The BMW X3 is a strong player in the luxury compact crossover segment. It may not stand head-and-shoulders above the competition in all categories, but neither does it have many glaring flaws — not something that can be said for many of its rivals. As such, the X3 was the second-best-selling BMW model for 2022 — trailing only its bigger brother, the X5 — and was third in overall sales among all luxury cars.
The X3 is celebrating its 20th year of production for 2023 in its third generation and received a refresh for the 2022 model year, so it rides into 2023 with minimal updates, though, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The X3 remains solidly practical, notably comfortable, and among one of the most fun-to-drive luxury compact crossovers on the market.
2023 BMW X3
- Model
- X3
- Engine:
- 2.0L turbo four/3.0L turbo inline-six
- Power Output
- 248-382 HP
- Torque
- 258-369 LB-FT
- Range
- 26 Combined MPG
- Transmission
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Driveline
- FWD/AWD
- MSRP
- $46,395
- Head-Up Display
- Adaptive Dampers
- Harmon Kardon Speaker System
- Wi-Fi Hotspot
- Available Turbocharge Inline-Six
- 4,400 Pound Towing Capacity
2023 BMW X3 Performance And Capability
The 2023 BMW X3 is available in three trims; sDrive30i, xDrive30i, and M40i. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter delivering 248 horsepower and a max torque of 258 pound-feet at 1,450 to 4,800 rpm. The sDrive30i model sends its power exclusively to the front wheels while the xDrive30i has standard all-wheel drive.
The M40i is the most potent non-M X3 and is fitted with a turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-six developing a substantial 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The M40i will zip from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, just over two seconds faster than the xDrive30i, making it the obvious choice for those who value overall performance.
No matter the guise, the 2023 X3 comes fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and it is notably agile in corners. It remains planted to the road through bends and provides enough feedback to inspire confidence when pushing. This is especially true for models sporting optional adaptive dampers or the adaptive M suspension available in the M40i. The M40i also includes upgraded brakes, adaptive steering, and a sport steering wheel.
Despite its athleticism, the X3 is still comfortable on the daily commute and on the highway. Passengers may feel some road imperfections, but overall, ride quality is a harmonious blend of sportiness and comfort.
The front-wheel drive sDrive30i is unsurprisingly the most fuel-efficient of the bunch, returning 25 combined mpg (23 city/29 highway), according to the EPA, just slightly better economy than the xDrive30i’s 24 combined mpg rating. Upping the power to the M40i does not require a significant drop in efficiency as the inline-six model is still rated for 23 combined mpg (21 city/26 highway). The M40i’s fuel economy is assisted by a standard 48-volt mild hybrid system that acts as a starter/generator.
When equipped with a factory-installed trailer hitch 2023 X3 has a max tow rating of 4,400 pounds, making it one of the most capable haulers in its class. The stand-alone option is available on all models but deletes the X3 tailgate’s “smart opener” feature.
Exterior Design
The X3 received a mid-cycle refresh for 2022 with a redesigned kidney grille, front and rear bumpers, headlights, rear lights, and dual exhausts. The revamped X3 looks slightly more muscular than its predecessor with a chiseled hood, slimmer headlights, a larger kidney grille, and revised vertical air intakes below the grille. The rear lights now sport a three-dimensional appearance with integrated turn signal bars. Overall, the revised X3 remains handsome. It is not particularly flashy, but it's chiseled exterior and refined appearance are also easy to appreciate.
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 185.9 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 84.2 in. |
Height | 66 in. |
Wheelbase | 112.8 in. |
Ground Clearance | 8 in. |
Curb Weight | 4,079 lbs. |
Exterior Colors
Exterior Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Jet Black | $0 |
Mineral White | $0 |
Skyscraper Grey | $650 |
Carbon Black | $650 |
Alpine White | $650 |
Brooklyn Grey | $650 |
Photonic Blue | $650 |
Dark Graphite | $650 |
Black Sapphire | $650 |
Tanzanite Blue II | $1,500 |
Aventurin Red | $1,500 |
Interior Quality And Technology
The 2023 X3 shares its interior with the 4 Series sedan, and it isn’t the most stylish in its segment, but it is clean, modern, and pragmatic. The dash is topped by a 10.25-inch center display above a set of vents integrated into the center stack and above an array of physical dials and controls. A traditional gear lever, BMW’s rotary controller, and a sizeable storage space reside forward of the center console.
Interior fitments are highly customizable through trim choice and with a bevy of offered stand-alone options and packages. As standard, the sDrive30i and xDrive30i are fitted with synthetic leather upholstery and a 12-speaker audio system. Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.
Some notable options for the X3 include a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free liftgate, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, heated and ventilated front seats, genuine leather upholstery, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Optional wheels of either 19, 20, or 21 inches can also be had with the M Sport Package.
The M40i comes standard with a long list of performance kits in addition to a panoramic sunroof, hands-free liftgate, keyless entry, driver seat lumbar support, a synthetic leather-trimmed dashboard, and digital gauge cluster.
The Beemer’s cabin is spacious for its size, with ample head and legroom for adults in both rows of seats. Cargo space for the 2023 X3 is a sizeable 28.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.7 cubic feet behind the front row. Handles on the rear seatbacks enable the back seats to be quickly folded away.
Interior Dimensions
Seating Capacity | 5 |
|---|---|
Headroom (front) | 41.1 in. |
Headroom (second row) | 39.1 in. |
Legroom (front) | 40.3 in. |
Legroom (second row) | 36.4 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 57.6 in. |
Shoulder room (second row) | 56 in. |
Cargo Room | 28.7 cu.-ft. |
2023 BMW X3 Price And Availability
The 2023 BMW X3 is available now with prices starting at $46,395 MSRP for the sDrive30i and topping out at $60,495 for the M40i. The X3’s pricing is on par with much of its competition, but with a long list of desirable amenities included in options packages, many buyers are likely to pay higher-than-MSRP prices. For instance, the Premium package for 30i models, which includes heated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and other features commands an additional $2,650.
2023 BMW X3 Price
Trim | Price |
|---|---|
sDrive30i | $45,400 |
xDrive30i | $47,400 |
M40i | $59,950 |
Safety
As standard, the X3 is fitted with a front automatic emergency braking system, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available features include an automatic parking system and a surround-view camera. Some available driver’s aids like a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a lane-keeping system are only available for the M40i. The 2023 BMW X3 earns a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It earns a full five stars for every category other than rollover for which it is rated 4/5 stars.
Main Competition
The X3 is a stalwart among the compact luxury SUV segment having been around for 20 years, but for 2023 it faces plenty of stiff competition. Its closest competitors include the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class, Audi Q5, and Genesis GV70.
The X3 lines up in price with its closest rivals, all of which start in the mid-$40,000 range. Those looking for a bargain might want to also consider the GV70, which starts a few thousand less than the X3 and comes with more amenities. The GV70’s V-6 version isn’t quite as sprightly as the M40i, but the GV70 does command about $5,000 less while offering more features.
Among its German competition, the X3 is far more spacious than the Mercedes, which only offers 19.4 cubic feet of storage behind the second row, and the BMW can tow more. However, the GLC sports a more upscale cabin. The X3 also offers plenty more grunt than the Q5, which offers 201 horsepower in its base form. The BMW feels more agile as well. The Audi offers slightly less cargo space, but its interior is a bit more handsome.
The X3 has the overall competency against its rivals to make it a solid choice no matter a buyer’s needs, though shopping around in the rich luxury compact crossover segment is still a wise decision given many of its rivals are also strong contenders.
FAQ
Q: What is the base price for a 2023 BMW X3?
The 2023 BMW X3 starts at $46,395 MSRP
Q: What year will the BMW X3 be redesigned?
The BMW X3 was refreshed in 2022, so the model should remain relatively unchanged for several years
Q: Which Mercedes is equivalent to 2023 BMW X3?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC Class competes directly with the X3
Q: Which car is bigger BMW X3 or Mercedes GLC?
The X3 and GLC are sized similarly overall, but the BMW offers significantly more cargo space
Q: Which Lexus competes with BMW X3?
The Lexus NX competes directly with the X3.