The BMW X3 comes in three models: xDrive30i; M40i; and X3 M. The xDrive30i has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, making 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Peak torque is achieved at just 1,450 rpm, so this engine is very responsive. The M40i model displays its performance with a 382-horsepower 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder with 365 lb-ft of torque. The M40i engine can move the X3 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and top speed of 155 mph. All engines utilize "Valvetronic" variable valve timing and high-precision direct fuel injection. The X3 M gets a forged B58 inline 6-cylinder engine force-fed boost from twin turbochargers producing 473 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque at only 2600 RPM. Clocking in at 4.1 seconds or 4.0 seconds flat. The X3 M can also be upgraded to the competition package for even more power, over 503 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. Styling one would expect to see on an M vehicle such as larger air intakes, double-barred kidney grilles, unique wheels, updated bumper styling along with aerodynamically proficient wing mirrors, unique brake calipers, and loads of other options including carbon fiber add-ons all come along with the X3 M vehicles as well.
The X3 is also offered as a plug-in hybrid, it offers electric-only driving combined with a gasoline-fueled engine for reassurance and optimal fuel efficiency.
With any engine, the X3 is paired with a responsive and quick-shifting 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, which includes an Eco Pro mode that helps improve fuel economy by optimizing heating and air conditioning use, softening accelerator response and tweaking shift points. All models also have Auto Start/Stop, which shuts off the engine when idling at stoplights, and Brake Energy Regeneration, which saves fuel by optimizing alternator use. Fuel economy ratings are 24 mpg city, 29 highway with the xDrive30i, or 21 mpg city, 27 highway with the M40i. Each model of the X3 offers the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which works together with the dynamic stability control electronics to intelligently send power to the wheels for confident traction and handling in all road conditions.
The xDrive30i as a luxury crossover SUV comes with a host of desirable standard features. Exterior features include run-flat tires on 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and fog lights, power liftgate, power-folding heated side mirrors and the iconic BMW "kidney" grille with active grille shutters. Inside the X3 owners will be impressed with the BMW iDrive 6.0 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, 12-speaker sound system, synthetic leather power front seats with seat memory, reclining rear seats, multi-zone climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, keyless ignition and ample cargo space. Standard safety equipment for the X3 includes Frontal Collision Warning, Active Guard with pedestrian detection, Park Distance Control and driver attention alert.
Stepping up in performance, the BMW X3 M40i features numerous "M" performance options that are well known to BMW enthusiasts. The M40i performance is beyond the 382-horsepower engine, and includes M Sport brakes with blue calipers, M Sport exhaust, firmer M Sport suspension and performance tires on larger 19-inch wheels. Additional features include faux-leather wrapped dashboard, M Sport steering wheel, SiriusXM satellite radio and more aggressive exterior styling that all come standard for the X3 M.
The options list is long and includes both stand-alone options and grouped packages that BMW labels as "tiers". The Convenience tier adds adaptive LED headlights, 4-way lumbar support, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof. The Premium tier adds to this with a head-up display, heated front seats and steering wheel and navigation. The Executive tier brings in the aforementioned options and adds an all-digital instrument cluster, parking assistance, surround view and BMW Gesture Control, which allows drivers to control certain features with only a hand motion. There is also a Driving Assistance Plus package that provides a suite of driver assistance options such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, lane keeping assist, and collision warning.
Both X3 models come with a host of standard safety features including antilock brakes, a comprehensive set of airbags, stability control, brake assist, pre-collision detection and an intelligent emergency call system. Additional optional safety packages are available providing active assist technology such as lane departure warning and cross-traffic alert.
Stand-out Style
Powerful Engine Performance
Sporty On-road Handling
Comfortable Interior, Well-appointed Cabin
Extensive Technology Features
Broad Range Of Standard Safety Features
For 2021, the BMW X3 adds more standard features including Android Auto smartphone connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio and a larger infotainment screen. Active Driving Assistant package now comes standard and includes lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The plug-in hybrid xDrive30e and the M40i models both receive standard a digital gauge display.
The BMW X3 is one of the quickest and most nimble-handling of the compact luxury-brand crossovers; yet it's also one of the most fuel-efficient with the 4-cylinder xDrive30i. The sporty styling of the exterior and luxurious interior appointments make the X3 look and feel like a true luxury crossover as it is intended to be. Both the 4-cylinder xDrive30i and the 6-cylinder M40i have impressive power even next to their big brother 473 hp X3 M that swallows rival competitors whole such as the Mercedes GLC 300, Audi Q5 or Lexus RX350, while offering excellent available options, competitive pricing and cargo space will put it above for many prospective buyers.
