key rivals. Choose carefully on what engine's right for your needs and what type of driving you do.

BMW X3 2024: Prices

The price for a new BMW X3 starts at £45,485 for the xDrive20i petrol in xLine trim. Expect to find a decent level of standard equipment, so unless you want the sportier looks of the M Sport version, you might not feel the need to spec it beyond this.

If you're one of the decreasing number of people who want a diesel engine (though you should if you cover a lot of miles), you'll pay £46,570 for the xDrive20d, while the plug-in hybrid (xDrive30e) will set you back £53,730. 

If you do want something that has a bit more presence, then the BMW X3 xDrive20i in M Sport trim starts at £47,385 and tops out at £55,530 for the plug-in xDrive30e. That's a little bit more than the equivalent plug-in hybrid Audi Q5, though not by much and deals may vary. 

The BMW X3 in top of the line M trim starts at £61,590 for the M40d diesel. The M40i petrol is a little bit more at £62,065, while the 510PS M Competition starts at £89,070. 

BMW X3 2024: Running Costs

If you're looking for the most efficient variant, then the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid is the most cost-effective to run. BMW quotes an impressive 141.2mpg with CO2 emissions at just 45g/km, though that's a little less than 166.2mpg and 41g/km quoted by Audi for the Q5 plug-in hybrid. 

This does depend on usage however and the type of driving you do. Plug it in and charge it regularly for short trips and commutes under 30 miles (the electric range of X3 plug-in hybrid), you'll unlikely need the engine to kick in. If you're regularly covering long distances, then you'll be better off with a diesel. 

Speaking of which, the xDrive20d diesel in the BMW X3 delivers 48.7mpg - that's some 10mpg better than the xDrive20i petrol that has an official consumption figure of 37.2mpg. There's also a more powerful 286PS diesel available on the BMW X3 M Sport (the xDrive30d) that still delivers a decent 44.8mpg.

If you're looking at the straight six -powered X3 M Competition, you'll be lucky to get the claimed 26.2mpg, though things are a little better with the X3 M40i at 31mpg. If you want performance but still want to keep an eye on fuel economy, then the X3 M40d delivers 40.9mpg. 

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BMW X3 models and specs

Dimensions
Length 4708–4752 mm
Width 2136–2138 mm
Height 1621–1676 mm
Wheelbase 2864 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1715–2095 kg
Boot Space 450–1600 L
Warranty 3 years / Unlimited miles
Servicing 9300–18000 miles
Costs
List Price £43,370–£80,915
Insurance Groups 10–45
Road Tax Bands A–L
Official MPG 24.8–53.3 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 5

Currently on sale

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
5 Door Competition Auto 4dr £80,915 24.8 mpg 4.1 s
5 Door xDrive20d 48V Mht M Sport Auto G02 4dr £48,625 - 8.0 s
M40d xDrive 40d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr £62,655 - 4.9 s
M40i xDrive 40i 360 MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 4dr £63,105 - 4.9 s
xDrive30d M Sport xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr £55,470 - 5.8 s
SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Competition Auto 5dr £75,320 - 4.1 s
M40d xDrive M40d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 5dr £59,700 - 4.9 s
M40i xDrive M40i 360 MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 5dr £59,010 - 4.9 s
xDrive20d 48V Mht M Sport Auto 5dr £45,720 - 7.9 s
xDrive20d 48V Mht xLine Auto 5dr £43,970 - 7.9 s
xDrive20i M Sport xDrive20i 48v MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 5dr £45,170 - 8.4 s
xDrive20i xLine xDrive20i 48v MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 5dr £43,370 - 8.4 s
xDrive30d M Sport xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 5dr £52,515 - 5.8 s
xDrive30e M Sport Auto 5dr £52,400 - 6.1 s
xDrive30e xLine Auto 5dr £50,600 - 6.1 s

On sale until August 2022

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
xDrive M40d M Pro Edition xDrive 40d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr - - 4.9 s
xDrive M40i M Pro Edition xDrive 40i 360 MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 4dr - - 4.9 s
SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40d M Pro Edition xDrive M40d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 5dr - - 4.9 s
M40i M Pro Edition xDrive M40i 360 MHEV Step Auto Start/Stop 5dr £67,335 - 4.9 s

On sale until June 2022

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
5 Door xDrive20d 48V Mht Sport Auto G02 4dr £45,775 - 8.0 s
5 Door xDrv20d 48V Mht M Sport X Auto G02 4dr £50,025 - 8.0 s
xDrive30d M Sport X xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr £55,810 - 5.8 s
xDrive30d Sport xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 4dr £51,560 - 5.8 s
SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
xDrive20d 48V Mht SE Auto 5dr £43,070 - 7.9 s
xDrive30d SE xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 5dr £48,855 - 5.8 s
xDrive30d xLine xDrive 30d Step Auto MHEV Start/Stop 5dr £49,755 - 5.8 s
xDrive30e SE Auto 5dr £49,250 - 6.1 s

On sale until September 2021

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40i xDrive 40i 360 Step Auto Start/Stop 4dr - - -
SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40i ZA Auto 5dr - - 4.8 s
xDrive20i M Sport Plus Pack Auto 5dr - - -
xDrive20i SE Auto 5dr - 39.8 mpg 8.3 s
xDrive20i xLine Auto 5dr - 38.7 mpg 8.3 s

On sale until June 2021

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40i 354 Step Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -

On sale until November 2020

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
5 Door M40i Auto G02 4dr - 44.1 mpg 4.9 s
5 Door xDrive30d M Sport Plus Pack Auto G02 4dr - - -
5 Door xDrive30d M Sport X Plus Pack Auto G02 4dr - - -
5 Door xDrive30d Sport Auto G02 4dr - 48.7 mpg 5.8 s
SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40d Auto 5dr - 44.1 mpg 4.9 s
xDrive30d M Sport Plus Pack Auto 5dr - - -
xDrive30d SE Auto 5dr - 48.7 mpg 5.8 s
xDrive30d xLine Auto 5dr - 47.1 mpg 5.8 s

On sale until July 2020

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
xDrive20d M Sport Auto 5dr - 51.4 mpg 8.0 s
xDrive20d SE Auto 5dr - 53.3 mpg 8.0 s
xDrive20d xLine Auto 5dr - 51.4 mpg 8.0 s

On sale until April 2019

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
M40i Auto 5dr £52,865 31.0 mpg 4.8 s

Model History

July 2017

Details of 2018 BMW X3 announced

Available with a new 2.0 litre petrol engine alongside the 2.0 litre diesel, M40i high performance petrol model and 3.0 litre diesel.

4,708mm long x 1,891mm wide (2,138mm with mirrors) x 1,676mm high.

The three trim variants: SE model features LED Headlights and taillights as standard, along with aluminium satinated roof rails and a new 18-inch wheel. The xLine model gets a satin/aluminium radiator grille, more rugged front and rear bumpers with silver metallic side sills along with 19-inch xLine specific wheels.

Wheel and tyre sizes are:

18-inch wheels with 225/60 R18 tyres

19-inch wheels with 245/50 R19 fronts and 275/40 R19 rears

20-inch wheels with 245/45 R20 all round or 245/45 R20 fronts and 275/35 R20 rears

21-inch wheels with 245/40 R21 fronts and 275/35 R21 rears

Sports-oriented M Sport model has M aerodynamic features, optional blue-painted brake callipers, a more dramatic 19-inch wheel design and optional exterior paint shade of Phytonic Blue.

New M40i features a unique M Performance exterior design with Cerium Grey kidney frames, front and rear bumper inserts, mirror caps, window graphics and air breather. The rear tailpipes have an elongated rectangular shape in black chrome. A new optional 21-inch wheel is limited to the M40i only.

Inside the X3 is a driver-focused and ergonomically designed cockpit. Hexagonal forms and precise, bevelled edges are the design theme. Perforated leather climate seats are optional for driver and front passenger, which, as well as heating for cold days, offer active seat ventilation to provide more comfort when the going gets hotter.

Another option is a generously sized panoramic glass roof, while acoustic windscreen glazing contributes to extremely low noise levels in the cabin. The two front side windows are also available with acoustic glazing as an option, ensuring that even less wind noise makes it into the interior.

In basic specification, the new X3 comes on 18-inch light-alloy wheels (17-inch previously), while wheels up to 21-inches in diameter are available depending on the specification and engine variant.

The sports suspension that forms part of the M Sport package can also be ordered as a separate option. It offers firmer suspension and damping and beefs up the anti-roll bars. Alternatively, there is also the option of Dynamic Damper Control with electronically controlled dampers, which adapts the damper responses to the road surface and driving conditions.

Variable sport steering is standard on the BMW X3 M40i and xDrive 30d, and can be specified as an option on the two litre diesel and petrol.

The approach angle (25.7°) and departure angle (22.6°), together with a breakover angle of 19.4°, create plenty of margin for negotiating steep sections or crests. And with a fording depth of 500 millimetres, the X3 can tackle most obstacles with ease as well.

From launch, the X3 model line-up consists of the xDrive20d with four-cylinder diesel engine, the xDrive30d with a straight-six diesel units.

The range-topping M40i is powered by a new M Performance 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, which generates 360PS, an increase of 54PS over the most powerful petrol variant in the current range. Peak torque of 500Nm. It can sprint from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph.

The 3.0-litre straight-six of the new xDrive30d delivers 265PS and peak torque has been increased by 80Nm to 620Nm. Zero to 62 mph takes just 5.8 seconds and it can reach a top speed of 149 mph. It returns average fuel consumption of 49.6mpg while CO2 emissions have been cut to 149g/km.

The xDrive20d has an unchanged power output of 190PS, 400Nm of torque and does zero to 62mph in 8.0 seconds, with a top speed of 132mph. All the engine variants are equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, matched to the power unit’s specific performance characteristics.

Model

Power (hp)

Torque (Nm)

0 – 62mph (Seconds)

Top Speed (mph)

Combined (mpg)

CO2 Emissions (g/km)

From

January 0001

(OTR)

BMW X3 xDrive 20d

190

400

8.0

132

56.5

132

£38,880

BMW X3 xDrive 30d

265

620

5.8

149

49.6

149

£44,380

BMW X3 M40i

360

500

4.8

155

34.5

188

£51,280

September 2017

X3 xDrive20i introduced

From December 2017, a new four-cylinder petrol engine will be added to the BMW X3.

It comes as standard with the combination of an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and intelligent all-wheel drive technology, BMW xDrive. The engine featured in the new BMW X3 xDrive20i delivers a maximum power output of 184PS and a peak torque of 290Nm.

Acceleration time is 8.3 seconds from zero to 62mph, with average fuel consumption of 39.8mpg and CO 2 emission levels 163g/km.

July 2018

BMW X3 M40d introduced

In the BMW X3 M40d, an in-line six-cylinder diesel engine generates a peak output of 326PS and a maximum torque of 680Nm. Thanks to multi-stage turbocharging and common rail direct injection with piezo injectors, the car accelerates from zero to 62mph in 4.9 seconds.

Model

Power
(hp)

Torque
(Nm)

0 – 62mph
(seconds)

Top Speed
(mph)

Combined
(mpg)

CO2 Emissions
(g/km)

Price

BMW X3

M40d

326

680

4.9

155

44.1

169

£52,455

November 2019

BMW X3 xDrive30e launched

The new BMW X3 xDrive30e has an electric range of up to 34 miles and offers a combined economy of 128.4-117.7mpg along with CO2 emissions of 49g/km.

Its plug-in hybrid drivetrain comprises a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology combined with an electric motor resulting in a total output of 252PS. As standard, the BMW X3 xDrive30e is equipped with XtraBoost, an on-demand performance system that increases the power output of the hybrid-drive system by 41PS at the touch of a button.

Peak Power (PS)

Peak Torque (Nm)

Peak Power with XtraBoost (PS)

Acceleration (0-62mph)

Top Speed (mph)

CO2 emissions (g/km)*

Combined Fuel Consumption* (mpg)

Electric-only range (miles)

OTR
Price

BMW

X3 xDrive30e

252

420

292

6.1

130

49

128.4 – 117.7

34

£47,565


The new BMW X3 xDrive30e also features regenerative braking to optimise efficiency. The system’s high-voltage battery stores the energy captured during braking, with the electric motor taking on the function of a generator. The high-voltage battery also supplies the vehicle’s electrical system. This means that a generator powered by the combustion engine is no longer necessary, increasing overall efficiency.

Drive is transmitted – both in hybrid and electric modes – via an eight-speed Steptronic gearbox and xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive to enable the BMW X3 xDrive30e to accelerate from zero to 62mph in just 6.1 seconds.

The X3 xDrive30e’s lithium-ion battery is located under the rear seat to save space, helping to deliver a luggage capacity of 450 litres. The X3 xDrive30e is offered in the same model configurations as other X3 variants – SE, xLine and the range-topping M Sport trims.

Production of the new BMW X3 xDrive30e will commence in December 2019 and it will be joined by an ell-electric X3 model, due to make its debut in 2020.

December 2019

Latest fuel and emissions figures for BMW X3 xDrive30e fuel consumption combined: 2.4 - 2.1 l/100 km (118-135mpg); combined power consumption: 17.2 - 16.4 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 54 - 49 g/km

What to watch out for

01-04-2018:

First report of some teething troubles with a BMW G01 X3 M40i that the owner is otherwise delighted with. "There is some vibration coming from the steering wheel which wasn’t so noticeable in the first few days. I have spoken to my very friendly local BMW dealer who is taking it in a couple of days to check it over. Unfortunately I have also had some intermittent electronic issues. For instance, the car once slammed the brakes on for no discernible reason (nothing around to trigger the AEB) and the digital dashboard literally switched itself off for a second when I was adjusting the electric seats. I have mentioned this to BMW who will investigate but unlike the steering issue which is something that can easily be replicated, the electrical issues are rare and have only occurred a few times in the 500 miles that I have covered and I am concerned that if BMW cannot see it, they will simply not be able to do anything about it."

06-06-2018:

Report of delivery of BMW G01 X3 2.0i ordered December 2017 and scheduled for delivery in March 2018 held up. Buyer advised car had arrived in the UK in February, but told that BMW had identified a problem and would be carrying out a "quality enhancement" before releasing the car. Dealership has provided a courtesy car. BMW admitted it was an emissions problem with the petrol engine and they were still awaiting new parts from Germany. They still could not tell buyer what the fix would be or when the car would be delivered. Might be a NOx emissions problem uncovered by the KBA. Might be a failed attempt to pre-qualify the engine for EU66d TEMP / WLTP.

20-05-2019:

Report of turbo lag from WLTP compliant October 2018 BMW G01 X3 3.0D.

17-08-2022:

Report of problems with 2018 X3. BMW dealer offered owner a complementary software update, promising they wouldn't notice any difference but it was advisable for the health of the car. Since then the digital speedo has vanished and the car has a number of software issues with the infotainment system. The dealer says it is unable to correct any of problems. 

What does the BMW X3 cost?

Buy new from £43,837(list price from £48,385)