Launched in 2003, the BMW X3 laid claim as one of the world’s first mid-size premium SUVs. It’s a market that has since exploded – with rivals like the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Mercedes GLC muscling in on a highly competitive segment.
All three of the X3’s main rivals have been launched, revised or replaced in the past two years, however, which left the ageing second-generation BMW feeling a little long in the tooth. But now there’s an all-new model, with a new platform, new engine and new tech – and there’s an all-electric variant on the way, too.
Our first taste of the new X3 comes courtesy of the range-topping (for now) M40i, which is powered by a 355bhp 3.0-litre straight-six. The car will also launch with a choice of 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, as well as a more powerful 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel. It’s based on the same CLAR platform as the latest 5 Series, and all UK cars will come fitted with an eight-speed automatic box and xDrive all-wheel drive as standard.
Climb inside and the 5’s influence is clear. The new X3 shares much of its interior layout and technology with the saloon, as well as its high-quality fit and finish. Granted, our top-spec M40i was laden with optional kit, but even basic diesel versions come with leather upholstery, as well as gloss black or aluminium inserts. The dash arrangement is logical and well considered, with M Sport and M40i models benefiting from BMW’s latest gesture-controlled 10.25-inch touchscreen display and Professional Navigation system. It all works well, but it’s a pity the firm still thinks it’s appropriate to charge £235 for Apple CarPlay.
While we praised the XC60 for its comfortable suspension and safe handling, the X3 manages to mix typically sharp BMW dynamics with a surprisingly pliant ride. Gone are the days where you’d have to trade comfort for outright driving fun – the new X3 offers both. Our Portuguese test route wasn’t as rough as a British B-road, but abrupt changes in elevation and the odd pothole refused to upset the car’s balance.
It’s a shame we weren’t able to drive one of the big-selling diesels, but it’s impossible to argue against the appeal of the flagship M40i. It’s hushed and refined when you’re cruising on the motorway, yet find a stretch of twisting tarmac and the turbocharged straight-six comes alive. With 355bhp, it accelerates from 0-62mph as quickly as a Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, and feels surprisingly light on its feet, too. The gearbox is quick and responsive, while lifting off the throttle will encourage pops and bangs from the twin exhausts.
The steering is well weighted and offers plenty of feedback, while the tight body control means it’s almost as fun to drive as BMW’s saloon cars. It feels even more precise than the dynamic yardstick that is the Jaguar F-Pace, which is no mean feat.
By basing the new X3 on the 5 Series’ platform, practicality has also improved. There’s plenty of room in the back for adults, even with the optional full-length panoramic roof. The 550-litre boot is smaller than you’ll find in the seven-seat Land Rover Discovery Sport, but more than spacious enough for a growing family. BMW’s benchmarking is clear, though, as the new X3 matches the GLC litre for litre – whether the seats are up or down. With everything folded flat, both cars offer 1,550 litres of space.
But by loading the new car with all the latest tech, BMW has bumped the price by more than £4,000. The cheapest X3 xDrive 20i will set you back £37,980, although like-for-like each model comes within a few hundred pounds of the equivalent Q5.
- Model: BMW X3 M40i
- Price: £50,530
- Engine: 3.0-litre 6cyl turbo petrol
- Power/torque: 355bhp/500Nm
- Transmission: Eight-speed auto, four-wheel drive
- 0-62mph: 4.8 seconds
- Top speed: 155mph
- Economy/CO2: 34.5mpg/188g/km
- On sale: November
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