2025 BMW X3 | WHAT WE KNOW Up to this point

Summary

The BMW X3 is a versatile small luxury SUV that strikes a balance between liveliness, comfort, and utility. Offering seating for five, it shares the interior design and tech features of the 3 Series sedan but with more cargo space. Available with a 248 hp 4-cylinder or 382 hp 6-cylinder engine, the X3 provides ample acceleration while still returning good fuel economy of 24 mpg. It competes with the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and Acura RDX on price, features and overall appeal, though its interior lacks some of the aesthetic allure of rivals. Still, with composed handling and generous cargo room, the 2024 X3 makes for an enjoyable daily driver.

Takeaways

• 😊 The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV positioned between the X1 and X5 models
• 🚗 It seats 5 people and aims to balance liveliness, comfort and utility
• 💪 It was updated in 2022 and continues largely unchanged into 2024
• 🏎 Two engine options: a 248 hp 4-cylinder or a more powerful 382 hp 6-cylinder
• ⚡ The X3 competes with the Mercedes GLC, Audi Q5, Genesis GV70 and Acura RDX
• 😀 In long term testing, the X3 provided a good ride, roomy interior and great visibility
• 👍 It has generous cargo space and ample interior storage for a compact SUV
• 🔧 Trim levels differ by powertrain - 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine options
• 💰 Pricing and features compare directly with the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC
• 🚘 Strong acceleration, steering and engine sound make it fun to drive for an SUV

Q & A

What size engine options are available for the BMW X3?

There are two engine options: a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 248 hp or a 3.0L turbocharged inline 6-cylinder with 382 hp.

What kind of fuel economy does the BMW X3 get?

In EPA testing, the X3 xDrive30i gets 24 mpg combined. In our real-world testing, it exceeded that estimate.

How quick is the BMW X3 from 0-60 mph?

In our testing, the xDrive30i hit 60 mph in the high 6-second range, which is good for a 4000+ lb SUV.

How does the BMW X3 handle turns and cornering?

The X3 provides composed and graceful handling through turns that is often associated with BMWs. The steering could use more feedback though.

What driver-assist and safety features are offered on the X3?

Available options include blind spot monitoring to aid lane changes and parking sensors and rear cross traffic alert.

How comfortable are the front seats in the X3?

The front seats provide good comfort and support for long drives. There are many adjustments to customize the fit for nearly any body type.

How quiet is the interior of the X3 at highway speeds?

The cabin is very quiet at highway speeds. You may need to check the tachometer to see if the engine is running.

What is the cargo capacity behind the rear seats?

There is a spacious 28.7 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row seats.

Can the BMW X3 tow trailers?

Yes, with the optional trailer hitch the X3 can tow up to 4,400 pounds.

How does the X3 compare to rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC?

The X3's pricing, features, and options lineup very closely against those competitors.