Overview

THE new BMW X3 is bigger and better than before – and we should certainly hope so.

With each new model generation, the family-friendly X3 grows larger and better equipped, while on this occasion also offering a choice of drivelines well suited to the changing demands of modern buyers.

In terms of size, the X3 is now larger than the original X5 (measurements in brackets), measuring 4755mm in length (4666mm), 1920mm in width (1872mm), and 1660mm in height (1707mm), while riding upon a 2865mm wheelbase (2819mm).

Against its predecessor, the fourth generation X3 is 34mm longer, 29mm wider, and 25mm lower. Track width at the front has increased by 16mm to 1636mm on the front and by 45mm on the rear to 1681mm.

Cargo space on petrol models ranges from 570-1700 litres while the PHEV ranges from 460-1600 litres.

The newest X3 is available from $86,100 - $128,900 plus on-road costs. Given the available space, incredible technology, and top-notch safety equipment it offers by comparison, the newest X3 is something of a bargain… though perhaps not when viewed against its predecessor.

The outgoing X3 was priced from $56,870 and topped out at $114,620.

Even when you consider the improvements on offer, there is no denying the X3 is a pricey little number.

It is also dearer than its nearest competitors.

The Audi Q5 is available from $73,400, Genesis GV70 from $78,500, Lexus NX from $63,400, and Volvo XC60 from $73,990. Only the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Porsche Macan are dearer, starting at $97,500 and $94,000 respectively.

So just what do you get for your money?

For starters, there is a choice of two petrol (with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance) and one plug-in hybrid drivelines, all with standard all-wheel drive.

The range begins with the X3 20 xDrive (from $86,100) which is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit producing 140kW of power and 310Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it can acceleration from rest to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.

Combined cycle fuel consumption is listed at 7.5 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions 171 grams per kilometre.

In the middle of the pack, the X3 30e xDrive PHEV (from $104,100) combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and high-voltage battery to deliver 220kW of power and 450Nm of torque.

The model features a 19.7kWh battery which can enable an all-electric driving range of up to 91km – more than 50 per cent greater than the previous model. Charging is via an 11kW AC port with a full recharge obtained in two hours and 15 minutes.

Combined cycle fuel use is listed at 1.6 litres per 100km, CO2 emissions at 38 grams per kilometre, and the 0-100km/h time at 6.2 seconds.

Finally, and for the time being, the X3 M50 xDrive (from $128,900) tops the range with the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine ever fitted to an M Performance model, according to BMW Australia.

The 3.0-litre turbocharged ‘six’ produces 293kW of power and 580Nm of torque, accelerating the model from standstill to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds – in improvement of 0.2 seconds on the X3 M40i.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.2 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions 187 grams per kilometre.

The new design language of the BMW X3 sees Australian models feature a large split kidney grille with BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting as standard equipment. BMW’s signature twin headlights with new L-shaped light elements flank the grille, the units incorporating adaptive LED technology with matrix high beam and blue design detailing.

BMW says the “distinctive silhouette” of the new BMW X3 includes short overhangs, a roofline extending deep into the rear end and flush door handles. It complements this with “prominent” front and rear wheel arches.

The LED tail-lights contain a T-shaped graphic and three-dimensional sculpted glass lenses. These combine with a new apron to provide a strong and distinctive appearance at the rear.

Multiple exterior paints enable customers to personalise their new BMW X3, with the range featuring newly introduced Dune Grey (which reminds us a lot of Holden’s 1978 Mojave Beige). BMW Individual paints, including Frozen options, are also available.

Nineteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on the X3 20 xDrive, while the BMW X3 30e xDrive is fitted with 20-inch M light alloy wheels. The X3 M50 xDrive comes with 21-inch M light alloy wheels.

The X3 M50 xDrive is delivered as standard with M Sport Package Pro, which includes M lights Shadowline, M seat belts and M Sport brakes finished in high-gloss red. The other X3 variants can also be optioned with M Sport Package Pro.

The lighter, stiffer, and wider body is suspended by a double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear with adaptive damping across the board. Steering is electrically assisted and braking all disc.

Inside, the cabin is dominated by the high-definition BMW Curved Display, BMW Interaction Bar, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and new-look gear selector. It also has model-specific light elements in a contrasting colour in the centre console and door trims.

The seating is electrically adjustable and heated up front, with upholstery in artificial Veganza ‘leather’ (genuine leather available optionally).

The BMW X3 features the latest version of BMW iDrive, underpinned by Operating System 9. It incorporates QuickSelect, which enables functions to be activated directly without requirement to enter a sub-menu. We found it a little tricky, but would no doubt adjust to it with time.

Advanced driver assistance systems come as standard on Australian-delivered BMW X3 variants. Headline elements include front collision warning, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Lane Departure Warning, Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus with surround view camera.

It also has Live Cockpit Professional, which features BMW Head-Up Display and the Augmented View function in the control display.

Across the grade walk, we find the X3 20 xDrive as standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone climate control, six-speaker sound, acoustic glazing, a powered tailgate, Comfort Access, DAB+ digital radio reception, anti-dazzle mirrors, M headlining, M Sport steering wheel, Parking Assistant Plus, tyre pressure monitoring, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a wireless device charging pad.

The X3 30e xDrive adds 20-inch alloys, M Sport brakes, Mode 2 and 3 charging cables, Drive Recorder, rear window privacy glass, a fixed panoramic glass roof, outboard rear seat heating, steering wheel heating, front seat ventilation, a luggage compartment net, and roller sunblinds for the rear side windows.

For the flagship X3 M50 xDrive, we note standard metallic paint, 21-inch alloy wheels, a 15-speaker/750-watt harman/kardon audio system, quad exhaust outlets, M specific kidney, mirror caps and aerodynamic elements, privacy glass, and M Sport Pro package.

Optionally, the range includes an Enhancement Pack ($6000 on 20 xDrive and $4000 on 30e xDrive) including metallic paint, alarm system, panoramic glass roof (20 xDrive only), and harman/kardon sound; M Sport Pro Pack ($3000 on 20 xDrive and $2000 on 30e xDrive) including M High Gloss Shadow Line extended contents and lights, M Sport brakes, and M seatbelts; and Comfort Package ($2000 on 20 xDrive only) including second-row seat heating, rear window roller blinds, front seat ventilation, a heated steering wheel, privacy glass, and luggage compartment net.

All grades are available with a 2200kg towing pack for $2200.

Metallic paint finishes attract a $2000 surcharge. Colours include Arctic Race Blue, Black Sapphire, Dune Grey, Fire Red, M Brooklyn Grey, and Sophisto Grey. Alpine White is the only no-cost paint option.

BMW Individual colours attract a $4000 premium (Tanzanite Blue), while Frozen hues (Pure Grey) add $6000 to the bill.

Individual Merino leather upholstery, in Black over Atlas Grey or Amber over Atlas Grey, is a $4000 option on all variants, while a knitted textile dashboard upper is a $1200 option.

Australian-delivered BMW X3 M50 variants are manufactured in the United States, while the X3 20 xDrive and 30e xDrive are produced in South Africa.

Driving Impressions

BMW’s best-selling model has sold more than 3.5 million units since its initial debut, and 60,000 copies in Australia. Yes, the X3 is a popular vehicle – and one that is now bigger, better, and blistering with tech.

Tested here in base format, the X3 20 xDrive features a 48-volt assisted mild hybrid 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It offers a theoretical driving range of 866km, which based on our short drive seems entirely possible.

Weighing close to two tonnes (before adding people and fuel) means the X3 is a podgy entrant, but one that feels enthusiastic enough when using its MHEV assistance. The electric ‘boost’ aids in keeping acceleration progressive until the turbocharger comes on song, and the eight-speed auto is a treat.

With two passengers on board, we found overtaking acceptable … though with a full complement of passengers some buyers may ask for a little more.

Throttle correlation is sweetly matched to the engine response, giving the entire system a natural feel. If progressive performance matters to you, the X3 will impress. Even if it isn’t the gutsiest offering in the brochure.

Of course, the varied drive modes alter this progression to provide more (Sport) or less (Eco) response, the regenerative force of the 48-volt motor/generator offering a braking effect like shifting down a gear. Again, it’s a very natural sensation and one we think will suit well those buyers stepping up from a non-hybridised model.

Like many of BMW’s four-cylinder offerings, the 20 xDrive is rather dull to listen to – and is a little vocal when pushed to perform. Sure, it’s not meant to be a sports car, but there’s something lacking to those of us old enough to recall that sweet-sounding naturally aspirated BMW ‘six’.

As expected from run-flat tyres and a larger diameter wheel/tyre combination the ride of the X3 is a touch firm, but not overtly so. The body remains well controlled when challenged, adding confidence to a drive that is enhanced by accurate and well-assisted steering.

Driver ergonomics are very hard to fault, as has long been the case with BMW vehicles. We found the relation to the pedals and steering excellent, and the view out unobscured. Seating is comfortable and wonderfully supportive, with enough space up front for driver and passenger to sit without touching elbows.

Further back, the rear is spacious enough, though lanky teens may want for extra legroom. There is plenty of amenity here, however, with loads of storage and charging options, adjustable ventilation and even sunshades and seat heating (when optioned accordingly).

While we’ll need to await a longer stint behind the ‘wheel to deliver our final verdict, the first impressions of the BMW X3 are highly favourable. Given the fuel economy, progressive power delivery, quiet cab, and generous level of standard equipment on offer here, we doubt a longer stint with this car will see us change our mind.

Yes, the X3 is a winner – and one we reckon will continue to sell in the kind of numbers that will only further its success.