Used BMW X3 (Mk3, 2017-2024) buyer's guide: the BMW SUV sweet spot
The third-generation BMW X3 is a real sweet spot in the car maker's range because it's good to live with and drive
Verdict
Of BMW's various SUVs, it's the X3 that hits the spot for many people because it's just the right size. As a result, it's more wieldy and affordable than an X5, it's more roomy and usable than an X1, but it has everything that you'd expect of a BMW: a user-friendly cabin, excellent handling, efficient engines, and refinement levels that make long-distance journeys a breeze.
The first-generation X3 disappointed in some ways, but the Mk2 was far better, with the Mk3 even better in a multitude of ways. That's just as well, because by the time it appeared the X3 Mk3 was up against some very desirable and talented rivals, and we'd urge you to look at some of those alongside the BMW, because there are so many excellent options within the segment.
Many third-generation BMW X3 owners passed their driving test and started buying cars at a time when BMW used the slogan ‘the ultimate driving machine’. Back then it was all saloons and coupés, with the occasional estate (or 'Touring') thrown in for good measure, but since then BMW has become synonymous with SUVs.
Thankfully, BMW's 4x4s are better to drive than most, and they still offer many of the qualities that made those older models so appealing, such as impressive practicality, peerless ergonomics and superb build quality, so BMW hasn't sold its soul by going all-out to embrace the SUV market.
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Most importantly, the X3 has hit the spot for many buyers, with around two million examples sold since the launch of the first model in 2003, so it's clearly no dud.
History
The BMW X3 Mk3 went on sale in November 2017. There were two diesel options: the 187bhp xDrive20d, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, and the 261bhp xDrive30d with a 3.0-litre straight-six powerplant. The sole petrol option was the 355bhp M40i, with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine.
By the time the first cars were delivered in January 2018, a 181bhp xDrive20i had been added to the range, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.
The hottest X3 yet, arrived in September 2019: the 503bhp X3 M Competition. For those who wanted ultimate economy, the X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid appeared in spring 2020, just as the X3 xDrive20d gained mild hybrid tech as standard.
A facelift in September 2021 brought updated infotainment, range-wide mild hybrid tech, refreshed exterior styling, more standard equipment and a 335bhp M40d option.
Which one should I buy?
Whether you buy a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid X3 you'll probably love it, although the latter will return disappointing fuel economy if your journeys are mainly long-distance and high-speed. Shorter trips are the hybrid's forte, so you can use electricity more of the time.
All X3s have an automatic transmission, so it's just a question of picking which trim you want, and they're all pretty generously equipped. The entry-level SE comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats and a powered tailgate.
Move up a level to the xLine and you'll have 19in wheels, sports front seats, brushed aluminium exterior trim and subtle body styling. The M Sport has a more prominent bodykit, bigger brakes, sport suspension and a 10.25in dash display.
Alternatives to the BMW X3 Mk3
The BMW X4 might suit if ultimate practicality isn't key, because it has the X3's great powertrains and user-friendly interior, with a great drive too.
Audi’s Q5 also has some impressive engines, plus it's roomy and practical. It's also very refined, just like the Mercedes GLC, which is comfy and has a superbly designed cabin.
The Porsche Macan leads the class when it comes to dynamic excellence; it's roomy and incredibly refined, but costly to buy and run. A Range Rover Velar looks great inside and out, but running costs are high and reliability can be patchy; the Jaguar F-Type looks stylish and is fun to drive, just like the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Volvo’s XC60 majors on safety and has a fabulous interior, plus there's a huge choice of powertrains.
What to look for
Four-wheel drive
All X3s came with xDrive four-wheel drive as standard, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission; there was never a manual option for any of the different derivatives.
Towing
The X3 makes an impressive tow car, with most models capable of pulling up to 2000kg. Some derivatives can haul 2400kg though, including the xDrive30e, the M40d and the M40i.
Codename
The third-generation X3 is known as the G01 by BMW, to separate it from its predecessor, which was the F25. The original X3, launched in 2003, was codenamed E83 by BMW.
Run-flat issues
Some owners have had problems with the factory-fit Bridgestone run-flat tyres cracking or wearing prematurely. Some have switched to Pirellis and found that they wear better.
Interior
The cabin is a real X3 high point, for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it's full of premium materials, secondly it's well designed so everything is easy to find. And thirdly, there's plenty of space whichever row you're sitting in.
The back seats have plenty of head and leg room, but this doesn't come at the expense of boot space because there's loads of that too. With the back seats in place the boot can stow an impressive 550 litres; drop them and this jumps to 1,600 litres.
Running costs
As with all BMWs, the X3 comes with Condition-Based Servicing, which is a variable-servicing programme that tells the driver when maintenance is required, based on oil levels, wear rates of individual components and how hard the vehicle is driven.
With normal driving, an oil service is due every 16,000 miles or so. Parts are replaced when necessary rather than according to a set schedule, so there are no fixed prices for the services, but as a rule of thumb you'll pay £209-£231 (depending on which engine is fitted) for an oil and filter change.
Also replace the air and fuel filters and this cost jumps to £375-£398, while fresh brake fluid is required after three years and then every other year, at £52. Lifetime coolant is used and all X3 engines are chain-driven, so there are no cambelts to replace.
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Recalls
BMW has recalled the X3 Mk3 eight times so far, the first in December 2018 because of a component within the steering system working loose.
The rear spoiler working loose led to the next recall, in July 2019; two months later another campaign was launched because some X3s left the factory with poorly made seat frames.
Sub-standard parts in the front suspension led to recall number four, in October 2019, then there were two recalls in April 2020, one because of airbag glitches and one because of faulty front seatbelt buckles.
The most recent recalls were issued in November and December 2020, the first because of short circuits in the battery packs of plug-in hybrids, the second because of the possibility of seatbelts working loose.
Driver Power ownership satisfaction
Given its age, it’s perhaps no surprise that the X3 Mk3 achieves a so-so result in our Driver Power survey – although it still manages to beat the Range Rover Evoque Mk2 and VW Tiguan Mk2, along with the third-generation Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga. Of the X3 owners who took part in our survey, just 10 per cent owned a plug-in hybrid edition, with most opting for diesel.
The BMW’s highest rating, and its only one in the top 10, is eighth for the slick automatic transmission. But there are three 11th places, for seating versatility, boot space and the number of cubbyholes dotted around the cabin. Not far behind is the sensitivity of the touchscreen displays, in 15th place. Rear-seat legroom ranks 19th and the quality of the cabin materials comes 21st, but most other categories are in the bottom half of the table.
Along with 46th for ride quality and servicing costs, the X3 ranks a disappointing 48th for other running costs such as insurance, while reliability comes in at 41st. Owners also aren’t impressed by the value for money that the X3 represents; it came 48th out of 50 for this.
What do owners think?
Here what owners think of the BMW X3 Mk3 in our 2024 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey.
| What they like | What they don't like |
| “My X3 is whisper-quiet when it’s in electric mode, and there’s hardly any noise when the engine is running.” | “I’ve owned four X3s over the past eight years and this one has by far the worst-quality paint and panel fit.” |
| “The smooth-changing automatic transmission is great, with its manual options and various modes.” | “Crazy maintenance costs: £300 for a new battery in the shark-fin and £340 for an oil and filter change.” |
| “BMW has used the interior space really well, so I can accommodate my golf clubs and my other luggage.” | “The infotainment wheel is too near the front passenger seat, so it’s easy for them to change things by mistake.” |
| “Due to the strong residuals, I’m paying the same for my £53k car on a PCP as I was for my £34k 1 Series.” | “The software crashes and BMW can’t fix it. The tech has gone too far for the technicians to keep up.” |
| “The X3 is a pleasure to drive on short and long journeys. It’s effortless to live with, and looks good.” | “It’s easy to confuse the gearbox when slowing for a roundabout and then accelerating away.” |
| “There are good-quality materials throughout, a great paint finish, and stylish wheels into the bargain.” | |
| “The chassis generates lots of grip and there’s limited body roll, while the well weighted steering gives me plenty of feedback. It’s very comfy too, even with sports suspension.” | |
| “There’s ample adjustment in the seat to provide a good driving position – even though I’m much shorter than average. All-round visibility is great, helped by the 360-degree cameras.” | |
| “There’s lots of boot space, especially with the under-floor storage and the versatility of a 40:60-split folding rear seat that also slides back and forth. Those back seats fold flat, and the tailgate opening is large and square, so it’s perfect for me.” |
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Used BMW X3s for sale
2021 BMW
X3
82,868 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L
Cash £19,671
2021 BMW
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43,411 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £25,940
2021 BMW
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43,691 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £25,600
2024 BMW
X3
20,286 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L
Cash £31,327
2020 BMW
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48,629 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £25,020
2020 BMW
X3
41,021 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £22,080
2021 BMW
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39,145 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £25,577
2020 BMW
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33,612 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £27,563
2020 BMW
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56,915 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L
Cash £23,340
BMW X3 Mk3 review: what we said
Extracts from our road test of the Mk3 BMW X3 in December 2022...
The BMW X3 used to sit in a class of its own, but almost two decades after the original car was launched, a number of quality rivals have arrived to muscle in on the action. Fortunately for BMW the company has responded well to the competition, with the latest version of the X3 improving refinement, ride quality and style. Cutting-edge technology marks it out as one of the best in the business in this area, too.
The latest X3 is practical and spacious, although some people might be disappointed by the lack of a seven-seat option to cater for larger families. There is, at least, a plug-in hybrid option to consider now alongside the petrol and diesel versions of the car, not to mention the pure-electric iX3.
About the BMW X3
The BMW X3 was one of the first compact premium SUVs out of the blocks, but the third generation car now has a tough fight on its hands. That's because it's on sale in a market that has changed beyond recognition from when the original model was launched in 2003.
In the intervening years, many rivals have been introduced to challenge the X3's position, including the German trio of the Audi Q5, Mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan, while the Jaguar F-Pace, Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Velar offer up competition from the UK.
Other interesting alternatives include the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Lexus NX and the highly-regarded Volvo XC60. Thankfully, the latest X3, introduced at the end of 2017, has stepped up its game and is still a strong contender in the class.
The X3 gets a look that's an evolution of what's gone before, but under the skin it's all-new, with running gear borrowed from the BMW 5 Series. All versions come with xDrive four-wheel drive as standard, although there's no manual gearbox option, only an eight-speed automatic.
A facelift in 2021 brought in a sharper, sportier exterior look, while BMW added its latest on-board tech, enhanced cabin materials and 48-volt mild-hybrid systems across its engine range.
The range comprises xDrive20i, xDrive20d, xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, xDrive30d, M40i and M40d engines. Beyond that BMW also offers the iX3 model as part of its ‘i’ electric car range.
The numbers in the model names generally relate to engine size, which means that 20i and 20d models get a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel respectively, while the 30d gets a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel. Just to confuse things, the M40 models also get 3.0-litre straight-sixes, but with larger power outputs, while the 30e plug-in hybrid uses the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor.
Engines, performance and drive
This third-generation BMW X3 was all-new from the ground up, and is based on the brand’s CLAR platform, which it shares with the excellent 5 Series saloon. That means the new X3 is 55kg lighter than before, but retains similar dimensions to the old model.
The weight is distributed equally (50:50 front to rear), which helps improve handling, and M Sport models get standard sports suspension, which is firmer than the normal set-up and includes thicker anti-roll bars to improve body control in corners.
BMW also offers optional adaptive dampers as part of its M Sport Pro Package, which allows you to select how stiff you want the car’s suspension to be. Using the mode select button you can also alter steering, throttle and gearbox settings, choosing between Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport options.
The weight reduction over the old X3 means the latest version is lighter than rivals such as the Jaguar F-Pace and Volvo XC60, which boosts its handling. The previous X3 was always a top choice in this class when it came to driving dynamics, and that hasn’t changed with the G01 model. The advanced new architecture means the new BMW offers a class-leading ride and handling balance.
In comfort mode it’s supple enough that there’s only a small difference between it and the Volvo XC60, but it’s more compliant than the Volvo and deals with mid-corner bumps with more composure.
The X3’s steering isn’t as quick as the Jaguar F-Pace, and it doesn’t quite match the F-Pace’s agile handling, but it’s so close behind and is also more comfortable, so for most buyers the BMW is the better choice.
The M40i is a surprisingly accomplished driver's car. True, at at around £63,000 or thereabouts it's expensive, and true, it's a relatively tall SUV that can't defy the laws of physics - but with its 3.0-litre straight-six engine providing a 0-62mph time of just 4.9 seconds it's more than swift enough, while the playful crackles from the exhaust when in Sport mode are a welcome antidote to the X3's otherwise sensible nature.
A direct rival to the Audi SQ5, the X3 M40i entertains more during cornering; its meaty steering offers more feel than you might expect, its nose tucks neatly into corners, and body roll is well managed during tight turns.
Owners aren’t likely to spend much time off-roading in the X3, but the extra traction the standard xDrive four-wheel-drive system adds will help on road, too. A facelift in 2021 saw the X3 adopt 48-volt mild-hybrid systems for both its petrol and diesel engine ranges. This means energy is recuperated when decelerating, and can be used to assist the 12-volt electric system for certain functions. The system can also provide a 11bhp boost when needed.
0-62mph acceleration and top speed
The starting point of the new petrol engine line-up is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine making 182bhp and offering a 134mph top speed and 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds. Like all the other engines in the X3 line-up, it comes with a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox and no manual option. If you insist on a petrol engine, but want more power and efficiency, there's now the choice of a plug-in hybrid model which makes 288bhp. The pricey M40i is around £16,000 more than the entry-level 2.0-litre petrol, so you'll need to really want the extra performance to justify the outlay.
Alternatively, you can pick from a couple of diesels. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder model makes 187bhp and offers a claimed 7.9 second 0-62mph time, while the range-topping 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel variant makes 282bhp and will do 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds.
We've tested the entry-level diesel model, the 20d. It’s a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, the same configuration as in the Jaguar F-Pace and Volvo XC60, and with 187bhp it matches the XC60 for power and beats the 178bhp F-Pace. But in our tests at the track the X3 20d was significantly quicker than its rivals. From 0-60mph, it was a second faster than the XC60 and 1.4 seconds faster than the F-Pace, taking just 8.0 seconds.
It’s a similar story with the in-gear figures: from 30-50mph in fourth the BMW recorded a time of 3.4 seconds, easily beating the Jaguar’s 4.6 seconds and the Volvo’s 3.7 seconds. It seems quicker in the real world as well, since the gearbox is well matched to the engine, with nicely spaced ratios. This helps boost refinement further, an area where the X3 excels because its powertrain is easily the quietest of the three models on the move.
MPG, CO2 and running costs
BMW is a premium brand, and that means overall purchase and running costs for the X3 are going to be higher than crossovers with lower badge values. Comparisons to the rest of the premium sector shouldn’t throw up too many shocks though.
The same goes for fuel economy and emissions, which fall into the same ballpark as upmarket rivals. However, these are big, heavy vehicles, and it will be relatively easy for owners to return real world figures that look much less appealing than the official test results. If you really want minimal running costs, the all-electric iX3 is the way to go but we’re concentrating on the petrol and diesel models here.
alking of which, the smallest 2.0-litre diesel returns a WLTP combined test result of up to 48.7mpg, with CO2 emissions from 152g/km. The 3.0-litre diesel isn’t that far behind, capable of eking out a test figure of up to 44.8mpg with emissions of 164g/km. The 2.0-litre petrol offers up to 37.2mpg with 173g/km in xLine trim, while the racy X3 M40i will theoretically manage up to 31.0mpg, while producing up to 210g/km of CO2.
Interior, design and technology
The Mk3 BMW X3’s design gives the car a much more contemporary look than its predecessor, but it’s certainly evolutionary. Given the success of the previous model – and BMW’s inherent design conservatism – it was never going to be a radical departure.
There’s still just the one five-door bodystyle, with a strong family resemblance to the rest of the BMW SUV range, but the double kidney grille is more prominent with rounded edges. The headlamps have a more rakish appearance, and the entire front end is bolder. The long, squared-off bonnet is a design cue from the bigger X5, while the body sides taper towards a backend that’s more curvaceous than on X3s of old.
The 2021 facelifted model brought in a new front apron giving a sportier look, while the the kidney grille was lightly restyled. Slimmer headlights add to the sharper appearance, along with a new rear bumper and tail-light signatures. M Sport trim models look even more dynamic than before, with a updated bodykit.
You can tell the models apart, as xLine versions have ‘off-road’ accents with highlighted sills and more rugged detailing, while M Sport versions have body-coloured trim and a more aggressive look.
The X3 interior is more of a leap forward, and shades of the 5 Series saloon are evident in the latest design, which features a broad central console topped by a slick-looking 12.3-inch display.
s you’d expect from any new BMW, it employs plenty of the latest tech for safety and efficiency. Engines employ features such as variable vane turbocharging and common rail injection, while more advanced construction techniques mean the vehicle is lighter than before. The newly tapered rear end brings aerodynamic advantages, while ‘air curtain’ aero tech is designed to reduce drag around the front end.
Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment
Every X3 model features twin 12.3-inch displays as standard; the driver's digital instrument screen works well, while the media touchscreen is intuitive to use.
The user interface is slick, fast and easy to understand, which puts it ahead of the Jaguar F-Pace and Volvo XC60 for use on the move; it features a rotary iDrive dial as well as a touch pad interface, too. Features include live traffic updates for the sat-nav (which are excellent), a 20Gb hard drive for adding your own music, online weather and news updates and 3D mapping. It’s a great system, and all the better now Apple CarPlay is standard. Android Auto is now supported as well.
BMW’s upgraded 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is available as part of the Technology Pack, although there is also a mid-range system which has 12 speakers. The real beauty of the BMW’s set-up, however, is its logical menu layout, crisp graphics and ease of use.
Practicality, comfort and boot space
The first thing you notice when stepping into the BMW X3’s cabin is the luxurious ambience created by stylish design and good quality materials. All models get leather upholstery and, as usual for BMW, seat comfort, the driving position and the layout of controls are exemplary. It’s quiet and refined on the move too, and with a well-controlled ride and a decent infotainment system part of the standard spec, it’s definitely a good place to rack up some miles.
Size
As it’s based on the 5 Series saloon platform, the BMW X3 enjoys a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. It’s a large car anyway, measuring up at 4,708mm long, 1,676mm tall and 1,891mm wide. The Mercedes GLC is only 4,656mm long, while the Audi Q5 measures up at 4,663mm. A Jaguar F-Pace is longer though, at 4,731mm nose-to-tail.
Leg room, head room & passenger space
The latest BMW X3’s extended wheelbase means there’s plenty of space inside for occupants, and the interior feels noticeably more spacious than the old car’s. In fact it feels pretty similar to the amount of room offered by the larger BMW X5 model.
Up front the driver and passenger are spoiled for space, but you can also get full-sized adults into the rear – there’s enough legroom for a six-foot adult to sit behind a similarly tall driver.
Headroom is not an issue wherever you sit, even when the airy panoramic sunroof is fitted. You can get three people onto the rear bench comfortably too, as long as they don’t mind rubbing shoulders. As mentioned previously there’s no option to fit a third row of seats – presumably BMW believes it would take the X3 too far into the territory of the larger X5.
Boot
The X3’s size hasn’t changed much, so practicality is strong. The 550-litre boot is square, and with its low lip it’s no trouble to load and unload heavy items. It’s not as spacious as the Jaguar F-Pace, though, which has a 650-litre luggage area. The Jag’s total capacity of 1,740 litres makes it the winner in terms of sheer load volume, too. However, the X3, offering 1,600 litres of loadspace, is bigger than the Volvo XC60 by a comfortable 150 litres.
Towing
The BMW X3 keeps things simple when it comes to towing. It doesn’t matter which engine, drivetrain and transmission you go for, the maximum braked trailer towing capacity is 2,000kg.
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