Since its introduction over 20 years in the past, BMW has offered greater than 2.5 million items of the X3. The midsize SUV grew to become the corporate’s best-selling mannequin in 2023, with 350,000 gross sales. Moreover, the Munich-based automaker has launched the fourth-generation (G45) X3 this 12 months, that includes up to date styling, facilities, and powertrains.
In China, the place the X3 represents about 40 p.c of BMW’s X mannequin gross sales, the Bavarian agency affords it with an prolonged wheelbase. Whereas the inner combustion engine X3, together with the X3 30e plug-in hybrid, stays on the CLAR platform, the all-electric iX3 will transition to the Neue Klasse structure beginning subsequent 12 months.
Regardless of this shift, the X3 is predicted to take care of its robust efficiency out there on account of its total worth, which we are going to discover on this article. We may also spotlight the components that will problem its dominance.
Premium Pricing however Not Extreme
In the US, the X3 begins at $49,500, barely above the $48,724 common transaction value for brand spanking new autos within the nation (in keeping with Kelley Blue Guide). This positions it near rivals just like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class ($49,250) and the Audi Q5 ($45,400).
The performance-oriented X3 M50 begins at the next value level of $64,100, which may rise considerably with choices just like the Frozen Deep Gray exterior ($3,600) or the Premium Package deal ($2,700). Even so, the X3 M50 stays extra inexpensive than the Porsche Macan S ($74,500) or Macan GTS ($89,000).
Whereas there are inexpensive luxurious SUVs, together with the X1 and X2 from BMW, the X3 justifies its value with better area, practicality, engineering, and efficiency.
A number of Powertrains with Sheer Driving Pleasure
As a part of BMW’s “Energy of Alternative” technique, the X3 affords a variety of powertrains, together with mild-hybrid petrol and diesel, plug-in hybrid, and full electrical choices. This variety permits BMW to cater to totally different markets, geographies, and shopper preferences.
Complementing these powertrains is an exceptionally succesful chassis, enabling the X3 to ship class-leading dealing with and driving dynamics. Whereas it might not match the uncooked driving capabilities of the three Sequence sedan, most consumers gained’t discover the distinction except they often push their autos to the restrict.
For example, the two.0-liter four-cylinder B48 within the X3 30 produces 255 horsepower and may speed up from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds—greater than sufficient for day by day use. For these looking for extra energy, the inline-six B58 within the M50 delivers 393 horsepower, reaching a 0 to 60 mph time of simply 4.4 seconds.
Though some lovers might miss the absence of a full M mannequin within the G45 era, this hole may very well be stuffed by a future iX3-based successor.
Are There Drawbacks?
For all its strengths, the X3 has some limitations. First, its design and styling could be polarizing. Whereas the G45’s exterior isn’t as extreme as fashions just like the XM, it might nonetheless divide opinions. Moreover, the inside of worldwide variations has been described as underwhelming, although Chinese language-market fashions reportedly supply higher interiors.
One other downside is the tech interface. Options just like the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 14.9-inch touchscreen, iDrive 9, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, head-up show, and varied driver-assistance methods could be barely distracting and complicated to make use of at first.
Nevertheless, these flaws are unlikely to considerably affect the X3’s success. Many consumers recognize BMW’s cohesive design language and the street presence it gives, whereas homeowners typically adapt to the software program over time.
General, the X3’s mixture of efficiency, versatility, and pricing makes it a standout possibility in an more and more aggressive phase. It affords one of the vital compelling packages for drivers, hanging a steadiness between luxurious and practicality. With the upcoming Neue Klasse-based iX3, BMW is ready to additional strengthen the X3’s enchantment, making the lineup much more engaging.
