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 355-horsepower 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder with 369 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain can move the X3 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph. All engines utilize "Valvetronic" variable valve timing and high-precision direct fuel injection.
The high-performance-tuned X3 M gets a forged inline 6-cylinder engine force-fed boost from twin turbochargers that produce 473 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque at only 2600 RPM. This powertrain gets the 0-60 time down to 4 seconds. Styling is as expected for an M vehicle, with 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.
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 22 mpg city, 29 highway with the xDrive30i, or 20 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, X3 owners will be impressed by the BMW iDrive 6.0 infotainment system, synthetic leather power front seats with seat memory, reclining rear seats, multi-zone climate control, rear view camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, keyless ignition and ample cargo space. The 2019 X3 sees updated interior trim to add to the luxurious feel.
Stepping up in performance, the BMW X3 M40i features numerous "M" performance options that are well known to BMW enthusiasts and include M Sport brakes with blue calipers, M Sport exhaust, firmer M Sport suspension and 19-inch wheels wearing performance rubber. Additional features include front and rear parking aids, faux-leather wrapped dashboard 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.
All 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 to provide 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
The 2020 BMW X3, having just been refreshed just a few years ago, returns for 2020 with no major changes. A new X3 M trim arrives this year. Fitted with standard xDrive and a new B58 twin-turbocharged 3.0L straight 6-cylinder engine that propels the X3 M to 60 mph in as little as 4.0 seconds. Loads of new options and M specific styling come along with the brand-new iteration with pricing starting at just above the $70,000-dollar range.
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.
