2022 BMW X3

The BMW 3 Series has long been the standard-bearer of luxury sports sedans. Since 2003, the BMW X3 compact luxury crossover has been working hard to achieve that same status for its segment. By and large, it's accomplished that goal extremely well despite having formidable rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Now in its third generation, the X3 has been refined and perfected over the years and is now at the top of its game. Currently offered in multiple trims and with optional all-wheel drive, the X3 is the ideal combination of luxury, sportiness, and status for millions of very satisfied owners. It looks equally at home when parked at Costco or a country club.

BMW kindly loaned us a 2022 X3 xDrive30i for a week-long test and, as expected, it delivered the goods. The xDrive30i comes standard with AWD and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is the entry-level engine and, for less money, there's the rear-wheel-drive-only X3 sDrive30i powered by the same engine. Those looking for even more power can upgrade to the X3 M40i with its 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine.

Don't expect the X3, regardless of engine and RWD vs. AWD, to be a serious off-roader. It's not. What it can do is handle minor rough pavement situations, such as gravel roads and the like, snowy weather, and gentle inclines. Above all, it's a luxury performance SUV, or Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) as BMW likes to say. It is the 3 Series of SUVs.

BMW tends to take fewer stylistic risks with core models like the 3 Series and X3, so the design changes made for 2022 won't leave you in a state of utter shock. That's fine by us, as the X3 is a sporty, sophisticated SUV. The new grille and slimmer LED headlights are neatly executed, and the new lighting signature within the rear taillight clusters is quite striking at night.

The base model now comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, one size bigger than the 18s that were standard last year. Satin Aluminum roof rails, a rear roof spoiler, chrome exhaust tips, and power-folding side mirrors are standard. Full LED headlights are complemented by intricately shaped taillights with adaptive brake lights.

The M40i ups the aggression with its 19-inch M wheels, Shadowline exterior trim, and an aerodynamic kit. It also has a panoramic moonroof with a two-piece glass panel, something you have to pay extra for on 30i models.

Our Tanzanite Blue Metallic xDrive30i tester did not come equipped with any significant optional exterior features, and that's just fine. It's already a very well-executed package straight out of the box, which is good for buyers as they get sportiness and luxury all at once without having to pay more.

Longer and taller than the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the BMW X3 has dimensions that are otherwise typical for the average luxury compact crossover. It measures 185.9 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and 66 inches in height. The 112.8-inch wheelbase is actually a little shorter than its Mercedes rival. The M40i is slightly wider (74.7 inches) than 30i models.

The curb weight for the X3 sDrive30i is 4,079 pounds, increasing to 4,149 lbs for the xDrive30i variant with its heavier all-wheel-drive system. The heaviest model of all is the M40i at 4,392 lbs.

Alpine White and Jet Black are the two standard colors that won't add anything extra to the X3's base price. For $550 more, several metallic hues become available: Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, Dark Graphite, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, and Brooklyn Grey. The one catch comes if you select Carbon Black or Brooklyn Grey as both of these colors require the addition of the M Sport Package. Two premium colors - Tanzanite Blue II Metallic (featured on our tester) and Aventurin Red Metallic - cost the most at $1,500.

For the M40i, Jet Black falls away but the palette is otherwise unchanged for this feisty derivative. Red brake calipers and a special logo celebrating 50 years of BMW's M division are available as options for the M40i. This logo has semicircles in blue, dark blue, and red - the traditional M colors - and the emblem will replace the standard one on the hood, trunk, and wheel hubs.

The base 30i models continue to use BMW's proven 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower. In the sDrive30i, power goes to the rear wheels and the X3 will reach 60 mph in a swift six seconds. The heavier xDrive30i has exactly the same 0 to 60 time and 130-mph top speed. BMW has a habit of making the most of what it's got where its powertrains are concerned, and the base X3 is quicker than the base Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, despite the Merc having more horsepower and torque.

The X3 xDrive30i, in our opinion, is quick enough for a majority of buyers. But, of course, there are always those with a craving for speed.

We think that the M40i is the best X3 of all, something you'll agree with just minutes into a test drive. It doesn't have the bone-jarring ride of the X3 M, which we review separately, but is enormous fun to drive thanks to its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six which generates 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. With AWD traction, it will fly off the line and reach 60 mph just 4.4 seconds later. With performance tires, a top speed of 155 mph is possible. Once again, this is quicker than the more powerful AMG GLC 43 (4.7 seconds).

When properly equipped, the X3 can tow up to 4,400 lbs.

Two spirited powertrains provide the X3 lineup with flexible, potent, and refined performance. In the case of the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. An assertive yet smooth eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters comes as standard. This engine is eager and responsive, if not truly thrilling, but it does what's asked of it and doesn't have any glaring weaknesses. Whether driving in town or on the highway, it feels strong.

The M40i sounds more like a "proper" BMW thanks to its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, an engine that is widely used throughout the brand's range. It makes 382 hp and 369 lb-ft and is also complemented by an eight-speed automatic. This year, the inline-six has been bolstered by the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It adds an instantly available 11-hp boost, and brake energy recuperation is a feature of this starter/generator system. The start/stop system's functionality is enhanced, and a gliding function between 15 and 99 mph switches off the gas engine temporarily, which has obvious efficiency benefits. Most of the time, you'll be happier with accessing the full 382 hp; the M40i is fast enough to render the X3 M superfluous.

The X3 is more about sporty driving than off-roading. In our opinion, the X3 feels more solid on the road than some of BMW's sedans. It's fun to drive and takes corners relatively well for a vehicle of its height. If you're looking for something even sportier without having to upgrade to the more powerful M40i, there's the Porsche Macan. We liked the X3's firm and overall nicely balanced ride but we'd recommend opting for the optional Dynamic Damper Control adaptive suspension, which our tester sadly lacked. Included in the $1,400 Dynamic Handling Package, this system tacks on Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro driving modes. It makes an already solid ride even better for not a whole lot more money.

Unlike larger SUVs, the X3 is extremely easy to park with an impressive turning radius. Tipping the scale at around 4,150 pounds, the X3 xDrive30i is still light enough for drivers not to feel like they're driving a big rig. This translates into relatively quick acceleration, ease of maneuverability, and a truly sporty BMW feel.

Despite the addition of the 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the M40i, this model's efficiency hasn't been improved. In fact, the four-cylinder models are less efficient than they were last year. The sDrive30i returns 23/29/25 mpg city/highway/combined, down from 25/29/27 mpg in 2021. With the xDrive30i, 2022's gas mileage figures are 21/28/24 mpg, down from 23/29/25 mpg last year.

The M40i gets remarkably close to its less powerful siblings considering that it's vastly more powerful. It will return an EPA-rated 21/26/23 mpg; although it has the same combined rating as it did last year, it's now 1 mpg less efficient on the highway. Still, the M40i is better than competitors like the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 rival which manages 18/25/21 mpg.

All models have a 17.2-gallon gas tank that allows for a range of between 395 and 430 miles.

If you've sat inside one modern BMW's interior, you've sat inside them all. Fortunately, BMW hasn't crafted a poorly designed interior in some time, so the X3's cabin is as upscale, logical, and solid as expected. This year, it receives new ventilation outlets as well as controls poached from the 4 Series. It's still quite a conservative, businesslike design, but there are enough color and material choices available to breathe some life into it.

Few X3s end up in garages without at least a handful of options, but even in the base specification, it's not bereft of features. Every model comes with power-adjustable front seats with a memory function for the driver, although standard heated seats are conspicuous by their absence. Push-button start, a universal garage door opener, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming function for the interior and driver's-side exterior mirrors are all standard. The safety suite includes a rearview camera, front/rear parking sensors, active blind-spot detection, and forward-collision warning. The M40i builds on this with a fully digital instrument cluster, comfort access keyless entry, and a panoramic power moonroof. Optionally, you can add ventilated front seats, heated seats front and rear, and remote engine start.

Our X3 xDrive30i came equipped with just one optional package, the Premium Package. This includes a heated steering wheel and front seats, lumbar support, head-up display, and gesture control.

The X3 is not a big SUV but it doesn't have to be for its purpose. Accommodating up to five passengers, only two rows of seats are offered with rear passenger headroom and legroom measuring 36.4 inches. Front passengers have a comfortable 40.3 inches of the same space. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats are extremely nice to have when additional cargo space is required. Folding them is a very simple task: push a button next to the headrests and down they go. If a third row is absolutely necessary, consider the larger X5 or, better yet, the X7.

SensaTec upholstery is standard fare in the X3, as is an Anthracite headliner and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 30i models are available with Canberra Beige, Tacora Red, Cognac, or Black interior color schemes. For $1,450 more, the SensaTec seats can be replaced by Vernasca leather upholstery in colors like Black, Mocha, and Oyster, the latter two with contrast stitching. If you do select Vernasca leather, the true cost of the upgrade is much higher, as this upholstery is bundled together with Live Cockpit Pro ($900) and the Premium Package 2 ($2,600).

Dark Oak Wood, found in our tester, is standard in the 30i interior but can be replaced by aluminum, fine wood open-pored Ash Grain, or Smoke Grey aluminum rhombicle. The latter requires the expensive M Sport package upgrade, however.

The M40i also comes with SensaTec upholstery as standard but uses aluminum rhombicle trim by default. Unlike the 30i models, Cognac is an additional color scheme available for the cabin, whether in SensaTec or with the optional Vernasca leather. For $300, the standard trim inlays can be replaced by carbon fiber.

Overall, the X3's cabin is tightly screwed together and the soft-touch materials leave you with no doubt that this is a premium product.

A 3 Series may be more enjoyable to drive, but it can't match the X3 in terms of cargo capacity. Behind the rear seats, the X3 has a generous 28.7 cubic feet of space, and you can access this space conveniently via the standard power tailgate. The square shape of the cargo area is welcome, and it can swallow all your stuff with ease. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat can be tumbled to open up a space with a volume of 62.7 cubes.

Inside, the X3 is equally practical with thoughtful storage areas scattered around the cabin. The front center console is a decent size, there are four cupholders (two in front and two at the back), and a locking glovebox. All four doors have pockets for storing smaller belongings. BMW says up to seven carry-on bags can fit behind the second row. Supposedly, up to 20 bags fit when the rear seats are folded flat.

The base 30i models come with a host of comfort and convenience features. Power-adjustable seats are standard in front, and the driver also has access to a memory system for storing favored driving positions. Parking is simplified by a rearview camera, front/rear parking sensors, and a passenger-side mirror that automatically tilts down when reverse is selected. Other key standard items include multi-zone automatic climate control, push-button ignition, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power tailgate, a universal garage door opener, and a 5.1-inch display in the instrument cluster. This is upgraded to 12.3 inches in the M40i, which also adds a power panoramic sunroof and comfort access keyless entry.

BMW's standard safety suite extends to active-blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, speed limit information, and fatigue/focus alert to keep you from dozing off after long periods behind the wheel.

If all of that isn't enough, BMW will be happy to inflate the price via one of several options. Some are standalone features while others come by way of package upgrade, including gesture control, heated front/rear seats, ventilated front seats, remote start, a head-up display, a surround-view monitor, and rear manual side window shades.

Like all new BMWs, the X3 comes standard with iDrive 7.0 with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This can be activated via voice control or with the dial controller located on the center console. A 10.25-inch infotainment display comes standard (a 12.3-inch unit is optional and standard on M40i) and includes in-dash navigation, though we found the Waze App to be a more precise method for travel. Owners also receive Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Remote software upgrades are also included at no extra charge.

The standard sound system is a 12-speaker HiFi unit used throughout the range, although the M40i can be had with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system which includes two bass speakers under the front seats.

With a J.D. Power rating of 80 out of 100 (and 81/100 for quality and reliability), the X3 sounds quite reliable until you analyze the number of recalls that have taken place over the last few years. The 2022 X3 was recalled once for an internal transmission leak that could cause a vehicle rollaway, a potentially dangerous problem but one that, fortunately, only affected four units. Things were substantially worse for the 2021 model which suffered from five recalls. Besides a potential fuel tank leak, other 2021 problems included a faulty rearview camera and two problems that pertained to the hybrid model (which is no longer being sold for the 2022 model year). The 2020 model might be worth avoiding if you're buying second-hand as it was recalled 12 times.

BMW's warranty coverage matches that of its primary competition. The limited warranty runs for four years or 50,000 miles, and roadside assistance is there to assist you in an emergency for all four of those years. Finally, BMW throws in three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

It may not be entirely problem-free but the X3 will do well to shield you in the event of an accident. The NHTSA's BMW X3 review yielded a full five-star rating for overall safety, and older X3 safety reviews of this generation are also positive. These sentiments were echoed by the IIHS - the X3 scored a maximum 'Good' rating in every crashworthiness test. However, the X3 has not been able to retain the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS that it attained in 2019, a sign of more stringent crash-safety standards since the vehicle was launched.

Dual-front, dual-front-side, and head airbags are standard across the lineup. Other basic safety features include electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring, and the familiar rearview camera. Parking sensors are equipped to both ends of the body, and BMW Assist eCall is useful for alerting emergency services in the event of an accident.

BMW's Active Driving Assistant is standard. This assistant bundles together forward collision warning, active blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, and speed limit information. Post-crash-braking and fatigue/focus alert round out the standard safety specification. We'd like to see BMW start to equip adaptive cruise control as standard in its cars, however, as only the more basic dynamic cruise control is standard. The optional Parking Assistance Package combines active park distance control with a surround-view camera system, and the latest Driving Assistance Professional Package enables Level 2 partially-autonomous driving. A head-up display is available to the M40i as part of the Premium Package.

The 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i is an excellent compact luxury and sporty SUV. It may not be well-suited for tough tasks like off-roading and serious towing, but it's an extremely enjoyable vehicle to drive in both the city and on the highway. We think the xDrive30i, in particular, offers exceptional value. Like the 3 Series sedan, BMW has managed to refine its X3 formula since the model first debuted in 2003. We know that a fourth-generation model is currently in development and an all-electric variant is also on the way. What's nearly for certain is that the current model will be the last one not to offer standard electrification. A hybrid or plug-in hybrid system will become the new standard. But for now, the third-generation X3 presses on and we have no complaints about that. The X3 offers luxury and practicality, two turbocharged engine options, a fun-to-drive experience, and an upscale and comfortable cabin. Compared to rivals like the Mercedes GLC and Volvo XC60, the X3's dash layout looks somewhat conservative but its overall functionality remains solid. Buyers can't go wrong with any X3 trim. Despite its age (this generation arrived for the 2017 model year), the X3 is competent and well-suited for nearly all everyday tasks, and then some.

The 2022 BMW X3's price starts at an MSRP of $43,700 for the sDrive30i, increasing to $45,700 for the xDrive30i. If the much more powerful M40i is the one you want, it comes in at a price of $57,800. These prices all exclude a destination charge of $995 in the US. Fully loaded with every conceivable option, the BMW X3 will cost over $70,000 in M40i guise.

Our relatively basic X3 xDrive30i came with just a single option package, the Premium Package for the interior. Along with the $1,500 exterior paint color, one or two other extras, and destination fee, our X3 tester came to a grand total of $51,390, a very reasonable sum for a luxury SUV. Just to compare, a fully-loaded and slightly bigger 2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS AWD we also recently tested specced out at $50,585. You've got to wonder why a Chevy, despite being very well-equipped, costs nearly the same as a BMW.

For the 2022 model year, the new BMW X3 is sold in a choice of three trims: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, and M40i. The 30i variants use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels (sDrive30i) or all four corners (xDrive30i). In the case of the AWD M40i, there's a larger 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft. All models use an eight-speed automatic transmission as is the case with almost every other BMW on sale today. Last year, there were four configurations but the PHEV model has been discontinued.

The sDrive30i and xDrive30i only differ in terms of their drivetrain but otherwise have the same spec sheet. Both of these models come with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting, front/rear parking sensors, and a power liftgate. In the cabin, SensaTec upholstery is standard but this is upgradeable to Vernasca leather. Power-adjustable front seats, multi-zone automatic climate control, active blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, a 10.25-inch touchscreen interface, and a 12-speaker sound system are all standard.

The M40i can be distinguished by its darker exterior Shadowline trim, bigger exhaust outlets, and sportier 19-inch alloys. It also boasts a power panoramic sunroof, dual 12.3-inch displays (one for the digital gauge cluster and one for the infotainment system), comfort access keyless entry, and an adaptive M suspension.

At $1,850 in the USA, the Convenience Package for the 30i models adds comfort access keyless entry, lumbar support, and a power panoramic moonroof. One step up is the Premium 2 Package at $2,600 which packs in heated front seats, gesture control, comfort access keyless entry, a heated steering wheel, the moonroof, and lumbar support. However, this package requires adding Live Cockpit Pro for another $900 too. Speaking of Live Cockpit Pro, this adds a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and navigation. Due to the chip shortage, it's worth noting that some X3s built in late 2021 don't have touchscreens, so it's worth checking this with your dealer.

30i models come with the more conservative xLine exterior as standard, but the M Sport Package adds many of the goodies from the M40i for $4,700 such as the aerodynamic kit. The Dynamic Handling Package adds red or blue M Sport brakes, dynamic damper control, and variable steering, for $1,400.

The M40i is uniquely available with its own Premium Package at $1,600, adding heated front seats, a head-up display, and more. An M Sport differential costs $1,300 and a Harman Kardon sound system is $875. A Parking Assistance Package and Driving Assistance Professional Package with adaptive cruise control can be equipped, too, at $700 and $1,700, respectively.

Standalone options include a heated steering wheel ($190), remote engine start ($300), and heating/ventilation for the front seats ($500/$350).

If you can afford it, the X3 M40i is the one to get. It begins at $57,800 but that also gets you the more powerful turbocharged six-cylinder. For 2022, the M40i also receives a 48-volt hybrid system. If you can't swing for the M40i, then the X3 xDrive30i should be your next choice over the sDrive RWD variant. Having AWD has endless benefits, especially in rough weather conditions like snow and heavy rain. The additional traction could save you. We also highly recommend opting for the very reasonably priced $1,400 Dynamic Handling Package which, as previously noted, adds Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro driving modes. The X3 M, which is covered in a separate review, may be too extreme power- and handling-wise for many. That's why the X3 M40i, complete with the bigger engine, stronger acceleration, and M Sport suspension, is our choice.

Within BMW's SUV lineup, the X3 sits above the smaller X1. Whereas the X1 rides on a front-wheel-drive platform, the base X3 is rear-wheel drive and even the AWD X3s have a rear-biased drivetrain. The X1 comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine too but it's less powerful at 228 hp so it's slightly slower than the base X3. However, the X1 is lighter by comparison so can manage up to 27 mpg combined, whereas the best the X3 can do is 25 mpg combined. Surprisingly, it's the X1 that is better packaged; it may be smaller than the X3 but it has more legroom, more headroom, and nearly as much cargo space. At a starting price of $35,400, the X1 is over $8,000 cheaper to buy. All that being said, the X3 is a nicer SUV to drive, has a more premium interior, and looks more aggressive. We understand why the X3 costs more, but it's surprising how closely matched the X1 is on paper.

The X3 is now around the same size as the original X5. Since then, we've been introduced to four generations of the X5. Today, the midsize X5 has grown into an altogether brawnier and much more luxurious vehicle. Starting at just over $60,000, it's not cheap, but the base X5 has that lovely inline-six engine and you can also have it as a V8 in the case of the 523-horsepower M50i. The X5 justifies its higher price with an impeccable interior, dual 12.3-inch displays, a panoramic moonroof, heated front seats, and comfort access keyless entry - none of these features are standard on the base X3. To drive, the X5 is a little quieter and smoother, and it has a greater sense of occasion since it's simply a larger, more opulent vehicle overall. You can't go wrong with either of these fantastic SUVs, but we'd take an X3 M40i over the more expensive X5 sDrive40i.