The BMW X3 is a premium compact crossover utility vehicle produced over three generations since its original launch in 2003. The X3 was BMW’s second foray into utility vehicles, expanding the Bavarian brand’s crossover portfolio beyond the earlier X5.
NEW FOR 2020: Up until recently, the X3 was only available as a fossil fuel powered vehicle but now BMW has added a plug-in hybrid version to the X3 lineup. The xDrive 30e is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine which combined with an electric motor produces a combined output of 292 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a 12kWh battery pack it can do about 20 miles and 68 mph in pure electric mode. The US launch is slated for spring 2020. Expect prices to start from $45,000 MSRP.
As the name suggests, the BMW X3 is based on the 3-Series car, the current third-generation model offering the same choice between rear- and all-wheel drive as its car counterpart. That latest X3 iteration first went on sale for the 2018 model year in the U.S., and it marks the first time a manual transmission is not available.
The BMW X3 has grown in size over the generations, today occupying a footprint larger than the original X5. In the US, it can be had with either of two turbocharged gasoline engines—a 2.0-liter inline-four, or a 3.0-liter inline-six—paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. Peak output ranges from 248 horsepower with the basic 2.0-liter, to 382 in the M40i.
With a starting MSRP of $42,945 including destination, the 2020 BMW X3 is solidly in premium vehicle territory.