Overview
BMW is known for making vehicles with an emphasis on performance. BMW dominated the luxury sport sedan class for decades before SUVs began taking over roads, and the automaker infuses its SUVs with a similar sporty character. Take the 2023 BMW X3, for example. This small SUV finds its "just-right" sizing between the smaller subcompact BMW X1 and the larger X5, delivering good passenger and cargo space while remaining fun to drive. Even its base four-cylinder engine makes plenty of power, and handling should please spirited drivers.
After a refreshening last year, the X3 returns largely unchanged for 2023. We lose a few technology items due to the microchip shortage, but at its core, the X3 is unaffected. That means it maintains its standing in a class that includes the more luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLC and the more affordable Genesis GV70 and Acura RDX. The Mercedes isn't as entertaining to drive, while the Genesis and Acura aren't as refined inside. The BMW X3 splits the difference.
Adding to the X3's appeal is a long list of standard features and options to tailor it to your needs and tastes. Just be sure to keep an eye on the bottom line, as those add-ons can get expensive.
Positives
Potent power and sporty handling. Abundance of standard and optional features. Plenty of passenger space.
Considerations
Stiff ride. Interior isn't as refined as in some rivals.
Verdict
The BMW X3 is a great choice for those who need an SUV but desire a sporty sedan. The X3 has a good blend of both, but be mindful of the price, as options can quickly send the cost skyward.
What's New for 2023
For 2023, proximity keyless entry becomes a standard feature across the BMW X3 lineup. The X3 loses gesture control, and the Driving Assistance Professional package is currently unavailable due to the ongoing microchip shortage.
Trims and Pricing
The 2023 BMW X3 is available in two trim levels: 30i and M40i. BMW calls its standard models with rear-wheel drive "sDrive" while all-wheel-drive models get the "xDrive" moniker. The 30i base model is the most popular trim, and it is also the one we recommend. We'll explain why.
30i
The BMW X3 sDrive30i starts at $46,395 and comes with a 248-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but the 30i is also available with all-wheel drive (xDrive30i) for an additional $2,000. Tri-zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and push-button start are included. We recommend this trim as it offers the best mix of performance, value, and comfort.
M40i
At $60,945, the more powerful X3 M40i features a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the M40i's 382-hp turbocharged inline-six engine, as well as an upgraded suspension, standard all-wheel drive, and larger brakes. It also comes with a panoramic moonroof, adaptive headlights, and larger 19-inch wheels for a more functional and imposing profile.
Engine and Performance
The 2023 BMW X3 30i base model comes with a 248-horsepower engine that is sufficiently powerful for spirited driving. It features responsive steering and capable braking to handle tight turns and winding roads. The M40i is for buyers who want more of a true sport sedan experience. Its 382-hp engine delivers impressive straightline performance, while the upgraded suspension and brakes make it equally capable when the road turns twisty. The M40i's mild-hybrid system provides a boost of up to 11 hp on demand as well as energy recuperation during deceleration; it also makes the engine's start-stop feature silky smooth. Both engines come standard with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
In its standard rear-wheel-drive configuration, the 2023 BMW X3 30i delivers 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. That drops to 21/28 mpg city/highway for the all-wheel-drive 30i. That's above average for a luxury compact SUV. Fuel economy falls to 21/26 mpg city/highway for the M40i model, which is not much of a penalty considering its more powerful engine.
Interior
Surprisingly spacious for a small SUV, the BMW X3's cabin features an attractive, though very simple, layout with excellent fit and finish. All models come with tri-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, and push-button start. Options include rear sunshades and a panoramic moonroof. The X3 also provides more headroom for front-seat passengers than competing small SUVs, although some of that comes at the expense of rear legroom. Cargo capacity measures 28.7 cubic feet and 62.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, which is impressive for the segment.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2023 BMW X3 comes packed with technology, including BMW's iDrive infotainment system. The standard touchscreen measures 10.2 inches and dominates the dashboard with its bright colors and crisp graphics. Knobs, touchpads, and buttons make the system easy to operate while driving. All models come with Apple CarPlay, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and navigation. The small SUV also gets standard Bluetooth, two USB ports, satellite radio, HD Radio, and a 12-speaker stereo. Buyers can add Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless device charging, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Safety
The 2023 BMW X3 has not yet been evaluated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ([https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2022/BMW/X3/SUV/RWD)), but the very similar 2022 X3 received a top five-star rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designated the 2022 model as Good in all crash tests, its highest rating.
All X3s come with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, front and rear parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking. Due to the ongoing microchip shortage, many optional safety features are temporarily unavailable. These may include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, a surround-view parking camera system, adaptive headlights, lane-keeping assist, hands-free parallel park assist, and a head-up display.
BMW X3 vs. the Competition
TrueCar Expert Review Methodology
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