Indeed, the BMW X3 is a top-notch SUV. It gives a typically pleasant ride, has a variety of powerful powertrains, and gets good gas mileage. Few other luxury small SUVs are as entertaining to drive as the BMW X3, which offers excellent handling.
In This Article...
SERPRESULT
The venerable little luxury SUV is still quite sporty and enjoyable to drive, and as a two-row, five-seater vehicle, it provides adequate storage and fuel efficiency.
The BMW X3 encapsulates the brand’s signature luxury and thrilling driving experience in a useful compact SUV.
Review, About Sale, Colors, Interior, Specs, and News for the BMW X3
The BMW X3 medium SUV has advanced to become one of the cornerstones of the German brand despite a less than stellar debut in 2004, notably in SUV-crazy Australia.
Following the X5, the X3 was BMW’s second SUV, and the X3’s popularity inspired the formerly cautious car-only BMW to introduce a line of X-branded SUVs.
Due mostly to a constrained model lineup and the fact that the second-generation (F25) lingered too long on the market, the five-door, five-seater experienced a period of underperformance in the sales battle against competitors like Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
Since the release of the 2018 X3 (G01), the still-described as “mid-size” SUV has dwarfed the X5 of the original generation. It now also rides on BMW’s ‘CLAR’ worldwide platform, which also serves as the foundation for vehicles like the BMW 8-Series and the A90 Toyota Supra.
Is the BMW X3 a small SUV?
BMW X3 Review for 2023 The venerable little luxury SUV seats five passengers comfortably in two rows and has adequate storage and fuel efficiency. It is also plenty sporty and enjoyable to drive. Between the smaller X1 and the bigger X5, which has optional third-row seating, is the X3.
Is the BMW X3 an SUV or a wagon?
A: The BMW X3 falls within the category of a luxury compact SUV. The Porsche Macan, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, Acura RDX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC are a few further examples of automobiles in the same class as the BMW X3.
Is the BMW X3 an SUV or a crossover?
Based on the BMW 3 Series chassis, the BMW X3 is a small, luxury crossover SUV that has been produced by the German carmaker BMW since 2003. The crossover, now in its third generation, is marketed by BMW as a sports activity vehicle, the term used exclusively by the firm to describe its X-line of vehicles.
The first-generation X3 was created by BMW and Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria, who also produced every X3 under BMW’s direction. The second-generation BMW X3 was produced at BMW’s Spartanburg facility in South Carolina, USA. BMW South Africa’s Rosslyn plant, where the third-generation BMW X3 is made, underwent significant renovations in order to make room for the X3, which will eventually replace the firm’s long-running 3 Series production. A total of 76,000 units will be produced there each year.
It was regarded as the market’s first mid-size, high-end SUV. The X3 has only recently begun to compete with the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, which has been renamed GLC-Class as of 2016. It currently occupies the space between the bigger X5 and X6 and the smaller X1 and X2.
Is a medium SUV a BMW X3?
A five-seater compact luxury SUV is the BMW X3. A basic 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid with 288 horsepower, a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged with 382 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged with 473 horsepower are all available engines. The Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, Volvo XC60, and all X3 models have an eight-speed automatic transmission.
A BMW X3 is it a 4×4?
An illustration of a Personal Contract Purchase: Cash price PS10,000, deposit PS150, and borrowing PS8,500 for 4 years at a representative 7.4% APR (fixed). A total of PS4127.50 will be paid after 47 instalments of PS132.04. PS1833.38 is the total cost of credit. Payable in total is PS11,833.38. 8,000 miles per year as a base. If excess miles is used, there are fees. Finance subject to status; only those 18+.
Driving:
The xDrive four-wheel drive technology of the X3 is crucial to giving it a dynamic, alert sensation while driving. To distribute power to the wheel that requires it most, this features a centrally located, electronically controlled clutch. The DSC stability control sensors are used by xDrive to guarantee the best traction on and off-road. Although it operates quietly, you can feel its advantages as the BMW makes sharp turns. The X3 is also genuinely enjoyable to drive thanks to outstanding steering feel and excellent body control. The more potent engines in the SUV help to take advantage of this, especially the fantastic 3.0sd, which uses the twin-turbo diesel engine from the 535d. With a smooth six-speed automatic gearbox and 580Nm of torque, performance and refinement are exceptional. In contrast, despite being a smooth performer, the standard 2.0d occasionally has trouble with the X3’s weight. Additionally, the X3 rides solidly, which is the antithesis of such engaging handling.
Marketplace:
The 2006 revision of the X3 makes it easier for it to coexist in the lineup with the second-generation X5. Prior until now, they were too closely matched, but thanks to the expansion of Land Rover’s Freelander 2, the X3 now sits more harmoniously beside competitors. It received a redesign in 2006, which was distinguished by a bigger radiator grille, new bumpers, relocated foglights, and fashionable LED-style rear light clusters. It looks smoother due to the increased usage of body-color plastics, but it is still upright and looks a little awkward from some perspectives. Along with the Freelander, competitors include the Lexus RX, the Toyota RAV4, and the Honda CR-V.
Owning:
Short overhangs increase back legroom while also giving a dynamic appearance. The X3 offers occupants a genuine sense of roominess. The 480-liter boot, which is larger than the original X5’s, is likewise spacious. There are several seat and steering wheel adjustments up front, allowing for a perfect driving position and superior sight. However, the cabin itself lacks the air of occasion you would expect from a car costing more than PS30,000. While the soft-touch, dimple-effect dash plastics are of high quality, the central transmission tunnel and the flip-out cupholders are made of harder materials. Overall, despite some trims having a quality increase in 2006, it doesn’t have the luxurious feel of its competitors. It is still expertly put together, and the X3 exhibits all of BMW’s immaculately high standards for assembly. But you pay for it, as seen by the X3’s high list costs, which give it the stature of a premium SUV. Although options are expensive, retained values are good and diesels are commended for their efficiency.
A BMW X3 has four wheels, right?
Although the inside styling of the most recent BMW 3 Series saloon is not very daring, it is extremely welcome nonetheless. The dashboard is streamlined, fashionable, thoughtfully laid out, and exquisitely constructed from premium materials. It really outsells the Volvo XC60 in terms of upscale appeal.
Not only range-topping examples, but all examples look and feel the part on the interior. Every model offers soft-touch interior surfaces and imitation leather upholstery, with accents made of gloss black or aluminum to add aesthetic appeal. xLine and M Sport versions all come standard with an iDrive infotainment system that includes a reversing camera and BMW Live Cockpit Plus digital gauges. LED headlights and 19-inch alloy wheels are also included.
The 2.0-liter gasoline 20i kicks off the lineup, while the 3.0-liter 30d and 20d cater to diesel preferences, with the latter having 282 horsepower. There are two M Performance models: the M40i, which has a 3.0 liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 355 bhp, and the M40d, which has 335 bhp. With a time of under five seconds to 62 mph, it directly competes with the similarly quick and similarly expensive Audi SQ5. Due to its low emissions and the fact that it costs about the same as the xDrive30d diesel, the plug-in hybrid X3 xDrive30e is attractive to both corporate car drivers and private purchasers. We have separately tested the all-electric iX3 version.
The X3 shares the same mechanical platform as the BMW 5 Series, and all models come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Every X3 features xDrive four-wheel drive, which, unlike the X1, gives it fairly excellent off-road capabilities. Although it’s hardly a vehicle you’d take on a safari, it can readily handle a muddy field or a slippery boat slipway.
However, how it feels back on it is superior to how it performs off-road. Despite being a very large vehicle, the X3 has remarkable body lean resistance and solid handling, which puts it on par with BMW saloons in terms of agility. Even if it doesn’t feel nearly as rewarding as the Jaguar F-Pace for pure pleasure, it can still be delightful to drive on difficult roads because of how smooth it is at its softest suspension setting.
The major issue is that by raising the starting price of the X3 in comparison to older models, BMW has effectively shifted the vehicle upmarket. More features partially justify this, but it also means the range doesn’t overlap as much with the X1 and X2 (along with SUVs from non-premium manufacturers), making X3 ownership a little more expensive for some.
Nobody who can afford a BMW X3 will be dissatisfied. It’s a fantastic SUV to drive and travel in, has a high safety rating, and is convenient for families. However, according to our Driver Power poll, BMW now has among of the lowest owner satisfaction ratings among German manufactures. Overall, though, if you’re a skilled driver, this is one of the greatest large SUVs you can buy.
Are BMW X3 vehicles dependable?
With a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5, the BMW X3 is ranked 10th among luxury small SUVs. Poor ownership expenses are indicated by the $1,034 average yearly repair cost. You might make a few more trips to your BMW shop than usual because X3 repairs are more common.
Why is the BMW X3 so well-liked?
It gives a typically pleasant ride, has a variety of powerful powertrains, and gets good gas mileage. Few other luxury small SUVs are as entertaining to drive as the BMW X3, which offers excellent handling. The X3 features a nice interior and plenty of space for both passengers and baggage. It also includes user-friendly technological elements.
What issues does the BMW X3 have?
You have a problem in your cooling system if your X3 routinely overheats or if coolant seeps onto the floor of your garage. The most frequent offenders on the X3 are the radiator and coolant expansion tank. A defective thermostat or housing may possibly be the source of this problem.
A faulty radiator will set you back in the high triple digits, while an expansion tank repair would cost you about $500.
Stop your automobile if it’s overheating and get it towed! Driving an overheated engine might cause internal warping and necessitate the purchase of an entirely new engine.
How fuel-efficient is the BMW X3?
The driving range of the BMW X3 varies depending on the trim level drivers select. The RWD sDrive30i, which can achieve up to 29 miles per gallon, is the BMW X3 model with the highest fuel efficiency. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that it performs best given that All-Wheel Drive consumes more gas.
Can the BMW X3 handle snow?
The X3’s xDrive AWD and 8-inch ground clearance make it a very capable snow-driving vehicle. In addition to ABS, Traction Control, and Stability Control, X3 models now include Active Guard driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies, all of which contribute to a safe winter driving experience.
How durable is the BMW X3?
The BMW X3 can travel between 150,000 and 200,000 miles on average with routine maintenance, good care, and cautious driving techniques. With an annual mileage of 15,000 miles, it will last for 10 to 14 years before needing significant repairs or breaking down.
The BMW X3 is relatively quiet.
The BMW X3 is relatively quiet. Consumer Reports claims that drivers of the 2021 BMW X3 won’t be bothered by road noise when cruising. Insignificant engine noise was noticed by test subjects at higher rpm. The model with a 248-hp turbo-four and an eight-speed automatic transmission that CR tested is the xDrive30i.