This year marks the 20th anniversary of the BMW X3, and it’s been quite the journey. It was intended to combine a practical small SUV form with the sporty mentality of the 3 Series, which is still true of the automaker’s first compact crossover. The X3 ultimately overtook the midsize X5 as the automaker’s best-selling model thanks to this format’s enormous popularity, which it achieved in 2022. BMW’s reputation for performance is a key selling feature, but the X3 also excels in other areas, getting excellent gas efficiency, having lots of storage space, and having a plush interior.
The third-generation X3 receives no significant updates for 2023 after a brief refresh last year that included improved graphics, new displays, and a mild hybrid system on the M40i variant. There are still three gradations of the X3, including the 248 horsepower, four-cylinder 30i models and two straight-six variants, the 382-horsepower M40i, and the obscenely powerful X3 M and M Competition. Except for the X3 M, all of them are entertaining to drive and relatively fuel-efficient. Unfortunately, the previous plug-in hybrid xDrive30e is no longer available.
The popularity of the X3 has grown with the popularity of crossovers, and today’s market is more competitive than ever, with the Bimmer competing against a variety of fresher ideas. Nevertheless, the X3 ranks among the best in its class, with the Genesis GV70, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, and Lexus NX. Due to its emphasis on performance, it also faces competition in this market from sportier vehicles like the Porsche Macan and Alfa Romeo Stelvio. BMW has the X4, a fastback variant of the X3, for people who also wish to seem sportier.
Performance is still the X3’s strong suit, but not as intense as the Macan or the Stelvio Quadrifoglio. It is an SUV and provides the customary lofty vantage point of the road, but it is an athlete at its core. The M40i, the most popular trim and an excellent option for passionate families, strikes the ideal balance between performance and practicality. This year, the revamped X1, which is somewhat smaller but has more comparable interior and modern digital technologies, competes with the X3. If you’re looking for a four-cylinder X3, it’s essential to compare.
The X3 is practical and offers more luggage capacity than its minor sister and more room in the back seat and trunk than an Alfa or a Porsche. In the classic BMW style, the interior is rational and understated in appearance. Although the surroundings aren’t as opulent as those at Genesis or Mercedes, everything is constructed with high-quality materials, and the controls are simple. Compared to other premium SUVs, the seats are stiff but supportive and pleasant on long travels. The cabin has a lot of room for storing small items.
Even if the 2023 X3 continues to employ the previous version of BMW’s iDrive software, there is still a ton of technology. Sadly, the automaker’s extensive selection of choices makes several features that come standard elsewhere (like Genesis) extra expensive. That includes wireless charging and the X3 driver-assistance package (an additional $1,700). The X3 is relatively less distinctive than the GV70 or XC60 while devoid of the most contentious aspects of the contemporary BMW style. Nevertheless, the X3 is a luxurious, comfortable, and entertaining vehicle. This recipe works well.
Performance: BMW X3
Your X3 may be ordered in four ways, all turbocharged and equipped with eight-speed automatic gearboxes. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the 30i variants, the rear-drive drive, and all-wheel drive (AWD) xDrive produces 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Even though it is the basic model, it has lots of fun on a canyon road and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 6 seconds.
The X3’s large hood and elevated driving position give the impression that driving would be quite SUV-like, yet this BMW handles more like a 3 Series than a G-Wagen. It takes confidence and has intuitive steering and quick, fade-free brakes. The X3 is not an off-road vehicle, and while having just average gravel and dirt capabilities, it will never be a trail fighter.
The 3.0-liter mild-hybrid inline-six engine from BMW’s “B58” series produces 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque in the X3 M40i, dramatically increasing power and loudness. Although not a complete hybrid, the technology increases strength and improves delivery.
With an exclusive M Sport exhaust, the M40i’s engine sounds thrilling and can accelerate the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. The 30i and M40i models are performance SUVs but are also quite comfortable inside and have a relatively smooth ride. In contrast to the noisier X3 M, the M40i does not necessitate concessions while conducting everyday errands despite a noticeable noise increase.
The 3.0-liter S58B30 inline-six, which also powers the M3 and M4, has 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the $7,000 Competition package ups the ante to 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. With smooth power, incredible grip, burbling exhausts, and sub-4-second zero-to-60 performances, both variants are a blast to drive. On the other hand, they ride harsher than the 30i and M40i versions, have significantly harder, aggressively bolstered seats, and are louder.
Fuel efficiency: BMW X3
The X3 series, except the M, is remarkably fuel-efficient for a self-awarely sporty SUV. The EPA rates the AWD xDrive 30i at 24 mpg combined (21 cities, 28 highways), compared to the rear-drive sDrive 30i’s 25 mpg combined (23 cities, 29 routes). While the 30i models can’t compete with PHEVs like the Lincoln Corsair or conventional hybrids like the Lexus NX, they are on par with or better than most non-hybrid four-cylinder competitors.
In our real-world testing, the six-cylinder M40i outperformed its combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg (21 cities, 26 highways), delivering slightly over 24 mpg over a week of combined driving. Most of the X3’s six-cylinder rivals are typically 2 to 3 mpg less efficient in the city, highway, and mixed driving, and several struggle to match their stated estimations.
The X3 M consumes gasoline at a rate of 17 mpg combined (15 cities, 20 highways), which is to be expected. That’s worse than the Macan or the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s official estimations. Still, in actual testing, we discovered that the Jaguar F-Pace SVR with the Alfa and V8 engine was far less efficient. All X3s exclusively consume premium drinks.
Safety and driver support technology: BMW X3
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards the 2023 BMW X3 several “Good” scores in its testing. In late 2022, 2022 was elevated to the agency’s “Top Safety Pick+” classification despite receiving a “Marginal” rating for its latch system. The automobile lost its type due to stricter testing in 2023. It has a perfect score of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Regarding active safety, BMW gives the X3 lane departure warnings, frontal collision warnings, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian recognition. Although there is a sizable collection of equipment, everything else is an additional expense.
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane maintenance assistance with side collision avoidance, and traffic jam assistance for restricted access roads are all included in the $1,700 Driving Assistant Professional package. These functions are standard on Genesis and Lexus models. A $700 parking assistance package includes proximity sensors and surround-view monitoring. A little bit more of this equipment would be excellent.
Comfort and Space
The X3 is a comfortable vehicle for four people, but when carrying five people, it becomes congested, and some competitors offer more excellent internal space, especially in the rear. There are 40.3 inches of front legroom, less than some competitors but plenty for even tall persons with long legs to feel at ease. On extended rides, the front seats’ firmness and well-bolstered ness keep you from fatigue.
Rear legroom measures 36.4 inches, much greater than the Alfa Stelvio, Porsche Macan, and even the Jaguar F-Pace (although Porsche does not count). However, it’s also much less than at Genesis and the brand-new Mercedes-Benz GLC. Tall people may feel squished there, but anybody under six feet can fit back well.
Large doors and lots of mounting space make putting child seats into the X3 simple for families with motoring enthusiasts.
Infotainment: BMW X3
Base X3 models have a standard 10-inch infotainment screen, while the M40i and X3 M come standard with more giant 12.3-inch screens for the center screen (like those seen in the midsize X5) and the driver’s display. Both displays include the well-known iDrive7 interface from BMW and may be operated using the touch screen, the steering-wheel controls, or the circular controller dial on the console. This year, the outdated gesture controls, which were somewhat of a ridiculous gimmick, are eliminated. The X1 is notable for using BMW’s most current iDrive eight systems. It will be on the X3 in 2024.
iDrive has a steep learning curve for new users but is quite user-friendly once you get the hang of it. Additionally, there are several choices to go through simply to change something as basic as the bass or treble. Thankfully, the HVAC and other physical controls are still there, and both (wireless) Apple CarPlay and (wired) Android Auto come as standard. Some excellent add-ons, like a head-up display and a wireless charging pad, are available along the river USB ports and Wi-Fi hotspots.
Storage & Cargo Space:
The X3’s load compartment measurements are the best among small luxury crossovers, with 28.7 cubic feet of capacity behind the back seats and 62.7 with the seats folded. The Volvo XC60 has 63.3 overall but just 17.1 behind-the-back seats. With 31.5 and 69.1 overall, the almost midsize Jaguar F-Pace leads this category, while Cadillac’s XT5 provides 30 and 63. With the seats in place, the GV70 has nearly the same space but less overall, while Mercedes provides less in both dimensions.
There are a few under-floor storage spaces in the cargo area and a motorized tailgate with a hands-free opening feature. The cabin has a lot of cubbies and nooks for passengers to use.
Design: BMW X3
The 4 Series or iX are excellent examples of BMW’s willingness to experiment with style, while the X3 is a very traditional-looking vehicle. Although it is a BMW, it isn’t especially controversial or unique. (From a distance, the X1, X3, and X5 are challenging to distinguish.) While not as coolly attractive or aesthetically splashy as the GLC, GV70, or XC60, the visually active X3 isn’t ugly either. It also mostly comes in dark hues, covering most of the details.
The cabin’s minimalist design makes up for any outside blurriness. The X3 proudly carries on BMW’s legacy of practical luxury, and although it may seem sparse in photos, the materials and craftsmanship are of the highest caliber.
Is the BMW X3 from 2023 worth it?
The sDrive 30i is the least costly way to purchase an X3 at $47,195 (a $2,500 increase from last year, including a $995 delivery charge), leaving money for optional upgrades, the most significant of which is the $1,700 Driver Assistance package. The new X1 provides slightly less capacity and a similar appearance and performance beginning at under $40,095, making it the most excellent bargain if you don’t require an all-wheel drive. Please take a look at it when you’re in the showroom.
With a starting price of $61,995, the M40i represents a significant price increase, but its more robust six-cylinder engine truly sets it apart from the lower-end variants and the competitors. It performs better than the Genesis and has no counterpart at Alfa Romeo. Many features that are optional extras on the 30i versions are also included in the M40i. You also get the 12.3-inch displays, meaner-looking graphics, M Sport brakes, and adaptive suspension.
If you want to customize the precise build you desire, BMW makes a lot of choices accessible à la carte, which is excellent but may also significantly raise the price. There are Premium packages available that include the head-up display and other gadgets, as well as unique paint options and a Shadowline blackout trim kit, but we’d steer clear of that one.
The X3 M is a lot of fun and has better materials, such as BMW’s lovely Merino leather, but it also costs $75,395 out of the gate and may cost much more with extras. The corresponding models from Alfa, Porsche, and Jaguar, which start at more than $84,000 and have a wide range of options, are far more expensive than this.
How Much Does the 2023 BMW X3 Cost to Insure?
Insurance for the X3 is somewhat more expensive than those of its competitors. The X3 M40i’s average yearly premium for a 30-year-old female driver with a clean driving record is $2,613. It would cost $2,362 for a comparable Genesis GV70 Sports Prestige, $2,655 for an Audi Q5, $2,178 for a Volvo XC60, and $2,838 for an Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Verdict
The 2023 BMW X3 received little modifications after a minor update last year, but it continues to deliver the same well-liked combination of performance, utility, and elegance. The classic performance credentials of BMW are at the core of this experience, with adept handling and a trio of thrilling engines, from the warm 30i models to the hot M40i and searing X3 M. While BMW charges extra for specific equipment that is becoming more and more commonplace elsewhere, these characteristics, together with the vehicle’s excellent load capacity and fuel economy, help it remain competitive in the upscale crossover segment.
