The BMW X3 comes in several models: the 4x2 sDrive30i, the AWD xDrive30i, and M40i as well as the X3 M. The xDrive30i and sDrive 30i are both powered by 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 2750 RPM. Clocking in at 4.1 seconds or 4.0 seconds flat. 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 M40i is 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, 26 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 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, power liftgate, and power-folding heated side mirrors. Inside the X3 owners will be impressed with the BMW infotainment system with 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.
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 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.
All X3 models come with a host of standard safety features including antilock brakes, a comprehensive set of airbags, stability control, brake assist, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning, a pedestrian detection system and a drive attention 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 BMW X3 and M3 both carry over with minimal changes for 2023.
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. The X3 and X3 M have power that swallows rival competitor's 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.
