The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2025 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
The fourth-generation X3 took an evolutionary step forward for 2025, gaining power, fuel economy, and equipment.
It remains one of the best compact luxury SUVs, thanks to its spirited and fuel-efficient powertrain, nimble handling, and comfortable seats.
Unfortunately, many controls are unintuitive.
The X3 30 xDrive's 255-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder feels crisp and energetic, and the eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly.
It got 29 mpg overall in our tests, which also contributes to a long cruising range.
The sporty M50 version features a 393-hp, turbo inline-six.
Handling is taut and agile, the ride is composed and absorbent, and the cabin stays hushed.
The front seats are very comfortable, and the rear seat is roomy.
The climate controls require interacting with the screen which tends to be distracting.
The touch-capacitive control panel on the driver's door--for locking/unlocking, seat memory, and air vent openings--is odd and annoying.
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
Road Test Score
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
Base MSRP Range
$50,900 - $65,900
Destination Charge: $1350
Destination Charge
This charge covers the cost of transporting a vehicle from a carmaker’s U.S. factory or port of entry to its dealerships. Destination charges are typically not negotiable. Occasionally some select model trims will have a slightly higher fee than others.
Destination Charge
This charge covers the cost of transporting a vehicle from a carmaker’s U.S. factory or port of entry to its dealerships. Destination charges are typically not negotiable. Occasionally some select model trims will have a slightly higher fee than others.
This charge covers the cost of transporting a vehicle from a carmaker’s U.S. factory or port of entry to its dealerships. Destination charges are typically not negotiable. Occasionally some select model trims will have a slightly higher fee than others.
Destination Charge
This charge covers the cost of transporting a vehicle from a carmaker’s U.S. factory or port of entry to its dealerships. Destination charges are typically not negotiable. Occasionally some select model trims will have a slightly higher fee than others.
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
Road Test Score
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
Road Test Score
Road test score is a composite based on more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility in
Colchester, Conn., on cars that Consumer Reports has purchased. Among the many tests are assessments of emergency-handling, braking capabilities,
fuel economy, ride, seat comfort, headlights, and controls.
/ 100
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Reliability
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the reliability of new and redesigned models.
/ 100
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Our extensive survey data, combined with our technical knowledge, allows us to expertly predict the owner satisfaction of new and redesigned models.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2025 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
Redesigned for 2025, the fourth-generation X3 grows slightly in length and power, and it adopts a high-tech, minimalist interior design.
It launches in two trims: 30 xDrive with a 255-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and M50 xDrive with a 393-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine.
Each is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, augmented with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and employs all-wheel drive. The optional driving assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance.
The dash is dominated by a wide, curved display that houses the iDrive 9 infotainment system, available with numerous connected features.
Among the notable upgrades is the ability for navigation instructions to be overlaid on the road ahead using the head-up display for augmented reality.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2018 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
BMW's redesigned, third-generation X3 adds upscale cabin amenities, technology, and safety features.
Most X3s are the 30i version, which uses a 248-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine.
It delivers quick acceleration and returned 24 mpg overall in our tests.
The uplevel M40i gets a 355-hp, turbo six-cylinder.
As before, its smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard.
The new X3 is super quiet inside, with impeccable fit and finish.
Handling is quite responsive, and the ride is firm yet absorbent.
The latest generation of the iDrive infotainment system has been simplified.
Blind-spot and lane-departure warnings, as well as low speed automatic emergency braking, are common options.
A rear-wheel drive sDrive30i is added for the 2019 model year.
The 2020 model adapted the latest iDrive version, and made Apple CarPlay standard.
Updates for 2021 included standard lane departure warning and blind spot warning.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2011 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
The second generation X3 impressed us with its sporty handling, composed ride, seamless eight-speed automatic, and nicely finished interior.
Supportive seats, easy access, tasteful but understated interior ambiance and a manageable size make it a very compelling compact luxury SUV.
The iDrive control system takes some getting used to, but proves logical over time.
The electronic gear selector is also a bit unintuitive at first.
Two versions are available, a 28i and a 35i.
Most are going to be the 28i.
The 2011 and 2012 28i models had a normally aspirated 3.0-liter six cylinder.
Starting in 2013, the engine was replaced by a 2.0-liter four, making the same 240 hp and getting only slightly better fuel economy (23 mpg vs.
22).
The 2013 model year also brought standard 18-inch wheels and a powered lift gate.
Make sure you get an X3 with the optional and essential rear view camera and avoid the optional 19-inch wheels.
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
2004 Model Redesign Year
The redesign year indicates that the car is either introduced for the first time or an existing model has been
significantly re-engineered. The more extensive or complicated the redesign, the higher the risk of reliability problems.
The first generation X3 was narrow, stiff riding and the interior wasn't up to BMW's usual fit and finish standards.
The very hard and choppy ride takes a toll on one's bladder and vertebrae.
Handling is agile and very secure.
Through 2006, a pair of six-cylinder engines was available.
These were a somewhat underpowered 184-hp, 2.5-liter and a more powerful 225-hp, 3.0-liter.
The five-speed automatic was a fairly smooth.
All-wheel drive was standard.
The 2007 models brought a revised suspension that improved the ride only marginally, as well as a six-speed automatic, and a 3.0-liter six-cylinder with more horsepower.
Fuel economy, at 19 mpg isn't all that great.
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