Since its introduction over twenty years in the past, BMW has bought greater than 2.5 million models of the X3. The midsize SUV turned 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 yr, 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 provides it with an prolonged wheelbase. Whereas the interior 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 yr.
Regardless of this shift, the X3 is predicted to take care of its sturdy efficiency out there resulting from its general worth, which we are going to discover on this article. We may also spotlight the elements which will problem its dominance.
Premium Pricing however Not Extreme
In the USA, the X3 begins at $49,500, barely above the $48,724 common transaction value for brand new automobiles within the nation (based on Kelley Blue Ebook). This positions it near opponents 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 Bundle ($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 higher 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 provides 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 completely 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 received’t discover the distinction until they continuously push their automobiles to the restrict.
As an example, the two.0-liter four-cylinder B48 within the X3 30 produces 255 horsepower and might speed up from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds—greater than sufficient for every day use. For these looking for extra energy, the inline-six B58 within the M50 delivers 393 horsepower, attaining a 0 to 60 mph time of simply 4.4 seconds.
Though some lovers could miss the absence of a full M mannequin within the G45 era, this hole might be crammed by a future iX3-based successor.
Are There Drawbacks?
For all its strengths, the X3 has some limitations. First, its design and styling might 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 provide higher interiors.
One other disadvantage 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 numerous driver-assistance techniques might be barely distracting and sophisticated to make use of at first.
Nevertheless, these flaws are unlikely to considerably influence the X3’s success. Many consumers admire BMW’s cohesive design language and the highway presence it supplies, whereas house owners usually adapt to the software program over time.
Total, the X3’s mixture of efficiency, versatility, and pricing makes it a standout possibility in an more and more aggressive phase. It provides some of the compelling packages for drivers, placing a steadiness between luxurious and practicality. With the upcoming Neue Klasse-based iX3, BMW is about to additional strengthen the X3’s enchantment, making the lineup much more engaging.
