BMW X3

The X3 is BMW’s midsized luxury SUV. Launched in 2018, the third-gen model offers more by way of comfort but retains the sporty appeal that has distinguished the X3 over the years. The BMW X3 is available in petrol-auto and diesel-auto versions, both of which get all-wheel drive as standard.

The X3 is BMW’s midsized luxury SUV. Launched in 2018, the third-gen model offers more by way of comfort but retains ...

The X3 is BMW’s midsized luxury SUV. Launched in 2018, the third-gen model offers more by way of comfort but retains the sporty appeal that has distinguished the X3 over the years. The BMW X3 is available in petrol-auto and diesel-auto versions, both of which get all-wheel drive as standard.

The third-gen BMW X3 looks like a slightly smaller X5, which is not a bad thing at all. There is a link to other BMWs on the inside too and cabin quality is up there with the 5 Series. The X3’s cabin is fairly roomy and space at the back is good too, but the rear seat could have been more supportive.
The 190hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine is the mainstay of the X3 range. The engine is relatively free-revving and offers strong mid-range punch. On the flip side, low-speed responses aren’t the liveliest and the engine also gets noisy if you extend it. The 252hp, 2.0-litre petrol is a strong performer. The X3 can feel a bit lumpy on broken roads but ride quality, on the whole, is good. Even better is the handling. The good steering and nice balance make this an SUV you can really drive with verve.

The third-gen BMW X3 looks like a slightly smaller X5, which is not a bad thing at all. There is a link to other BMWs...

The third-gen BMW X3 looks like a slightly smaller X5, which is not a bad thing at all. There is a link to other BMWs on the inside too and cabin quality is up there with the 5 Series. The X3’s cabin is fairly roomy and space at the back is good too, but the rear seat could have been more supportive.
The 190hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine is the mainstay of the X3 range. The engine is relatively free-revving and offers strong mid-range punch. On the flip side, low-speed responses aren’t the liveliest and the engine also gets noisy if you extend it. The 252hp, 2.0-litre petrol is a strong performer. The X3 can feel a bit lumpy on broken roads but ride quality, on the whole, is good. Even better is the handling. The good steering and nice balance make this an SUV you can really drive with verve.

As good as the X3 30i petrol is, it the X3 20d diesel the majority of buyers will gravitate to. All versions of the X3 get LED headlights and a panoramic sunroof. Of the diesels, we’d opt for the mid-spec xLine that brings with it rear-seat backrest recline, paddleshifters and Apple CarPlay. If you aren’t limited by budget, it’s the top-spec X3 Luxury Line for you. Aside from a superior infotainment system with a larger 10.25-inch screen, the Luxury Line also gets damper control and wireless phone charging.

As good as the X3 30i petrol is, it the X3 20d diesel the majority of buyers will gravitate to. All versions of the X...

As good as the X3 30i petrol is, it the X3 20d diesel the majority of buyers will gravitate to. All versions of the X3 get LED headlights and a panoramic sunroof. Of the diesels, we’d opt for the mid-spec xLine that brings with it rear-seat backrest recline, paddleshifters and Apple CarPlay. If you aren’t limited by budget, it’s the top-spec X3 Luxury Line for you. Aside from a superior infotainment system with a larger 10.25-inch screen, the Luxury Line also gets damper control and wireless phone charging.