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Pros: Cabin tech, refinement, engine range.
Cons: Inside doesn’t feel as posh as it should.
BMW X3 Design
The X3 has filled the gap for a mid-size luxury SUV in the BMW range since 2003. Now in its fourth generation, the new X3 is longer, wider and lower than the car it replaces. Just like the latest X1, it has a cleaner, sleeker shape for better aerodynamics, including flush door handles for the very first time. At the front there’s a mesmerising new kidney grille that features both vertical and diagonal bars and is available to option with a strip of LED lighting around its edges, the so-called “BMW Iconic Glow”. The LED headlights also get a new double light signature. The sporty styling is rounded off at the back by a roof spoiler and black diffuser effect in the bumper on M Sport models. There are new taillights, and the registration plate has been moved down so it looks pleasingly different to its predecessor. Wheel sizes vary from 18- up to 21-inch. New colours include Dune Grey, Arctic Race Blue and Fire Red.
BMW X3 Interior
The X3’s glow up continues inside with a massive digital upgrade just like other models in the BMW range. It’s now the X3’s turn to get the brand’s impressive curved display and latest BMW operating system. The traditional iDrive controller remains on the centre console. There’s also voice control to help access functions quickly. Climate settings are now adjusted through the touchscreen but they are always present at the bottom of the screen. The BMW interaction bar also lands in the X3 for the first time and adds a little bit of bling. There are newly designed seats available in different upholsteries including real or synthetic leather. Different textures and trims are available with a focus on sustainable materials. The knitted fabric in our test car covered great swathes of the dashboard but is quite dull and really does not look upmarket enough for an SUV at this price point.
Otherwise, it’s spacious and comfortable inside. There are two deep footwells in the back and loads of headroom so children or adults will be comfortable on long journeys. Tri-zone climate control is also included across the range. The rear seats can split fold 40:20:40. There’s been a small increase in boot space too. Petrol and diesel models come with a generous 570 litre boot but the plug-in hybrid has considerably less at 460 litres. A powered tailgate comes as standard.
BMW X3 Performance & Drive
Lighter and more rigid than before, the X3’s chassis has been tweaked for more agility, cornering stability and long-distance comfort. Other changes include a wider rear track. It’s a sweet handling SUV among rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, with good body control for confidence through corners and precise steering. Optional adaptive suspension sharpens agility while increasing ride comfort but the standard M Sport suspension on our test car was still very good at keeping things serene in the cabin. Acoustic glazing ensures high levels of refinement too.
The new X3 is offered with petrol, diesel or a plug-in hybrid, the latter which now has a better EV only range up to 90 kilometres. All models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive intelligent all wheel drive. We’re yet to test the new plug-in hybrid but we did spend time behind the wheel of the 20 xDrive that’s powered by the four cylinder 2.0-litre petrol with 208hp and mild hybrid assistance to boost efficiency. It’s incredibly smooth and quiet to drive, though buyers looking for scintillating performance will still be directed towards the top of the range six cylinder M50. If you press the accelerator quickly, there’s a bit of lag but more instantaneous power can be delivered by a quick pull of the boost paddle behind the steering wheel on M Sport models. There’s also a 2.0-litre diesel that will offer greater fuel economy. But the refined character of the petrol is a good match for the X3.
BMW X3 Pricing
The new X3 range kicks off at €69,410 for the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, from €72,190 for the 20 xDrive petrol and from €74,540 for the 20d xDrive diesel. The top of the range M50 xDrive with 398hp and numerous M upgrades is available from €103,400.
Carzone Verdict
The X3 is a solid choice with its smart styling and spacious interior. The cabin gets a timely upgrade with the best of the brand's new digital tech on board, but some of the new fabrics let it down and it just doesn't feel as expensive inside as its price tag might suggest. Still, there's so much to like about the X3 and for keen drivers it's one of the most rewarding of its kind to drive backed up by a good engine range.